First Assignment Europe

Pre-Departure Checklist

Official Documents

Passport (official and tourist)
Visas (if required by specific country)
NATO orders and travel documents
Common Access Card (CAC)
Government Travel Card (GTC)
Driver's license (consider international permit)

Financial Preparation

Set up direct deposit for OCONUS pay
Understand COLA and other allowances
Budget for initial move expenses
Set up online banking with international access
Research currency exchange options
Notify credit card companies of overseas move

Medical & Dental

Complete overseas medical screening
Update all immunizations
Obtain copies of medical/dental records
Ensure 90-day supply of medications
Register family with EFMP if applicable
Verify TRICARE overseas coverage

Packing & Shipping

Understand HHG weight allowances
Schedule household goods shipment
Pack unaccompanied baggage (UB)
Identify pro-gear (professional equipment)
Pack weather-appropriate clothing
Review prohibited items (weapons, etc.)

Vehicle & Pets

Decide whether to ship vehicle
Complete required vehicle modifications
Obtain international driver's permit
Ensure pets have microchips
Complete required pet vaccinations
Research airline pet policies

Training & Readiness

Complete required pre-deployment training
Attend country-specific briefings
Obtain required gear/equipment
Register in DEERS for family members
Complete security clearance requirements
Review reporting instructions

Family Support Hub

Employment Opportunities

Moving overseas can impact spouse employment. Here are key resources:

SOFA Status: Understand your rights under the Status of Forces Agreement
MySECO: Military OneSource's career coaching program
Base Employment: Check with your gaining base for on-base jobs
Remote Work: Explore telework options with current or new employers
Volunteering: Great way to gain experience and build networks

More employment resources

Education for Dependents

Several schooling options are available for military children in Europe:

DoDEA Schools: Department of Defense-run schools on many bases
Local Schools: Many families choose host nation schools for immersion
Homeschooling: Popular option with many resources available
Records Transfer: Work with current school to prepare records
Special Needs: EFMP can help with special education services

More education resources

Healthcare for Families

Understanding healthcare options is crucial for family wellbeing:

TRICARE Overseas: Different from stateside coverage - enroll early
Base Clinics: Most bases have medical facilities for routine care
Local Providers: Some host nation providers accept TRICARE
Prescriptions: Get 90-day supplies before moving
Emergency Care: Know your nearest emergency facilities

More healthcare resources

Community & Connection

Building a support network makes transition easier:

Key Spouse Program: Peer support from experienced spouses
Airman & Family Readiness: Your base's central support office
Facebook Groups: Search for your base's spouse/family groups
MWR Programs: Morale, Welfare and Recreation activities
Newcomer Orientation: Attend as soon as you arrive

More community resources

Emotional & Mental Well-being

Coping with Transition

Moving overseas is exciting but can be stressful. It's normal to experience a range of emotions during this transition.

Allow yourself time to adjust
Maintain routines where possible
Stay connected with loved ones back home

Resources Available

Military OneSource: 24/7 counseling at 800-342-9647
Mental Health Clinic: Available at most bases
Chaplain Services: Confidential support regardless of faith
Online Support Groups: For military spouses and families

Cultural Adjustment

Living in a new culture has phases:

Honeymoon Phase

Everything seems exciting and new

Frustration Phase

Differences become irritating

Adjustment Phase

Finding your balance and comfort

Life in Europe

Cultural Awareness

Each European country has unique customs and social norms. Here are some general tips:

Greetings: Handshakes are common, but customs vary by country
Personal Space: Europeans often stand closer when talking
Dining: Meal times and etiquette differ across countries
Language: Learning basic phrases is appreciated
Punctuality: Being on time is generally important

Country-specific cultural guides

Transportation

Getting around in Europe is different from the U.S.:

Public Transit: Extensive and efficient in most cities
Driving: Smaller cars, manual transmissions common, different rules
Trains: Fast and convenient for travel between countries
Biking: Very popular with dedicated infrastructure
Budget Airlines: Affordable way to explore Europe

Transportation resources by country

Shopping & Groceries

On-Base Shopping

Commissary (grocery store)
BX/PX (department store)
Gas stations (often cheaper than off-base)

Local Shopping

Markets often have fresher produce
Products sold by weight (kg) not volume
Bring your own shopping bags

Shopping Tips

Shorter business hours than U.S.
Many stores closed Sundays
VAT (value-added tax) included in prices

Safety & Security

General Awareness

Be aware of your surroundings
Keep passport/ID secure but accessible
Use money belts or hidden pouches in crowds
Register travel with your base when leaving country

Emergency Information

112: Pan-European emergency number
Know location of nearest U.S. embassy
Follow force protection conditions (FPCON)
Have emergency meeting points planned

Important:

Always attend your base's security briefings upon arrival for country-specific safety information and any current threats.

Frequently Asked Questions

Shipment times vary depending on your location in Europe and time of year, but generally:

Unaccompanied baggage (UB): 2-4 weeks
Household goods (HHG) by sea: 6-12 weeks
Express shipment (if authorized): 1-2 weeks

Plan to pack essentials in your UB or bring them in checked luggage. Your local transportation office can provide more specific estimates based on your destination.

This depends on the Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) with the host nation and local labor laws. Generally:

Some countries allow SOFA-sponsored employment (on-base jobs)
Others permit limited off-base employment with proper authorization
Some restrict spouse employment entirely

Your gaining base's Family Support Center will have country-specific information. Remote work for U.S. companies is often the most flexible option.

Options for mobile service in Europe:

International Plan: Some U.S. carriers offer overseas plans, but can be expensive long-term
Local SIM Card: Often most cost-effective; phones must be unlocked
Base Providers: Some bases have contracted mobile providers with good rates
WiFi Calling: Use apps like WhatsApp over WiFi to save on costs

Check with your gaining base for recommendations on local providers.

Housing options vary by location:

On-Base Housing: Often limited, prioritized for families
Off-Base Housing: Private rentals with Overseas Housing Allowance (OHA)
Government Leased: Some locations have government-contracted housing

Your base housing office will assist with the process. Start early as housing can be competitive in some locations. Unaccompanied personnel typically live in dormitories.

Pet requirements vary by country but generally include:

Microchip (ISO 11784/11785 compliant)
Rabies vaccination (timing requirements vary)
Health certificate from USDA-accredited vet
Possible quarantine period (rare in EU countries)
Breed restrictions in some locations

Start the process early (6+ months for some countries). Your base veterinary office can provide country-specific guidance.

Considerations for vehicle shipment:

Cost: The military will ship one vehicle at government expense
Modifications: Some countries require changes (headlights, emissions)
Size: European roads and parking are smaller - large trucks may be impractical
Insurance: Must meet host nation requirements
Alternatives: Many families buy used cars locally or use public transit

Research your specific location's requirements and talk to others stationed there about their experiences.

Welcome to Your European Adventure

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