[Claim for Temporary Quarters and Subsistence Expenses]

A U.S. Geological Survey certifying officer requested an advance decision as to whether an employee was eligible for reimbursement of temporary quarters and subsistence expenses under Federal Travel Regulations. The employee had accepted a permanent position in the United States upon completion of an overseas assignment. GAO found that, since the employee's transfer was governed by Foreign Service Travel Regulations, he was not eligible for relocation expenses under Federal Travel Regulations. However, GAO determined that, under the foreign service regulations, the employee was entitled to a home service transfer allowance that provides for reimbursement of subsistence and miscellaneous expenses for employees transferring to the United States from foreign posts. Accordingly, the employee may be reimbursed for allowable relocation expenses incident to his transfer if otherwise proper.