PCS orders are an inevitable part of any service member’s career. But a PCS OCONUS to Europe adds a more complicated timeline.
There are things to consider when encountering a PCS overseas. Will you live on base or off? How will you handle currency exchange or pet transportation? Will you ship your vehicle or buy one through Military AutoSource when you arrive?
It’s a lot to consider. But no need to feel overwhelmed!
Below are some top tips for when you have PCS orders to Europe.
PCS Tip #1: Get Medical & Travel Clearance
Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) is designed for military families. The program helps with housing, educational, medical, personnel, and community support services.
Even if no one’s on EFMP, everyone in the family will get screened. This is to verify medical needs can be met overseas. Start the process as early as possible. Take care to ensure all family members see the dentist and the doctor and get necessary tests and vaccines completed for all family members.
PCS Tip #2: Get Your Passports in Order
You will need a government-issued, no-fee passport to enter countries with military bases. These include Italy, Belgium, Greece, Souda Bay, Brussels, and the Netherlands. However, this doesn’t cover a tourist passport for traveling within the country.
The DoD Directive requires all active duty and dependents to have a no-fee passport and a Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) stamp on these passports. You can get the SOFA stamp through a U.S. Military passport office.
Your government-issued passport is free once you have orders in hand. But in some places, like Italy, you’ll need a visa too. These can take several weeks or months. Visas sometimes cause a time delay during a PCS to Europe. So start the process as soon as possible!
PCS Tip #3: Decide if You’ll Store, Sell or Ship Your Vehicle
It’s easier to avoid the hassle of shipping your vehicle and buying a new or used car when you arrive. Thankfully, Military AutoSource can help you with that. We offer a convenient way to buy US-spec cars, trucks, SUVs and motorcycles at regulated military pricing.
Military AutoSource is the only DoD and Exchange-authorized new and used car-buying program. Product specialists are located on most bases overseas and work to find the right vehicle to fit your needs.
PCS Tip #4: Prep for Your Pets
Pets must be microchipped and medically cleared. All vaccinations must be up to date. This is a detailed and often costly process, so please start the process early.
Speak with your base vet as soon as they are USDA certified/approved. They have all the forms and procedures to make an OCONUS PCS with a pet go as smoothly as possible!
PCS Tip #5: Decide What You Can Buy When You Arrive
Remember, countries outside the US have different outlets and electrical setups. Buy dual voltage so you can use them in the US and Europe.
The Exchange on post is a valuable resource when considering your electronic needs. Many choose to purchase things like furniture or electronics once in Europe.
Be sure to check the airline baggage policy beforehand. You’ll want to know how many bags and what you can travel with.
PCS Tip #6: Immerse Yourself in the Culture
Research holidays, customs, language, social norms, currency, and travel in your soon-to-be new home. Be prepared for a shift in cultural expectations and to learn new things.
PCS Tip #7: Make a Bucket List to Explore Europe
One of the biggest perks of Europe is the ease of travel within various countries.
A PCS to Europe may not have been in your plans, but the travel experiences are a bucket list item for many. Take a train through the countryside. Hop on a flight to the next country over. Be prepared to immerse yourself in all Europe has to offer!
PCS Tip #8: Establish Community
Time zone differences, communication barriers, and physical and emotional distance may hit you hard. All moves are difficult. But a move to a whole new country can be especially taxing.
Establish community before you get there. Technology is a great tool! Join groups and forums. After you move, reach out if you’re having a difficult transition time.
Share with friends and family back home all you’re seeing and learning. And ask them to send some of your favorite things you’re missing!
About Military AutoSource
Military AutoSource provides a factory-direct program tailored to the unique needs of military life.
As the only Exchange and DoD authorized car-buying program, MAS is the exclusive military distributor and retailer for Audi, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, Harley-Davidson, Honda, Jeep, Lexus, Lincoln, Nissan, Ram, Toyota, and Volkswagen vehicles.
Through our program, U.S. Military, DoD civilians and contractors as well as the Diplomatic community can purchase a new or pre-owned vehicle for delivery in the US or to more than 50 overseas duty locations. Learn more about your overseas U.S. Military car-buying benefits.
