Planning for an International Military Move
International relocation is a difficult process that takes a large amount of planning. If you are moving overseas with the military, it can get even more difficult. Being designated a Permanent Change of Station (PCS) can be extremely challenging due to the fact that you have restricted amount of time to make a required relocation. A mandatory move to a different nation is a great example of how much military personal have to sacrifice for their homeland. The good news is, the government supplies adequate opportunities to obtain help and also guidance for an international PCS.
There are a few individuals to consult after you are designated on an overseas PCS. You will need to ask a lot of specific questions about the nature of your moving and the country you are moving to. The military will most likely give you a sponsor and also a transportation officer to help you with your move. You also could get in touch with the housing office as well as the military’s family support center to ask added questions.
There are many questions that you should ask prior to your mandatory relocation. These include:
- Can you bring your family? Ask this very early since there is a due date for the authorization of kids.
- If your family can come, can they travel with you or will they have to come at another time?
- Is there a military exchange? Exactly what is readily available in the neighborhood stores in your new destination?
- What will the housing situation be at your destination? Will you need to wait long for a residence?
- Exactly what is the size and quality of the housing unit?
- What furniture is provided, as well as what do you need to you bring?
- Do you need adapters or voltage converters to utilize the electrical outlets? Are those offered to you?
- What entertainment activities are offered in the area?
Your sponsor ought to be able to help with most of these inquiries. Sadly there is not a set list of answers to these questions due to the fact that each country is so different and also the factors for your assignment can likewise change what is available to you. Study the country you are transferring to for extra info. Contact the consulate if you have certain unanswered concerns. Understand that customs laws can change frequently. Between your very own research and also you’re moving enroller’s resources, you will be able to obtain an up to date list of restrictions for the country you will be moving too.
Other Items to Think About
You should not have to worry about applying for a visa, since the government has already, most likely, provided you with one. This means that you can skip the timely application process. However there are a lot of documents you will need to bring on your international move. These include, but are not limited to, driver’s licenses, marriage certificates, birth certificates, visas, passports, medical records, and custody information if you are dealing with adopted children. You will also want to keep track of any invoices for expenses that you have, because often times the military will reimburse you, for not only your move, but also some housing costs, and vehicle relocation.
However, you should budget as if the military is not going to repay you, you never know when the payment will come, and this way you will be totally prepared for any costs that come up. Some other tips to think about are informing your family as soon as you find out of your new situation. This way they can prepare for what they need to do. Keeping your relocation as light as possible, this way you will cut down on expenses, packing time, and it will be easier to prepare if this situation happens again. But most importantly, do not be afraid to ask questions. A lot of foreign lands are very different from the United States in both laws and customs. It will only work to your benefit to learn as much as possible before becoming a resident there.
