Welcome to Your European Adventure

Congratulations on your assignment to Europe! This guide will help you and your family prepare for this exciting transition with confidence.

Pre-Departure Checklist

Everything you need to prepare for your European assignment, organized by priority.

Official Documents

  • Official passport (black cover)
  • Tourist passport (blue cover)
  • NATO travel orders
  • Common Access Card (CAC)
  • Government Travel Card (GTC)
  • Driver's license (consider international permit)

Financial Preparation

  • Set up direct deposit
  • Understand OCONUS pay and allowances
  • Create a moving budget
  • Research currency exchange options
  • Update banking information
  • Consider power of attorney

Medical & Dental

  • Complete overseas screening
  • Update all vaccinations
  • Obtain copies of medical records
  • Dental exam and any needed work
  • Vision exam and extra glasses/contacts
  • Prescription medications (90-day supply)

Packing & Shipping

  • Schedule HHG shipment
  • Prepare unaccompanied baggage
  • Pack pro-gear separately
  • Research prohibited items
  • Prepare for European weather
  • Create an essentials bag for arrival

Vehicle & Pets

  • Research vehicle shipping options
  • Obtain international driver's permit
  • Pet vaccinations and microchipping
  • Pet health certificate
  • Research airline pet policies
  • Prepare pet travel kit

Training & Readiness

  • Complete required pre-deployment training
  • Review country-specific briefings
  • Obtain any required gear
  • Register with embassy
  • Learn basic local language phrases
  • Review security protocols

Spouse & Family Support

Resources and information to help your family transition smoothly to life in Europe.

Employment Opportunities

Understanding employment options for military spouses in Europe:

  • Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) employment rights
  • Host nation labor laws and requirements
  • On-base civilian job opportunities
  • Remote work options and freelancing
  • MySECO career coaching and resources
  • Volunteer opportunities to build experience
Learn more about spouse employment →

Education for Dependents

Schooling options for children in Europe:

  • Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) schools
  • Local host nation schools
  • International schools
  • Homeschooling resources and support groups
  • Transferring school records
  • Special education services
Explore education options →

Healthcare for Families

Accessing medical care for your family overseas:

  • TRICARE Overseas program details
  • Finding providers in your area
  • Emergency care procedures
  • Prescription medication process
  • Dental care options
  • Mental health resources
Healthcare resources →

Community & Connection

Building your support network in Europe:

  • Base spouse clubs and organizations
  • Airman & Family Readiness Center programs
  • Religious and chapel services
  • Sports and recreation activities
  • Volunteer opportunities
  • Social media groups for your base
Find your community →

Additional Family Resources

Childcare Options

  • CDC (Child Development Center) on base
  • Host nation daycare facilities
  • Nanny and au pair options

Emotional Well-being

  • Military OneSource counseling
  • Support groups for military spouses
  • Cultural adjustment resources

Financial Resources

  • Spouse education and career advancement accounts
  • Financial counseling services
  • Scholarships for military spouses

Life in Europe

What to expect and how to thrive in your new European home.

Cultural Awareness

Understanding local customs and etiquette

Transportation

Navigating public transit and driving in Europe

Communication

Staying connected with family and friends

Shopping

Commissaries, local markets, and European sizing

Cultural Tips for Europe

  • Greetings vary by country - research local customs
  • Dining etiquette differs across European cultures
  • Learn basic phrases in the local language
  • Punctuality expectations vary by country
  • Dress codes tend to be more formal than in the U.S.

Quick Tips for Daily Life

Driving

Many European countries drive on the right side of the road. Research local traffic laws before driving.

Currency

Most of Europe uses the Euro, but some countries have their own currency. Always carry some cash.

Electronics

European outlets are different. Purchase adapters and check voltage requirements for your devices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to common questions about PCSing to Europe.

Shipping times vary depending on your origin and destination, but typically:

  • Unaccompanied baggage: 2-4 weeks
  • Household goods by sea: 6-10 weeks
  • Express shipment (if authorized): 1-2 weeks

Always pack essentials in your unaccompanied baggage or carry-on.

Yes, but requirements vary by country. Generally you'll need:

  • Up-to-date rabies vaccination
  • Microchip identification
  • Health certificate issued within 10 days of travel
  • Possible quarantine period depending on destination

Check with your base transportation office for specific country requirements.

Yes, several allowances may apply:

  • Overseas Housing Allowance (OHA) instead of BAH
  • Cost of Living Allowance (COLA) based on location
  • Post Allowance for high-cost areas
  • Utility and move-in housing allowances

Your finance office can provide specific details for your assignment location.

TRICARE Overseas Program (TOP) provides coverage:

  • Prime Remote for families (similar to stateside Prime)
  • Select option available with higher out-of-pocket costs
  • Most bases have medical facilities
  • Referrals required for host nation providers
  • Emergency care is always covered

Register with TRICARE Overseas as soon as you have orders.

Housing options vary by location:

  • Some bases have on-base housing available
  • Many personnel live in local communities
  • Houses/apartments are typically smaller than U.S. standards
  • Appliances may be different (smaller refrigerators, combo washer/dryers)
  • Utilities often cost more than in the U.S.

Contact your gaining base housing office for specific information.

Still have questions?

Contact your gaining base or reach out to the Air Force Personnel Center.

Contact Support

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