WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has announced a mandatory return to in-person work for employees, following President Donald Trump’s January 20, 2025, Presidential Memorandum directing federal agencies to end widespread telework arrangements.
Under the new policy, VA employees must return to their respective agency worksites on a full-time basis unless granted an exception or exemption. Political appointees, Senior Executive Service members, and supervisors with remote work arrangements within 50 miles of an agency facility must report in person by February 24, 2025, with limited options for telework.
Exceptions are available for employees with disabilities, military spouses with existing remote work arrangements, and a few other qualifying categories.
Extensions may be granted for office space shortages or IT limitations, but no new exemptions will be considered at this time. Employees who fail to comply without an approved exception or extension will be considered absent without leave and may face disciplinary action, including termination.
The VA has set deadlines for all remaining personnel: employees within 50 miles of a federal office must return by May 5, 2025, while those outside that radius must report by July 28, 2025. The transition marks a major shift in federal workforce policy, aligning with the administration’s broader push to reduce telework across government agencies.