Pre Arrival

NATO UNCLASSIFIED NATO UNCLASSIFIED Click here to begin

NATO UNCLASSIFIED To continue click here Click the Esc key to exit the video NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Welcome to NATO’s ACT and HQ SACT! Your journey begins here within one of the two Strategic Commands in the Alliance. This journey will take you on an exciting and energizing Accommodations/ Finding a Home adventure into the world’s “think tank”- Headquarters, Supreme Allied Arriving from Europe Commander Transformation. Education To assist you with your journey we have provided you with some Healthcare Enrollment navigation tools that will guide you through this CD. Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel The blue table of contents, located along the left side of every Newcomer’s page provides you with instant links to the context you desire Contacts/Links to learn more about. Click on the title of the context and you Newcomer’s Package will be linked to that subject page. Security Validation Request US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT…? To continue click here Pg. 3 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Along the bottom of each page are five navigation buttons. Click on the U-turn arrow to link to the last slide you viewed Accommodations/ Finding a Home Click on the left arrow to link to the Arriving from Europe previous page. Education Healthcare Enrollment Click on the navigation button with Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel the picture of a home to be linked Newcomer’s back to the table of contents Contacts/Links Newcomer’s Package Click on the right arrow to link to Security Validation the next page. Request Click on the ? navigation button to US Customs & Vehicles send your questions to the Staff What is ACT? Training Branch Representative When finished with this page use the navigation bar to advance to the next page. Pg. 4 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED A chapter header page has been put into place at the beginning of every section. This page has special features that will help you to navigate to specific pages of interest. Accommodations/ Bold title indicate the beginning of a new section. For example, the header below Finding a Home indicates that this page is the beginning of the NATO Background section within the Arriving from Europe NATO/ACT chapter. Education To view other sections Healthcare Enrollment within the chapter Legal Affairs Handbook click on the other for Personnel radial buttons next to Newcomer’s the section you wish Contacts/Links to link to. Newcomer’s Package Click on the next arrow Security Validation navigation button Request at the bottom of the page to advance to the US Customs & Vehicles next slide within the specified section. What is ACT? Pg. 5 This information is strictly information in nature and does not , nor is it intended to , constitute legal advice or counseling NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Accommodations/ Finding a Home Arriving from Europe Education Healthcare Enrollment Located at the bottom left hand Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel corner of each page is a link to Newcomer’s Contacts/Links additional detailed information Newcomer’s Package about the topics that were Security Validation Request presented on each page. US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? To continue click here For complete information on this topic please refer to Pg. 6 pg . xx Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Accommodations/ Finding a Home Arriving from Europe Watch for the red Resource box- it marks specific resource Education points with additional information and/or alternate resource Healthcare Enrollment addresses on the internet.* Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel Newcomer’s *Provided resources and information on this CD are subject to Contacts/Links change when local regulations and policies change. Efforts are Newcomer’s Package made to keep the versions up to date. Please advise the Security Validation responsible branch or office if your experience is substantially Request different than what was described on the CD. US Customs & Vehicles Additionally, please note that external resources provided within this CD do not hold the views of NATO or its affiliates. What is ACT? To continue click here Pg. 7 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Your Tour Accommodations/ Again, welcome to our family! This CD is a snap shot of the exciting Finding a Home journey you are about to embark on and includes information you need Arriving from Europe prior to your arrival at Norfolk, Virginia as well as the information you Education will need within the first days of your arrival. Additionally, remember Healthcare Enrollment that if at any time you feel you need additional assistance click on the Legal Affairs Handbook Newcomer’s Contacts link for a list of contacts that can help you further for Personnel OR click on the and send your questions directly to the HQ SACT Newcomer’s Staff Training Branch Representative, Catherine Bell. Contacts/Links Newcomer’s Package Security Validation Request US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? Pg. 8 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Table of Contents Welcome to NATO’s ACT & HQ SACT pg 2 Healthcare Enrollment pg 68 CD Tutorial pg 3 •Healthcare Terms to Know pg 68 Purpose pg 10 •Reciprocal Healthcare Agreement pg 70 Welcome Video from DSACT pg 11 •Healthcare Eligibility and Enrollment__ _pg 72 NATO/ACT pg 12 •Dental Care__ pg 75 Accommodations/ •NATO Background pg 12 •TRICARE Contacts pg 77 Finding a Home •Command Structure/Mission/Vision____pg 16 Accommodations/ Finding a Home pg 79 Arriving from Europe •Command Strategic Plan pg 23 •Temporary Accommodations pg 79 Newcomer’s Package pg 25 •Finding a Home _pg 83 Education •Welcome to the Community pg 25 US Customs & Vehicles _pg 86 •Practical Travel Aids pg 35 •US Customs Information _pg 86 Healthcare Enrollment •Importing Pets pg 38 •Transportation Upon Arrival___________ pg 89 Legal Affairs Handbook •VISAs/Passports/SSN/ ____________ pg 40 •Purchasing/ Renting a Vehicle _ pg 91 for Personnel •Banking pg 46 •Vehicle Safety Inspection _ pg 95 •Mail pg 48 •Vehicle Insurance _ pg 97 Newcomer’s •Upon Arrival pg 50 •Vehicle Personal Property Tax pg101 Contacts/Links Security Validation pg 52 •Registering a Vehicle pg103 Newcomer’s Package Arriving from Europe pg 56 •Virginia Driver’s License pg108 •Welcome to the US pg 55 •Driving on US Bases/ Local Laws pg112 Security Validation •Culture Shock pg 57 Education pg119 Request •Language Differences pg 62 •Local Schools pg119 •Family Support Team pg 65 •University Education pg125 US Customs & Vehicles Newcomer’s Contacts/ links______ _ _pg129 Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel pg130 What is ACT? Pg. 9 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Purpose Accommodations/ •Provide HQ SACT newcomers with a basic understanding of Finding a Home HQ SACT/NATO functions and introductory information that is Arriving from Europe centric to newcomers Education Healthcare Enrollment •Provide newcomers with a pathway to complete transitional Legal Affairs Handbook information prior to their transfer to Norfolk, VA. for Personnel Newcomer’s Contacts/Links •Marks the beginning of the orientation process: familiarize Newcomer’s Package you with the vital information necessary for you to prepare for your new position. Security Validation Request US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? Pg. 10 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Welcome video from Admiral Luciano Zappata, ITN Deputy Supreme Allied Commander Transformation Accommodations/ Finding a Home Arriving from Europe Education Healthcare Enrollment Welcome message will begin Legal Affairs Handbook momentarily. for Personnel Newcomer’s Contacts/Links Newcomer’s Package Security Validation Request US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? Click the Esc key to exit the video. Pg. 11 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Accommodations/ Finding a Home NATO Background Arriving from Europe Education Healthcare Enrollment NATO/ ACT Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel Command Structure Newcomer’s Contacts/Links Newcomer’s Package Security Validation Command Strategic Plan Request US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? Pg. 12 This information is strictly information in nature and does not , nor is it intended to , constitute legal advice or counseling NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED NATO & ACT NATO Background Since the NATO Command Structure (NCS) was last promulgated in January 1999, Accommodations/ Finding a Home NATO has continued its adaptation to new challenges leading to the new political directions as set out in the Washington and Prague Summits. NATO’s further evolution Arriving from Europe away from a Cold War orientation is set out clearly in the 1999 Strategic Concept. Education Keeping with the need expressed in the Strategic Concept, this new structure is more deployable, usable and flexible and leads to the development of new Deployable Joint Healthcare Enrollment Staff Elements (DJSE) and the Reach Back Concept at the operational level. This Legal Affairs Handbook implementation is expected to be complete by the end of 2010. for Personnel Newcomer’s Our revised Command Structure is explained in the MC 324/1, The NATO Military Contacts/Links Command Structure, May 2004. Upon your arrival to HQ SACT please request the Newcomer’s Package newest version of this document. Security Validation Request US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? Pg. 13 NATO Background 1 of 3 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED NATO & ACT NATO Background Accommodations/ NATO’s membership began with just 12 nations in the North Atlantic, the U.S., Finding a Home and Canada, NATO has grown to 28 Nations from throughout Europe, the Arriving from Europe Mediterranean, and North America, with personnel providing expertise in Education land, sea and air capabilities. Healthcare Enrollment NATO’S membership now stretches from the United States and Canada, to the Legal Affairs Handbook eastern European countries of Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia South to the for Personnel Mediterranean nations of Turkey and Greece and its newest members of Newcomer’s Albania and Croatia. Contacts/Links Newcomer’s Package NATO membership is honored each year on a day of national importance, with celebrations that range from information displays in the lobby to flag raising Security Validation ceremonies and receptions with national and headquarters speakers. Flag Request raising ceremonies are rotated among member Nations, such that each member Nation is honored once every three years. US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? Pg. 14 NATO Background 2 of 3 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED NATO & ACT NATO Background- What is Transformation? Accommodations/ Transformation pro-actively addresses the critical task of capability Finding a Home improvement to ensure the Alliance meets the challenges of the current and Arriving from Europe projected security environment. The Transformation of NATO capabilities is Education comprised of closely linked functions that work together to: assess the future operating environment; identify future strategic-level joint concepts; develop Healthcare Enrollment and integrate innovative operational concepts, doctrines, organizations and Legal Affairs Handbook capabilities; experiment with new concepts and technologies; and contribute for Personnel to implementation of military capability improvements. Newcomer’s Contacts/Links These functions are grouped in the following mutually supportive and inter- Newcomer’s Package linked processes that may be modified as Transformation matures: Security Validation a. Strategic Concepts, Policy and Requirements Identification Request b. Capability Planning and Implementation c. Joint and Combined Concept US Customs & Vehicles Development, Experimentation, Assessment and Doctrine What is ACT? d. Future Capabilities Research and Technology e. Training and Education Reference MC 324/1 The NATO Military Command Structure Pg. 15 NATO Background 3of 3 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Accommodations/ Finding a Home NATO Background Arriving from Europe Education Healthcare Enrollment NATO/ ACT Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel Command Newcomer’s Structure/Mission Contacts/Links Vision Newcomer’s Package Security Validation Request Command Strategic Plan US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? Pg. 16 This information is strictly information in nature and does not , nor is it intended to , constitute legal advice or counseling NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED NATO/ ACT HQ SACT Command Structure Accommodations/ The Supreme Allied Commander Transformation (SACT) carries out roles and Finding a Home missions assigned by the North Atlantic Council/Defence Planning Committee Arriving from Europe (NAC/DPC). SACT is responsible to the NAC/DPC for the Strategic Command (SC) level Transformation of NATO in order to improve the military effectiveness and Education interoperability of the Alliance. He carries out these responsibilities consistent with Healthcare Enrollment the strategic direction of the Military Committee (MC), which has overall responsibility for all NATO Military transformation. Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel At this time, Allied Command Transformation’s command structure is undergoing an Newcomer’s Contacts/Links organizational restructuring period, which was approved by the Military Committee in April 09. ACT is transitioning from a divisional structure to a “4 pillars structure,” Newcomer’s Package with the introduction of new business processes that underpin the organization as a Security Validation key element of the effort. This implementation is expected to be completed as soon Request as feasible and practical. US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? Pg. 17 Command Structure 1 of 3 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED NATO/ ACT Mission Accommodations/ SACT’s, mission, as outlined in MC 324/1 is derived from NATO’s objectives as outlined Finding a Home in the Strategic Concept and in the MC Guidance for the Military Implementation of Arriving from Europe Alliance Strategy, MC 400/2. The Supreme Allied Commander Transformation (SACT) carries out roles and missions assigned by the North Atlantic Council/Defense Planning Education Committee (NAC/DPC) as directed by the Military Committee (MC). His missions Healthcare Enrollment include: Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel Newcomer’s Contacts/Links Newcomer’s Package Security Validation Request US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? Pg. 18 Mission and Vision 1 of 4 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED NATO/ ACT Mission Accommodations/ The missions are: Finding a Home a. Contribute to preserving the peace, security and territorial integrity of Alliance Arriving from Europe member states by leading at SC level transformation of NATO military structures, forces, capabilities, and doctrines in order to improve the military effectiveness of Education the Alliance. Healthcare Enrollment b. Conduct strategic level operational analysis in close co-operation with the Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR) to identify and priorities the type Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel and scale of future capability and interoperability requirements and to inform the Defence Planning Process Newcomer’s Contacts/Links c. Co-operate with SACEUR on integrating and synchronizing transformation efforts with operational activities and elements in order to contribute to the provision of Newcomer’s Package capable combined/joint HQs, forces and capabilities now and in the future. Security Validation d. Explore concepts, promote doctrine development, conduct experiments and Request support research and acquisition processes of new technologies through interaction with agencies/boards, as appropriate, in order to find and deliver US Customs & Vehicles improved interoperability, standardization and qualitatively transformed capabilities. What is ACT? Continue to the next page to view additional missions Pg. 19 Mission and Vision 2 of 4 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED NATO/ ACT Mission Accommodations/ Continued from page 16… Finding a Home Arriving from Europe The missions are: e. Manage the NATO commonly funded transformation programme resources and Education take account of national and multinational ventures, in order to provided timely, Healthcare Enrollment cost-effective solutions to meet operational requirements. f. Train and educate individuals to NATO common standards to provide to the Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel Alliance leaders, specialists and HQ staffs, capable of operating effectively in a combined/joint environment Newcomer’s Contacts/Links g. Establish and maintain procedures to ensure continual adaptation of organizations, concepts, resources and education to promote overall NATO transformation efforts. Newcomer’s Package h. Support SACEUR’s exercise requirements throughout planning, execution and Security Validation assessment. Request US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? Pg. 20 Mission and Vision 3 of 4 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Mission/Vision ACT Vision Accommodations/ “ACT will be NATO’s leading agent for change; enabling, facilitating and advocating Finding a Home continuous improvement of military capabilities to enhance the military interoperability, relevance and effectiveness of the Alliance.” Arriving from Europe J. N. Mattis, Education General Commander U.S. Marines Healthcare Enrollment Supreme Allied Commander Transformation Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel Newcomer’s Contacts/Links Newcomer’s Package Security Validation Request US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? Pg. 21 Mission and Vision 4 of 4 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED What is ACT? NATO Command Structure The realigned NATO Command Structure has two Strategic Commands (SC) at the strategic Accommodations/ Finding a Home level- one focused on planning and executing NATO operations and one focused on Transformation of NATO military capabilities over the full range of Alliance military missions. Arriving from Europe Education 4 Pillars of the New Structure within HQ SACT Healthcare Enrollment Strategic Plans and Policy (SPP) – develops and promotes issues of strategic importance to Legal Affairs Handbook transformation, articulates policies to direct Alliance transformation efforts and supports the for Personnel development of NATO strategic level concepts which clarify how transformation may be Newcomer’s achieved. Contacts/Links Capability Development (CD) – Has a key role in the Capability Development Process, from Newcomer’s Package identification of capability needs to the implementation of new capabilities in the Alliance. Joint Force Trainer (JFT) - directs and coordinates all ACT activities in NATO's areas of interest Security Validation to train and educate individuals and to support collective training and exercises, at all levels Request of command, to continually provide the Alliance with improved capabilities to undertake the US Customs & Vehicles full spectrum of Alliance missions. Integrated Resource Management (IRM) - maintains ACT as a strategy driven organisation by What is ACT? ensuring that the Strategic Plan drives planning, programming, resource bidding, allocation, execution and reporting. Pg. 22 Command Structure 2 of 2 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Accommodations/ Finding a Home NATO Background Arriving from Europe Education Healthcare Enrollment NATO/ ACT Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel Command Structure Newcomer’s Contacts/Links Newcomer’s Package Security Validation Request Command Strategic Plan US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? Pg. 23 This information is strictly information in nature and does not , nor is it intended to , constitute legal advice or counseling NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED What is ACT? ACT Strategic Plan Accommodations/ Finding a Home The Strategic Plan for ACT is required reading for all officers and senior NCOs within 14 days of checking into the command. The Strategic Plan describes my Commander’s Arriving from Europe intent, key areas of interest, and direction in which NATO Transformation and ACT Education Headquarters will be moving forward. It is basis for our planning, communications and Consolidated Resource Proposal and Performance Management System and will be Healthcare Enrollment incorporated into the Annual ACT Management Plan. Our actions and results will be Legal Affairs Handbook measured against these strategies to ensure synergy is gained and transformational for Personnel efforts are integrated to maintain NATO’s long-term military relevance. Newcomer’s J. N. MATTIS, Contacts/Links General, U.S. Marine Corps Newcomer’s Package Security Validation Request The Strategic Plan is located within the internal network at HQ SACT and can be viewed after you have checked into the command. US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? Pg. 24 ACT Strategic Plan 1 of 1 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Practical Travel Advise Accommodations/ Finding a Home Importing Pets Welcome to the Arriving from Europe Community Education VISAs/ Passports/ Social Healthcare Enrollment Security Number/EAD Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel Banking Newcomer Newcomer’s Contacts/Links Newcomer’s Package Security Validation Mail Request US Customs & Vehicles Package What is ACT? Upon Arrival Pg. 25 This information is strictly information in nature and does not , nor is it intended to , constitute legal advice or counseling NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Newcomer Package Welcome to the Community!- Introduction to Hampton Roads America’s First Region- Hampton Roads is rich in history. Accommodations/ Virginia is the site of the first European settlement in Finding a Home Jamestown in 1607, and then Smithfield in 1632. During your Arriving from Europe stay in Virginia you will have the opportunity to explore the area’s rich history and learn more about its stages of economic Education growth when you participate in the many tours offered Healthcare Enrollment throughout the year. Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel The military has long been a mainstay of the Hampton Roads Newcomer’s economy, and today the region holds the largest concentration Contacts/Links of military personnel in the nation, with forces stationed at Newcomer’s Package such critical defence facilities as Naval Station Norfolk (the largest naval facility in the world), Langley Air Force Base, Security Validation Oceana Naval Air Station, Little Creek Amphibious Base, Fort Request Eustis, Fort Monroe, and Fort Story, and more. In fact the total military and civilian defence-related employment in Hampton US Customs & Vehicles Roads surpasses 111,000. What is ACT? Pg. 26 Welcome to the Community 1 of 9 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Newcomer Package Welcome to the Community!- Introduction to Hampton Roads Accommodations/ The region is home to over 70,000 university and community Finding a Home college students. Specifically, the region is home to eight Arriving from Europe colleges and universities and two federal laboratories: The Education Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility, a U.S. Department of Energy facility that conducts basic and applied Healthcare Enrollment atomic research, and the National Aeronautics and Space Legal Affairs Handbook Administration’s (NASA) Langley Research Centre, an 800-acre for Personnel facility conducting research in aviation and space sciences. Newcomer’s Contacts/Links Newcomer’s Package Security Validation Request US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? Pg. 27 Welcome to the Community 2 of 9 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Newcomer Package Welcome to the Community!- Introduction to Hampton Roads Accommodations/ Hampton Roads is the fourth largest metropolitan area in Finding a Home the south-eastern United States, and the largest between Arriving from Europe Washington, D.C. and Atlanta , Georgia. The Hampton Roads region includes 17 localities. Most of these localities are Education within 50 minutes of HQ SACT while others like Williamsburg Healthcare Enrollment and York are a few hours away. Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel Newcomer’s Contacts/Links Newcomer’s Package Security Validation Request US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? Pg. 28 Welcome to the Community 3 of 9 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Newcomer Package Welcome to the Community!- Contacting your Sponsor Accommodations/ Finding a Home Each nation from the NATO member countries and PfP Arriving from Europe member countries, whom have staff members assigned to HQ SACT, take great pride in providing newcomers with the Education highest quality of service possible during their transition to Healthcare Enrollment the United States. In order to support those efforts the Staff Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel Training Branch recommends that you contact your National Newcomer’s Liaison Representative for guidance on contacting your Contacts/Links sponsor. Newcomer’s Package Security Validation Request US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? Pg. 29 Welcome to the Community 4 of 9 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Newcomer Package Welcome to the Community!- Geographic Location Headquarters, Supreme Allied Commander Transformation (HQ SACT) is located in Accommodations/ Norfolk, Virginia on the Naval Support Activity (NSA) Norfolk base. The mailing address Finding a Home is: 7857 Blandy Road, Suite 100, Norfolk, Virginia 23551-2490 The telephone number Arriving from Europe to the HQ SACT Quarterdeck is (757) 747-3400, which is monitored 24 hours a day. Education HQ SACT Newcomer Web site: www.act.nato.int/content.asp?pageid-230 Healthcare Enrollment Legal Affairs Handbook HQ SACT Directional Map view: for Personnel www.mapquest.com/maps?city=Norfolk&stateaddress=7857+Blandy+Rd&zipcode+23 Newcomer’s 551 Contacts/Links Newcomer’s Package Directions and Parking Tips from the Virginia Beach Convention and Visitors Bureau: www.vbfun.com/groupTour/directions.aspx Security Validation Request Virginia Travel Center: www.vdot.virginia.gov/travel/MAPs-defalt.asp US Customs & Vehicles Virginia History: www.historyisfun.org/1607-cycle-two.htm What is ACT? Pg. 30 Welcome to the Community 5 of 9 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Newcomer Package Welcome to the Community!- Geographic Location Accommodations/ Want to know more about Virginia? A great resource is the internet. Specifically, the Finding a Home Virginia Travel Center: www.vdot.virginia.gov/travel/MAPs-defalt.asp which Arriving from Europe includes driving maps (including scenic routes) hurricane evacuation routes, county and city maps Education Healthcare Enrollment Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel Newcomer’s Contacts/Links Newcomer’s Package Security Validation Request US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? Pg. 31 Welcome to the Community 6 of 9 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Newcomer Package Welcome to the Community!- Area Activities Beach Street USA Theme performances nightly, June through August. 17th and 25th Street Accommodations/ Finding a Home along Atlantic Ave. 757.491.7866 Arriving from Europe Boardwalk Resort area, 1st through 40th Street Virginia Beach's famous 3-mile oceanfront Education promenade is the place to see and be seen. Newly renovated, wider and prettier with larger- than-life sculptures and landscaped park areas. Healthcare Enrollment Legal Affairs Handbook Busch Gardens Williamsburg Featuring four of the world's top-rated roller coasters, for Personnel European foods and gifts, and dazzling stage shows, all set in recreated 17th-century villages. Newcomer’s Williamsburg, VA 800.772.8886 or 757.253.3350 Contacts/Links Newcomer’s Package Recreation and Entertainment Tournament Players Club Golf Course Virginia Beach Security Validation Oceanfront Cruises Offshore sport fishing Request Ocean Breeze Water Park Virginia Beach National US Customs & Vehicles Virginia Beach Sportsplex Water Country USA Harbour Tours Virginia State Parks What is ACT? Pg. 32 Welcome to the Community 7 of 9 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Newcomer Package Welcome to the Community!- Area Activities Other area attractions include: Accommodations/ Finding a Home Historical Sights Points of Interest Arriving from Europe • Norwegian Lady Statue • Historic Cape Henry Education • Lynnhaven House • Tidewater Veterans' Memorial Healthcare Enrollment • Francis Land House • Oceana Jet Landing Observation Legal Affairs Handbook • Adam Thorough good House • Mount Trashmore Park for Personnel • Upper Wolfsnare • Virginia Zoological Park Newcomer’s Contacts/Links • Yorktown Victory Centre • St. Paul's Church Newcomer’s Package • Colonial Williamsburg • Norfolk Naval Base • Jamestown • Norfolk Botanical Gardens Security Validation Request • The Christian Broadcasting Network US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? Pg. 33 Welcome to the Community 8 of 9 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Newcomer Package Welcome to the Community!- Area Activities Other area attractions include: Accommodations/ Finding a Home Museums Arriving from Europe • The Chrysler Museum • Virginia Marine Science Museum Education • MacArthur Memorial Museum • The Old Coast Guard Station Healthcare Enrollment • The Children's Museum • Contemporary Art Center of Legal Affairs Handbook • Virginia Air & Space Centre Virginia for Personnel • Virginia Living Museum Newcomer’s • Atlantic Wildfowl Heritage • Peninsula Fine Arts Centre Contacts/Links Museum • Mariners' Museum Newcomer’s Package • Nautilus National Maritime Centre • Virginia War Museum Security Validation Request Shopping • Lynnhaven Mall US Customs & Vehicles • Pembroke Mall What is ACT? • Resort Area/Hilltop • MacArthur Centre • Waterside Festival Marketplace • Williamsburg Pottery Factory • Prime Outlets, Williamsburg Pg. 34 Welcome to the Community 9 of 9 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Practical Travel Advice Importing Pets Accommodations/ Finding a Home Welcome to the Arriving from Europe Community Education VISAs/ Passports/ Social Security Number/ EAD Healthcare Enrollment Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel Banking Newcomer Newcomer’s Contacts/Links Newcomer’s Package Mail Security Validation Request US Customs & Vehicles Upon Arrival Package What is ACT? Pg. 35 This information is strictly information in nature and does not , nor is it intended to , constitute legal advice or counseling NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Newcomer Package Practical Travel Advice Introduction Accommodations/ Resource Finding a Home Where do I get information regarding travel to the United States? US Arriving from Europe Department of Homeland Security (www.dhs.gov) is charged with the security and protection of US borders. This includes overseeing agencies, such as: Education Healthcare Enrollment US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) www.cbp.gov Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS): www.uscis.gov Newcomer’s Contacts/Links Transportation Security Administration (TSA): www.tsa.gov Newcomer’s Package Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE): www.ice.gov Security Validation Request US port of entry procedures vary in accordance with the method of entry (e.g.,type of visa, visa waiver, lawful permanent resident status, US Citizen) US Customs & Vehicles Also consult the Legal Affair’s Handbook for Personnel What is ACT? For complete information on this topic please refer to Pg. 36 pg. 14-15 Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel Practical Travel Advise 1 of 2 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Newcomer Package Practical Travel Advice- Carry-on/ Checked Luggage Accommodations/ Finding a Home What are the restrictions for bringing items on the plane, Arriving from Europe in checked bags, or other shipments to the United States? Education Healthcare Enrollment What items are prohibited? Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel Consult US Customs and Border Protection Services web Newcomer’s Contacts/Links page, Travel, for detailed information on these, and many Newcomer’s Package more, questions: Security Validation Request Resource www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/Travel US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? For complete information on this topic please refer to Pg. 37 pg. 14-15 & pg. 23 Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel Practical Travel Advise 2 of 2 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Welcome to the Practical Travel ACT Community Advice Accommodations/ Finding a Home Importing Pets Arriving from Europe Education VISAs/ Passports/ Social Security Healthcare Enrollment Number/ Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel Newcomer Newcomer’s Contacts/Links Banking Newcomer’s Package Security Validation Request Mail US Customs & Vehicles Package What is ACT? Upon Arrival Pg. 38 This information is strictly information in nature and does not , nor is it intended to , constitute legal advice or counseling NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Newcomer Package Importing Pets Accommodations/ Finding a Home Can I bring my pets to the United States? YES, subject to certain restrictions. Arriving from Europe Education Where can I find information on importing my pet(s)? The US Centers Healthcare Enrollment for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Legal Affairs Handbook (http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dq/animal/faq.htm) regulates the entry of for Personnel all animals, including domesticated household “pets”, into the United Newcomer’s States. The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) is also involved in this Contacts/Links process. The USDA web site is located at: Newcomer’s Package http://www.aphis.usda.gov/import_export/index.shtml (go to “Import and Export” and then “Animal and Animal Product Import Information”). Security Validation Request Check the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) sections. US Customs & Vehicles Where can I find additional information? Speak to colleagues, NLR/PNLR What is ACT? office representatives, or contact Legal Affairs’ representatives. For complete information on this topic please refer to Pg. 39 pg. 24-25 Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel Importing Pets 1 of 1 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Practical Travel Advice Importing Pets Accommodations/ Finding a Home Welcome to the Arriving from Europe VISAs/Passports/ Social Community Education Security Number/ EAD Healthcare Enrollment Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel Banking Newcomer Newcomer’s Contacts/Links Newcomer’s Package Mail Security Validation Request US Customs & Vehicles Upon Arrival Package What is ACT? Pg. 40 This information is strictly information in nature and does not , nor is it intended to , constitute legal advice or counseling NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Newcomer Package VISAs-NATO and PfP Members of the Armed Forces Accommodations/ Finding a Home Do all travelers need a visa to enter the United States? Generally YES; however, there are some exceptions. Arriving from Europe Education As a member of the armed forces of a NATO or Partnership for Peace (PfP) nation, do I need a US visa? NO. Pursuant to the Agreement between the Parties to the North Healthcare Enrollment Atlantic Treaty Regarding the Status of their Forces (NATO SOFA), Article III, members of Legal Affairs Handbook the Armed Forces of a NATO country, and PfP nations by incorporation of the PfP SOFA, for Personnel are permitted US entry exempt from visa and passport requirements and immigration Newcomer’s inspection provided they present original National or NATO Travel Orders and Personal Contacts/Links Identity Card issued by the Sending Nation. Newcomer’s Package Security Validation Resource Request What else do I need to know? Consult the referenced pages in the Legal Affairs’ US Customs & Vehicles Handbook for Personnel ! What is ACT? For complete information on this topic please refer to Pg. 41 pg. 4-13 Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel VISAs/Passports/SSN 1 of 5 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Newcomer Package VISAs- NATO International Civilians and Dependents of ALL personnel—No matter their Status! Accommodations/ Finding a Home Do NATO international civilians need a visa? YES. NATO international civilian staff Arriving from Europe members (NICs) are required to obtain NATO-6 visas for themselves and their Education dependents prior to entering the United States as the NATO SOFA exemption to this Healthcare Enrollment requirement does not apply to their posting. Contact Civilian Human Resources for information and assistance. Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel Do my dependents need a visa? YES. Generally, all dependents (no matter the status of Newcomer’s the sponsor/staff member) should be in possession of the same visa classification as the Contacts/Links staff member in accordance with US Federal regulations. Dependents should not enter Newcomer’s Package the United States on visa waiver! Security Validation What else do we need to know? Consult the referenced pages in the Legal Affairs’ Request Handbook for Personnel ! US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? For complete information on this topic please refer to Pg. 42 pg. 4-13 Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel VISAs/Passports/SSN 2 of 5 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Newcomer Package VISAs-I-94 What is an I-94? Form I-94 is the small (white) card issued by the US Customs and Accommodations/ Border Protection (CBP) officer upon entry and serves as the controlling Finding a Home (immigration) document while in the United States. Arriving from Europe When do I receive the I-94? Each traveler—who presents a US visa for entry—will be Education provided Form I-94 “Arrival/Departure Record” upon checking-in for your flight or Healthcare Enrollment during the flight prior to landing. You must complete an I-94 for each member of Legal Affairs Handbook your family (even for young children whose visa is in a parent’s passport) and for Personnel present the form to the CBP officer at the port of entry for “inspection”. Newcomer’s Contacts/Links What does the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) inspector write on Form I- Newcomer’s Package 94? Ensure it contains the correct name, visa status and that it is issued for “duration of status” (“D/S”) (meaning length of tour)-your I-94 should be white and Security Validation should not contain an expiration date. Do not accept a green (in colour) Form I-94W Request if you are entering the United States on a NATO or “A” class visa. US Customs & Vehicles What else do I need to know? Consult the referenced pages in the Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel ! What is ACT? For complete information on this topic please refer to Pg. 43 pg. 6-10 Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel VISAs/Passports/SSN 3 of 5 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Newcomer Package Passports Accommodations/ Do all travelers need a passport to enter the United States? Generally YES; Finding a Home however, there are some exceptions. All travelers are required to present a Arriving from Europe valid passport at the US port of entry, unless there is a treaty-based exemption or other exemption under US Federal regulations, such as exists for NATO and Education PfP ‘members of the force’. Healthcare Enrollment Legal Affairs Handbook Resource for Personnel What else do I or my dependents need to know? Extensive information can be Newcomer’s Contacts/Links found in the Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel or on the web page for the US Department of Homeland Security: www.dhs.gov Newcomer’s Package Security Validation Request US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? For complete information on this topic please refer to Pg. 44 pg. 4-6 & pg. 13 Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel VISAs/Passports/SSN 4 of 5 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

Newcomer Package U.S. Social Security Number/ Employment Authorization (EAD) What is a Social Security Number (SSN)? The SSN is a nine-digit number, which Accommodations/ serves as a unique identifying number and is issued to each American citizen Finding a Home shortly after birth by the Social Security Administration (SSA). Arriving from Europe Am I eligible to apply for an SSN? YES. NATO active-duty personnel and NATO Education international civilians are eligible to apply for a SSN if they choose, but are not Healthcare Enrollment legally required to obtain one. Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel Are my dependents eligible to apply for an SSN/ EAD? Maybe. Dependent Newcomer’s family members are not eligible to apply for an SSN unless they have been Contacts/Links previously granted employment authorization (consult Legal Affairs’ Handbook Newcomer’s Package for Personnel (page 71-72) and review the NATO EAD Policy and Guidelines for Processing” at www.act.nato.int, “What is ACT?”, “Newcomers”, “Dependent Security Validation Employment”). Request How and where do I apply for an SSN? Where can I find more information? US Customs & Vehicles For answers to these, and many more questions: Consult the Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel! What is ACT? For complete information on this topic please refer to Pg. 45 pg. 70 Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel VISA/Passport/SSN 5 of 5

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Practical Travel Advice Importing Pets Accommodations/ Finding a Home Welcome to the Arriving from Europe VISAs/Passports/ Social Community Education Security Number/ EAD Healthcare Enrollment Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel Banking Newcomer Newcomer’s Contacts/Links Newcomer’s Package Mail Security Validation Request US Customs & Vehicles Upon Arrival Package What is ACT? Pg. 46 This information is strictly information in nature and does not , nor is it intended to , constitute legal advice or counseling NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Newcomer Package U.S. Banking Can I open a bank account before I arrive in Norfolk, Virginia? YES. There are Accommodations/ Finding a Home several financial institutions, of which we are aware, that will permit you to open the bank account while outside the United States and allow on-line access Arriving from Europe to your account prior to arrival. Education What types of accounts do most personnel have? Generally, most people will Healthcare Enrollment have one primary account (savings account) and a checking account. If you Legal Affairs Handbook wish to obtain a credit card, you will ordinarily have to wait until your account for Personnel has been open at least 30 days prior to applying. Newcomer’s Contacts/Links What information and documentation is ordinarily required by US financial Newcomer’s Package institutions to open an account? Consult the financial institution where you wish to open the account or the Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel for Security Validation detailed information regarding this question many other related questions. Request US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? For complete information on this topic please refer to Pg. 47 pg. 16-19 Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel U.S. Banking 1 o f1 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Practical Travel Advice Accommodations/ Importing Pets Finding a Home Welcome to the Arriving from Europe VISAs/Passports/ Social Community Education Security Number/EAD Healthcare Enrollment Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel Banking Newcomer Newcomer’s Contacts/Links Newcomer’s Package Mail Security Validation Request US Customs & Vehicles Upon Arrival Package What is ACT? Pg. 48 This content is strictly informational in nature and does not , nor is it intended to , constitute legal advice or counseling NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Newcomer Package U.S. Mail Are there limitations on what can be mailed to the United States? YES. You Accommodations/ should ensure that those items can be sent from the country in which you are Finding a Home currently living through the International Postal System, and also determine Arriving from Europe whether the items can legally be sent through the US Postal System (USPS). Education Where can I find additional information? In the Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Healthcare Enrollment Personnel, or consult the International Mail & Packages section of the USPS Legal Affairs Handbook website at: http://www.usps.com/business/international/welcome.htm or at for Personnel the USPS web site at: www.usps.gov. Newcomer’s Contacts/Links If you wish to forward your mail the following address to the HQ can be used Newcomer’s Package as a temporary address: NATO HQ SACT Security Validation 7857 Blandy Road Request Norfolk, VA 23551-2490 Attn: [YOUR NAME/BILLET CODE or NLR OFFICE] US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? For complete information on this topic please refer to Pg. 49 pg. 28 Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel Mail 1 of 1 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Practical Travel Advice Importing Pets Accommodations/ Finding a Home Welcome to the Arriving from Europe VISAs/Passports/ Social Community Education Security Number/EAD Healthcare Enrollment Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel Banking Newcomer Newcomer’s Contacts/Links Newcomer’s Package Mail Security Validation Request US Customs & Vehicles Upon Arrival Package What is ACT? Pg. 50 This information is strictly information in nature and does not , nor is it intended to , constitute legal advice or counseling NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Newcomer Package Upon Arrival What documentation/information will I need on the first day? Accommodations/ Military Personnel: Consult your sponsor and/or NLR/PNLR office for Finding a Home requirements. At a minimum, you should bring your original orders to the Military Arriving from Europe Personnel Office along with valid passports and visas for you and your authorized Education dependents, presuming you have been issued a visa. •Original birth certificates, with English translation, are required for dependent children. Healthcare Enrollment •Original marriage certificate, with English translation, is required for spouses. Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel NATO International Civilians: Contact a Civilian Human Resources representative Newcomer’s prior to arrival to learn the documentation required to apply for your NATO Contacts/Links Identification Card and your US Department of Defense Common Access (CAC) card. Newcomer’s Package Security Validation Request Resource For more information on the check-in process for military staff members, please contact your NLR, Military Personnel Office at (757) 747- US Customs & Vehicles 3654/3531/4145/3647/4143/3317; or Human Resources at (757) 747-3649/3774 What is ACT? For complete information on this topic please refer to Pg. 51 pg. 29-30 Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel Upon Arrival 1 of 1 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Accommodations/ Finding a Home Arriving from Europe Security Requirements Education Healthcare Enrollment Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel Newcomer’s Contacts/Links Newcomer’s Package Security Security Validation Clearance Validation Request US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? Pg. 52 This information is strictly information in nature and does not , nor is it intended to , constitute legal advice or counseling NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Security Clearance Validation Security Requirements Accommodations/ Staff members must have their passport and 2 picture IDs with them on the first day Finding a Home they report for duty because 1 picture ID must be left with the Quarter Deck/Security Arriving from Europe Centre (first floor) in order to receive an ESCORTED VISITOR badge (person is escorted by sponsor most of first day), and second picture ID is required to obtain all Security Education cards (must show proof that individual matches name on orders to HQ SACT). Healthcare Enrollment Additionally, in order to facilitate in-processing at HQ SACT, members should arrive at Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel the HQ with a copy of their Security Clearance Certificate. (An advance copy should be sent to the individual’s NLR as well.) Newcomer’s Contacts/Links Newcomer’s Package Resource For more information about requirements of your Security Clearance Security Validation Validation call The Security Systems Service Technical Advisor at 757-747-3559 Request US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? Pg. 53 Security Requirements 1 of 2 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Security Clearance Validation Security Requirements Accommodations/ Finding a Home For the ACT Office of Security to accept a Security Clearance, it must at a minimum contain the following information: Arriving from Europe Education 1. Date of Issue Healthcare Enrollment 2. Date of Expiration (should be dated beyond the expiration of the staff member’s tour) Legal Affairs Handbook 3. NATO or OTAN Clearance level (Should clearly state one of the following: NATO for Personnel Secret, OTAN Secret, or Cosmic Top Secret) *US personnel must have a national Newcomer’s Contacts/Links clearance. He/she will be given a NATO clearance by the US NLR upon arrival. 4. Full Name Newcomer’s Package 5. Date of Birth 6. Country of Birth Security Validation Request US Customs & Vehicles Resource Questions regarding Security Clearances and/or Identification What is ACT? credentials should be directed to the prospective Staff Member’s NLR or sponsor. Pg. 54 Security Requirements 2 of 2 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Culture Shock Welcome to the U.S. Accommodations/ Finding a Home Arriving from Europe Education Healthcare Enrollment Language Differences Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel Arriving Newcomer’s Contacts/Links Newcomer’s Package Family Support Team Security Validation Request US Customs & Vehicles from Europe What is ACT? Pg. 55 This information is strictly information in nature and does not , nor is it intended to , constitute legal advice or counseling NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Arriving from Europe Welcome to the U.S. Accommodations/ Finding a Home Whether or not this is your first time away from Arriving from Europe your country or not, you are probably thinking Education about the different aspects of living in a new culture. Most people find that they must make Healthcare Enrollment some adjustments since many things are new or Legal Affairs Handbook unfamiliar. for Personnel Newcomer’s Contacts/Links Newcomer’s Package Security Validation Request US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? Re: www.act.nato.int/content.asp?pageid=230 Pg. 56 Welcome to the US 1 of 1 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Accommodations/ Culture Shock Welcome to the U.S. Finding a Home Arriving from Europe Education Healthcare Enrollment Language Differences Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel Newcomer’s Arriving Contacts/Links Newcomer’s Package Family Support Team Security Validation Request US Customs & Vehicles from Europe What is ACT? Pg. 57 This information is strictly information in nature and does not , nor is it intended to , constitute legal advice or counseling NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Arriving from Europe Culture Shock Accommodations/ Culture shock is the process of adjusting to a new country and a new culture, which Finding a Home may be dramatically different from your own. Climate, food, and landscapes, as well Arriving from Europe as people and their ways all seem strange to you. Your English may not be as good as Education you expected. You may suffer, to an unexpected degree, from the fast pace of life and unfamiliar surroundings. Healthcare Enrollment Legal Affairs Handbook If you feel this way, do not panic. Culture shock is a normal reaction. As you become for Personnel adjusted to the U.S. culture and attitudes and begin to know your way around, you Newcomer’s will start to adapt to and understand your new surrounding and way of life. Contacts/Links Newcomer’s Package Security Validation Request US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? Re: www.act.nato.int/content.asp?pageid=230 Pg. 58 Culture Shock 1 of 4 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Arriving from Europe Culture Shock- Strategies to Help you Cope Accommodations/ Finding a Home • Make sure you know what to expect before you arrive. Read about Hampton Roads and the United States. Arriving from Europe Education • Eat well, sleep well, and take good care of yourself Healthcare Enrollment • Exercise is a great way to alleviate stress and tension. Legal Affairs Handbook • Keep in touch with your family! Before you leave, establish a for Personnel plan to contact them as soon as possible. Newcomer’s Contacts/Links When making calls from Europe to the U.S., please dial 001(country Newcomer’s Package Resource code) 757(area code) + last seven digits of the phone number. Security Validation When making or receiving calls in the local area of Hampton Roads, Request it is only necessary to dial the last seven digits of the number. For incoming calls from another U.S. state, the number is 1-757 (area US Customs & Vehicles code) + last seven digits What is ACT? Re: www.act.nato.int/content.asp?pageid=230 Pg. 59 Culture Shock 2 of 4 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Arriving from Europe Culture Shock- Strategies to Help you Cope Accommodations/ Finding a Home •When you first arrive to the U.S. find some time to walk around your new Arriving from Europe neighborhood. This may help you to learn more about your area and all that it Education has to offer. Healthcare Enrollment •Prior to departure for the U.S. there is a lot to do, but make sure that you Legal Affairs Handbook include time to relax with your family. for Personnel Newcomer’s Contacts/Links • Include children in the excitement- talk with them and include all the positive aspects of experiencing a new culture. Newcomer’s Package Security Validation Request Resource In order to help with your child’s transition you may wish to visit internet links for local Virginia schools and local activities. See the US Customs & Vehicles education section and the newcomers package section for links. What is ACT? Re: www.act.nato.int/content.asp?pageid=230 Pg. 60 Culture Shock 3 of 4 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Arriving from Europe Culture Shock- Strategies to Help you Cope Accommodations/ Finding a Home Upon arrival, sign up for ACT Newcomer’s Orientation course. Arriving from Europe Spouses are welcome to attend but require an escort by the sponsor. Within the course, many of the topics addressed in this Education CD are discussed in great detail. Healthcare Enrollment Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel Newcomer’s Contacts/Links Newcomer’s Package Security Validation Request US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? Re: www.act.nato.int/content.asp?pageid=230 Pg. 61 Culture Shock 4 of 4 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Welcome to the U.S. Accommodations/ Culture Shock Finding a Home Arriving from Europe Education Healthcare Enrollment Language Differences Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel Arriving Newcomer’s Contacts/Links Newcomer’s Package Family Support Team Security Validation Request US Customs & Vehicles from Europe What is ACT? Pg. 62 This information is strictly information in nature and does not , nor is it intended to , constitute legal advice or counseling NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Arriving from Europe Language Differences Accommodations/ Living in a society where you have to use a foreign language on a daily basis Finding a Home will be different. Here are some language differences you may encounter Arriving from Europe while in the United States: Education • You might not understand the local accent right away. Regional accents vary Healthcare Enrollment greatly in the United States. Give yourself time to get used to the local accent, and in time you will probably find yourself speaking in the same way. Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel • Americans might not understand you right away. You will also have your Newcomer’s own accent and you might use a different vocabulary. Try to speak slowly at Contacts/Links first to make sure you are understood. Do not be shy to ask others to speak Newcomer’s Package slowly if you have trouble understanding them. Security Validation Request US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? Re: www.act.nato.int/content.asp?pageid=230 Pg. 63 Language Differences 1 of 2 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Arriving from Europe Language Differences- continued Accommodations/ Rosetta Stone Language courses are offered to ACT personnel and their residing Finding a Home family members (FREE)! You and your family members can take these courses Arriving from Europe within your leisure time and from the comfort of your home computer. There are up to 30 different languages that you and your family members can learn! Education Healthcare Enrollment For more information about Language Courses- Upon arrival at ACT see the Staff Legal Affairs Handbook Training Branch for more information about how you can get started. for Personnel Newcomer’s Contacts/Links Newcomer’s Package Security Validation Request US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? Pg. 64 Language Differences 2 of 2 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Welcome to the U.S. Accommodations/ Culture Shock Finding a Home Arriving from Europe Education Healthcare Enrollment Language Differences Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel Arriving Newcomer’s Contacts/Links Newcomer’s Package Family Support Security Validation Team Request US Customs & Vehicles from Europe What is ACT? Pg. 65 This information is strictly information in nature and does not , nor is it intended to , constitute legal advice or counseling NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Arriving from Europe Family Services/ Family Support Team Accommodations/ Finding a Home The NATO Family Support Team at HQ SACT was implemented in Arriving from Europe September 2004, as NATO personnel began lengthy deployments to areas of conflict around the world. This program is designed to assists ACT Education families with a comprehensive family support system regardless of Healthcare Enrollment nationality, martial status or deployment status. Many NATO nations have established family support organizations and it is the ideals of these Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel organizations which form the basis of the NATO Family Support Team at Newcomer’s ACT. Contacts/Links Information and assistance that the Family Support Team can provide Newcomer’s Package includes: hurricane information, motorcycle information, child care Security Validation information, housing information, school information, spouse job Request information and much more. US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? Re: www.act.nato.int Pg. 66 Family Support Team 1 of 2 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Arriving from Europe Family Services/ Family Support Team Accommodations/ Our Family Support Team Finding a Home Arriving from Europe Amalia Lourdes Chalmers- +1 757-747-3294 Education Healthcare Enrollment Marta Bueno Fernandez- +1 757-892-0843 Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel Newcomer’s Maria Artigas de Benito- +1 757-215-6620 Contacts/Links Newcomer’s Package Security Validation Request US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? Re: www.act.nato.int Pg. 67 Family Support Team 2 of 2 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Healthcare terms Reciprocal Healthcare Agreement (RHCA) to Know Accommodations/ Finding a Home Arriving from Europe Healthcare Eligibility Education and Enrollment Healthcare Enrollment Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel Newcomer’s Dental Care Contacts/Links Newcomer’s Package Healthcare Security Validation Request TRICARE Contact Enrollment US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? Pg. 68 This information is strictly information in nature and does not , nor is it intended to , constitute legal advice or counseling NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Healthcare Enrollment Healthcare Terms to Know Accommodations/ Finding a Home Health Care Agreement - The Department of Defense (DoD) has agreements with several foreign countries to provide medical care to their active duty Arriving from Europe military members at military treatment facilities (MTFs) while they are in the Education United States under official orders. The extent of coverage, access of care, and any associated cost depends on the category under which the country falls. Healthcare Enrollment Legal Affairs Handbook Categories of Covered Nations- Includes North Atlantic Treaty Organization for Personnel (NATO) with Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA), Partnership for Peace (PfP) Newcomer’s with SOFA, PfP without SOFA, Reciprocal Health Care Agreement (RHCA) and Contacts/Links countries without agreements. Newcomer’s Package Security Validation Request US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? For complete information on this topic please refer to Pg. 69 pg. 66-69 Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel Healthcare Terms to Know 1 of 1 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Reciprocal Health Healthcare Care Agreements Agreement/ Terms Accommodations/ (RHCA) to Know Finding a Home Arriving from Europe Healthcare Education Eligibility and Enrollment Healthcare Enrollment Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel Newcomer’s Dental Care Contacts/Links Newcomer’s Package Healthcare Security Validation Request TRICARE Contact Enrollment US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? Pg. 70 This information is strictly information in nature and does not , nor is it intended to , constitute legal advice or counseling NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Healthcare Enrollment Reciprocal Healthcare Agreements (RHCA) What nations have Reciprocal Healthcare Agreements? Currently Canada, Accommodations/ Germany, Romania, Ukraine, and the United Kingdom have Reciprocal Finding a Home Healthcare Agreements with the United States concerning entitlement to Arriving from Europe healthcare and terms of reimbursement. These agreements vary by country, and periodically lapse or are renegotiated. Education Healthcare Enrollment Where can I obtain a copy of my nation’s Reciprocal Healthcare Agreement? Legal Affairs Handbook From your NLR or PNLR, or from Legal Affairs. If such an agreement exists, the for Personnel provisions of the agreement determine the terms of reimbursement, though Newcomer’s most agreements make MTF inpatient care available to military personnel Contacts/Links without cost (except for a minimal subsistence charge). Newcomer’s Package Where can I find additional information, Who can assist me? Consult the Security Validation Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel for detailed information and/or Legal Request Affairs’ representative for general information. US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? For complete information on this topic please refer to Pg. 71 pg. 66-69 Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel Reciprocal Healthcare Agreements (RHCA) 1 of 1 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Healthcare Terms to Reciprocal Know Accommodations/ Healthcare Finding a Home Agreements (RHCA) Arriving from Europe Healthcare Education Eligibility and Healthcare Enrollment Enrollment Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel Newcomer’s Dental Care Contacts/Links Newcomer’s Package Healthcare Security Validation Request TRICARE Contact Enrollment US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? Pg. 72 This information is strictly information in nature and does not , nor is it intended to , constitute legal advice or counseling NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Healthcare Enrollment Healthcare TRICARE Eligibility and Enrollment What is TRICARE? “TRICARE is the uniformed services health care program for Accommodations/ active duty service members and their families” Finding a Home Arriving from Europe Am I eligible to use the US military healthcare system? Are my dependents eligible to use the US military healthcare system? YES—members of the Education armed forces and their dependents are eligible for healthcare at US military Healthcare Enrollment treatment facilities (MTFs) under the same conditions and priority of care as Legal Affairs Handbook comparable personnel and dependents of the “Receiving State (i.e., the United for Personnel States) pursuant to the NATO Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA), and the PfP Newcomer’s SOFA, by incorporation. Contacts/Links Newcomer’s Package How do we establish eligibility at a MTF? Military personnel and their dependents must be enrolled in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting Security Validation System (DEERS) and present the US Department of Defense (DoD) identification Request card when visiting the MTF. US Customs & Vehicles How do we make appointments? Information is provided later in this section, or consult the Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel. What is ACT? Resource https://www.hnfs.net/common/companyInfo/What+Is+TRICARE.htm). This program is managed by the TRICARE Management Activity (www.tricare.mil). For complete information on this topic please refer to Pg. 73 pg. 66-69 Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel Healthcare Eligibility and Enrollment 1 of 2 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Healthcare Enrollment Healthcare TRICARE Eligibility and Enrollment Accommodations/ Do we have to pay for the care at a US MTF? Not if you were provided healthcare as Finding a Home an “outpatient”. Inpatients will be billed for their care, unless the active-duty staff Arriving from Europe member (sponsor) is from a nation with which the United States has a Reciprocal Education Health Care Agreement (RHCA), then the RHCA governs. Healthcare Enrollment What is an “outpatient” and what is an “inpatient” for this purpose? Legal Affairs Handbook •Outpatient is a patient who seeks care, both preventative and curative, and is simply for Personnel treated for the ailment or medical issue at a MTF and leaves the facility. Newcomer’s Contacts/Links •Inpatient is a patient who receives care and whose admission to the MTF exceeds 23 Newcomer’s Package hours, or if the patient is originally admitted as an inpatient. Security Validation How much does the care cost? Inpatient charges at an MTF are billed in accordance Request with an established DoD schedule. The charges are ordinarily billed directly to your US Customs & Vehicles nation through the Embassy or the MOD although, in the absence of a point of contact, you may receive an invoice directly from the Medical Services Office at Naval What is ACT? Medical Center Portsmouth. For complete information on this topic please refer to Pg. 74 pg. 66-69 Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel Healthcare Eligibility and Enrollment 2 of 2 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Healthcare Terms to Reciprocal Know Accommodations/ Healthcare Finding a Home Agreements (RHCA) Arriving from Europe Healthcare Eligibility Education and Enrollment Healthcare Enrollment Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel Newcomer’s Dental Care Contacts/Links Newcomer’s Package Healthcare Security Validation Request TRICARE Contact Enrollment US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? Pg. 75 This information is strictly information in nature and does not , nor is it intended to , constitute legal advice or counseling NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Healthcare Enrollment Dental Care May I receive dental care at the US military dental facility? Routine dental care at military Accommodations/ Finding a Home dental treatment facilities is available only to all active duty personnel—including international personnel—at no cost. Arriving from Europe Education Are my dependents eligible for dental care at a US military dental facility? Although dependents of NATO and PfP personnel may receive treatment on an emergent or space- Healthcare Enrollment available basis, in practical terms the military dental clinics simply do not have adequate Legal Affairs Handbook personnel and resources to currently provide such care. This policy also applies to US for Personnel military dependents. Newcomer’s Contacts/Links Newcomer’s Package Security Validation Request US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? For complete information on this topic please refer to Pg. 76 pg. 66-69 Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel Dental Care 1 of 1 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Healthcare Terms to Reciprocal Healthcare Know Agreements Accommodations/ Finding a Home Arriving from Europe Healthcare Eligibility Education and Enrollment Healthcare Enrollment Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel Newcomer’s Dental Care Contacts/Links Newcomer’s Package Healthcare Security Validation Request TRICARE Contact Enrollment US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? Pg. 77 This information is strictly information in nature and does not , nor is it intended to , constitute legal advice or counseling NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Healthcare Enrollment TRICARE Military Treatment Facilities Contact Information Where are the local US MTFs? There are nine (9) MTFs throughout the region. The two most popular ‘outpatient’ clinics for personnel and dependents are Sewells Point Branch Health Clinic located on the Accommodations/ Norfolk Naval Station in close proximity to the HQ, and Boone Clinic located on the Naval Amphibious Base, Finding a Home Norfolk (on the border of Virginia Beach). Arriving from Europe CLINIC Appointment Line Benefit Information Sewells Point Branch Health Clinic +1 (757) 953-8718 +1 (757) 953-8708 Education (Norfolk Naval Station, Norfolk) Healthcare Enrollment Boone Clinic- +1 (757) 953-8351 +1 (757) 953-8182/8183/8185 Legal Affairs Handbook (NAB Little Creek, Norfolk) for Personnel Oceana Branch Health Clinic- +1 (757) 953-3779/3929 +1 (757) 953-3933 Newcomer’s (Naval Air Station Oceana, Virginia Beach) Contacts/Links Newcomer’s Package Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, +1 (757) 953-2411 +1 (757) 953-2610/2611 (Family Practice Clinic, Portsmouth) Security Validation Request Langley 1st Medical Group- +1 (757) 255-7630 +1 (757) 225-9561/5111 (Langley Air Force Base, Hampton) US Customs & Vehicles McDonald Army Health Center- +1 (866)645-4584 +1 (757) 314-7939 (Fort Eustis, Newport News, VA) What is ACT? TRICARE Prime Clinic +1 (757) 953-6708 +1 (757) 953-6710/6711 (Chesapeake) Yorktown Branch Health Clinic +1 (757) 953-8430/8431 +1 (757) 953-8441 (Naval Weapons Station, Yorktown) For complete information on this topic please refer to pg. 66-69 Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel Pg. 78 TRICARE Contact 1 of 1 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Accommodations/ Temporary Finding a Home Accommodations Arriving from Europe Education Healthcare Enrollment Finding a Home Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel Newcomer’s Contacts/Links Accommodations/ Newcomer’s Package Security Validation Finding a Home Request US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? Pg. 79 This information is strictly information in nature and does not , nor is it intended to , constitute legal advice or counseling NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Accommodations/ Finding a Home Temporary Accommodations Before you begin looking for ANY living accommodations- ALWAYS Accommodations/ Finding a Home consult your NLR to verify national procedures regarding any Arriving from Europe temporary or permanent living accommodations. Education Is there a list of temporary housing available from the Headquarters? It is Healthcare Enrollment recommended that you contact your NLR/PNLR office or your sponsor for Legal Affairs Handbook recommendations. There are many options for temporary accommodations upon arrival. for Personnel Prices vary significantly and you may be able to negotiate a reduced price depending Newcomer’s upon the length of stay. If accommodations other than on a local military installation are Contacts/Links required, please contact your NLR/PNLR office, sponsor, or Legal Affairs for Newcomer’s Package recommendations. Security Validation Consult the Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel for a list of housing available to Request international military personnel, subject to certain restrictions, on local US military installations (please note that NATO international civilians are not eligible for these US Customs & Vehicles accommodations). What is ACT? For complete information on this topic please refer to Pg. 80 pg. 31-38 Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel Temporary Accommodations 1 of 3 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Accommodations/ Finding a Home Temporary Accommodations Navy Lodge Dam Neck Accommodations/ Finding a Home FCTCL Dam Neck Virginia Beach, VA 23461 Arriving from Europe Phone: +1 757-437-8100 - Fax: +1 757-437-1072 Education Amenities include: Free local telephone calls, hairdryer, free daily in-room coffee, ice, rollaway, free daily newspaper, Healthcare Enrollment snack vending, fully equipped kitchenette (dishes, pans, Legal Affairs Handbook etc.), cable TV(HBO), VCRs, video rental, playground, air for Personnel conditioning, FAX/Copy service, radio/clock, cribs, dining Newcomer’s table, irons/ironing boards, on-site laundry facilities. Contacts/Links Newcomer’s Package Security Validation Request US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? For complete information on this topic please refer to Pg. 81 pg. 31-38 Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel Temporary Accommodations 2 of 3 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Accommodations/ Finding a Home Temporary Accommodations Navy Lodge Little Creek Naval Amphibious Base Accommodations/ 1125 Gator Blvd. Naval Amphibious Base Norfolk, VA 23521-5000 Finding a Home Phone +1 (757) 464-6215 - Fax: +1 (757)-464-1194 Arriving from Europe Amenities include: Free local telephone calls, hairdryer, free daily in-room coffee, ice, free daily newspaper, snack vending, fully Education equipped kitchenette (dishes, pans, etc.), Cable TV(HBO), Healthcare Enrollment playground, air conditioning, FAX/Copy service, microwave, Legal Affairs Handbook radio/clock, cribs, dining table, irons/ironing boards, on-site for Personnel laundry facilities Newcomer’s Contacts/Links Navy Lodge Norfolk Naval Station Newcomer’s Package Norfolk, VA 23511-5000 Phone: +1(757)-489-2656 - Fax: +1 (757)-489-9621 Security Validation Amenities include: Free local telephone calls, highchair, free daily Request in-room coffee, ice, rollaway, free daily newspaper, snack vending, fully equipped kitchenette (dishes, pans, etc.), picnic grounds, US Customs & Vehicles playground, barbecue grills/tools, air conditioning, FAX/Copy What is ACT? service, microwave, radio/clock, cribs, dining table, irons/ironing boards, on-site laundry facilities, and four conference rooms. For complete information on this topic please refer to Pg. 82 pg. 31-38 Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel Temporary Accommodations 3 of 3 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Accommodations/ Temporary Finding a Home Accommodations Arriving from Europe Education Healthcare Enrollment Finding a Home Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel Newcomer’s Contacts/Links Accommodations/ Newcomer’s Package Security Validation Finding a Home Request US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? Pg. 83 This information is strictly information in nature and does not , nor is it intended to , constitute legal advice or counseling NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Accommodations/ Finding a Home Finding a Home Before you begin looking for living accommodations- ALWAYS consult your NLR to verify Accommodations/ national procedures regarding any temporary or permanent living accommodations. Finding a Home Arriving from Europe Any suggestions for finding permanent accommodations? Legal Affairs representatives maintain a binder of available rental housing—more than half of which is not available on the Education Internet or in newspapers as we receive the advertisements from local homeowners, or US Healthcare Enrollment military personnel, who wish to only rent to NATO and PfP personnel—highly coveted tenants! Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel Also there is a ‘notice board’ on the first deck of the Headquarters (near the Print Shop and Newcomer’s Contacts/Links Secretariat) where homes are advertised. Please note, however, the only advertisements on this board are those posted by HQ personnel—so it is very limited. Additional resources to Newcomer’s Package locate housing are: www.homerentals.net; www.rentclicks.com; www.militarybyowner.com; www.pilotonline.com (classifieds section), or directly through local real estate agent websites Security Validation Request or by visiting their offices. The local newspaper, The Virginian Pilot, publishes a “Home” section every Saturday. This publication contains classified advertisements for housing, as US Customs & Vehicles well as detailed information regarding local cities. What is ACT? Who can help me with my housing search? Your sponsor or NLR/PNLR offices are an excellent resource. You can also contact Legal Affairs representatives (+1 757 747 3228/3640 or by email Emma.Hart@act.nato.int or Kathy.Bair@act.nato.int ) who will provide guidance regarding the local area and copies of current listings from their binder of available housing. For complete information on this topic please refer to Pg. 84 pg. 31-38 Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel Finding a Home 1 of 2 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Accommodations/ Finding a Home Finding a Home - Once you have found a home… Accommodations/ What is the next step? The landlord or property manager will ask you to sign a lease Finding a Home agreement and pay a security deposit. You may also be asked to pay a nonrefundable Arriving from Europe application fee (average is $25-75)—which is standard and unless the application indicates otherwise, this is not a binding commitment to rent a particular home. Education Healthcare Enrollment DO NOT sign a lease agreement or any other document until you have had it Legal Affairs Handbook reviewed. for Personnel Newcomer’s Should I pay the deposit the landlord is requesting to hold the property? NO, this is Contacts/Links not recommended as it will likely be nonrefundable. Contact Legal Affairs Newcomer’s Package representatives. Security Validation Who reviews my lease agreement? A Legal Affairs representative will review your Request completed lease PRIOR to your signing your lease. You are required to visit Legal Affairs for an in-depth discussion since a large part of the review/discussion focuses US Customs & Vehicles on the responsibilities of a tenant (i.e., renter) and the differences in landlord/ tenant practices in Virginia in comparison to many European countries. What is ACT? For complete information on this topic please refer to pg. 31-38 Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel Pg. 85 Finding a Home 2 of 2 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Purchasing/ Transportation Leasing a Upon Arrival Accommodations/ Vehicle Vehicle Finding a Home Safety Arriving from Europe Inspection United States Customs Education Vehicle Insurance Information Healthcare Enrollment Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel Personal Property Tax Newcomer’s US Customs Contacts/Links Newcomer’s Package Registering a Vehicle Security Validation Request Virginia Drivers License &Vehicles US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? Driving on a Military Installation/ Local Laws Pg. 86 This information is strictly information in nature and does not , nor is it intended to , constitute legal advice or counseling NATO UNCLASSIFIED

US Customs & Vehicles Household Goods Shipment Accommodations/ Initial household goods shipment is permitted entry into the United States free of Finding a Home importation duties, pursuant to Paragraph 5, Article XI, NATO SOFA, as memorialized Arriving from Europe in provision 9806.00.20, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States, 19 USCA Education §1202. Healthcare Enrollment Most incoming staff members do not experience difficulties importing their Legal Affairs Handbook household goods and ordinarily do not require documentation from Legal Affairs. for Personnel Please see the Legal Affair’s Handbook for Personnel for further information and Newcomer’s requirements. Contacts/Links Newcomer’s Package Items/articles may be brought into the US for personal consumption and use of the staff member and family free of importation duties, pursuant to 9806.00.45, Security Validation Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States, 19 USCA §1202. This provision Request applies to articles/items purchased while on travel during your tour of duty. Legal Affairs can provide a “customs card” issued in your name referencing this exemption US Customs & Vehicles upon request. What is ACT? For complete information on this topic please refer to pg. 87 pg. 20-23 Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel US Customs Information 1 of 2

US Customs & Vehicles Importing a Personal Vehicle Privately-owned vehicles may be imported free of Customs duty, pursuant to Accommodations/ Paragraph 6, Article XI, NATO SOFA. Finding a Home Arriving from Europe My vehicle does not conform to US requirements, is this a problem? No, vehicles imported by NATO and PfP personnel are not required to comply with US Department Education of Transportation Federal motor vehicle safety. The environmental Healthcare Enrollment standards, including right-hand drive vehicles which are being imported temporarily in connection with a period of military duty and must be exported upon the Legal Affairs Handbook conclusion of the tour of duty. for Personnel Newcomer’s Contacts/Links So I can import my vehicle and drive it in the United States without a problem? The vehicle will have to be insured and registered with Virginia Department of Motor Newcomer’s Package Vehicle (DMV) authorities (see “Registering a Vehicle” section) prior to its operation on US or Virginia highways. If the vehicle has valid license plates from another state Security Validation Request or country, and an automobile insurance policy which is valid in Virginia, it can be driven for a period of up to 30 days from the date of the vehicle’s US arrival, but then US Customs & Vehicles must be registered pursuant to VA Code §46.2-600. What is ACT? For complete information on this topic please refer to pg. 88 pg. 20-23 Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel US Customs Information 2 of 2

NATO UNCLASSIFIED US Customs & Vehicles Transportation Upon Arrival--Renting/Purchasing a Vehicle Accommodations/ Do I need a car, or is public transportation readily available? Personal transportation Finding a Home is essential in this region. You will need to own at least one car since reliable and consistent public transportation is virtually non-existent in this area. You will likely Arriving from Europe wish to rent a car immediately upon arrival. Education Healthcare Enrollment Any tips on renting cars? In addition to shopping around for the best deal, please note that the price quoted by telephone or via the Internet by rental companies does NOT Legal Affairs Handbook include insurance to protect you in the event of an accident. Although some for Personnel automobile policies insure drivers when renting vehicles, most individuals do not have Newcomer’s such insurance upon arrival in the United States. Contacts/Links Newcomer’s Package Are reliable cars readily available for purchase? Yes, but you should educate yourself about the process of buying a car, whether new or used, prior to visiting a car lot or Security Validation buying privately from an individual. Purchasing a vehicle very soon after arrival is Request common since most staff try to avoid excessive rental car costs. US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? For complete information on this topic please refer to pg. 90 pg. 41 Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel Transportation Upon Arrival 1 of 1 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED US Customs &Vehicles Purchasing a Vehicle Any suggestions on buying a vehicle? YES, do your homework and take someone with you Accommodations/ who has recently purchased a vehicle in this region. The price of new and used vehicles in Finding a Home the United States IS negotiable at most dealers (there are a few new car dealers that have Arriving from Europe “fixed pricing”, but most are prepared to, and expect that you will, negotiate the price). Car salesmen typically place a lot of pressure to purchase a vehicle the same day you take Education it for a “test drive”—ensure that you are not rushed into this purchase. You will want to Healthcare Enrollment ensure that you are not paying more for the vehicle than it is worth. Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel New versus Used Vehicle? Does a used vehicle have a warranty similar to a new vehicle? Newcomer’s Not unless the manufacturer’s warranty remains valid, or the dealer has provided a Contacts/Links warranty at no-cost to you. In either event, you should receive documentation of the Newcomer’s Package warranty from the dealer in writing. Used cars, especially ones with high mileage, are routinely sold “As-Is”, meaning there is no warranty and no remedy once you sign the Security Validation ownership documents and drive the car away. Request Most NATO staff members prefer to purchase a used vehicle instead of a new vehicle. US Customs & Vehicles There is greater risk in purchasing a used vehicle than a new vehicle because the risk of mechanical failures increases as the car ages, so caution should be exercised, especially What is ACT? when purchasing an older vehicle. For complete information on this topic please refer to pg. 41-44 Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel Pg. 92 Purchasing/ Renting a Vehicle 1 of 3 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

NATO UNCLASSIFIED US Customs & Vehicles Purchasing a Vehicle Accommodations/ Finding a Home Where can I find additional information regarding vehicle purchases Arriving from Europe in the United States? Education Resource Consult the information brochures available on the world Healthcare Enrollment wide web about buying a used vehicle, such as Legal Affairs Handbook http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/menus/consumer/autos/buy.shtm (links to for Personnel additional publications including buying a used and new vehicle; Newcomer’s www.car-buying-strategies.com/used- Contacts/Links cars.html, www.carbuyingtips.com/used.htm. Newcomer’s Package Security Validation Also consult the Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel for additional Request information and resources, including Annexes C-1 and C-2. US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? For complete information on this topic please refer to Pg. 93 pg. 41-44 Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel Purchasing/ Renting a Vehicle 2 of 5 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

US Customs & Vehicles Leasing a Vehicle I am considering leasing a vehicle because it is cheaper than purchasing. Is this Accommodations/ Finding a Home common among international staff? NO. A lease is a legal agreement to “rent a vehicle” for a specific term (24 to 36 months are the most common). It is not always Arriving from Europe cheaper….when all expenses are factored, including certain taxes from which you Education would have been exempt if you ‘owned’ the vehicle. Healthcare Enrollment If I lease a vehicle, and then am re-assigned earlier than my original end-of-tour date, Legal Affairs Handbook am I relieved of my obligation under the contract? Generally NO. Early termination for Personnel clauses which extend to US military personnel do not apply to international military Newcomer’s personnel, unless the clause was modified during negotiations—and prior to signing. Contacts/Links Most vehicle leases have an assignment fee (charge to establish the lease) and Newcomer’s Package penalties for early termination (as much as several thousand dollars), excess mileage (amount of miles driven is more than the “allowable” miles under the agreement), Security Validation damages (even slight dents and scratches), administrative fees (if you do not Request “purchase” the car at the end of the lease), etc. You should thoroughly research US Customs & Vehicles leasing versus buying a vehicle prior to signing the lease contract. What is ACT? Consult the Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel for additional information and resources referenced therein. For complete information on this topic please refer to Pg. 94 pg. 44 Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel Purchasing / Renting a Vehicle 3 of 3

US Customs & Vehicles Vehicle Safety Inspection Accommodations/ What is a safety inspection, and do I need one? A safety inspection is Finding a Home required each year for all vehicles (and most trailers) registered in the Arriving from Europe Commonwealth of Virginia (or any other state in the United States that requires safety inspections) regardless of whether you purchased the vehicle in Education the United States or imported it. Healthcare Enrollment Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel Resource Newcomer’s Contacts/Links Where can I get my vehicle inspected? An official safety inspection station must complete this inspection. Many auto repair facilities are licensed to Newcomer’s Package conduct safety inspections and are located throughout the local cities. Consult Security Validation the following link from the Virginia State Police website for locations and Request information regarding this requirement: US Customs & Vehicles http://www.vsp.state.va.us/Safety.shtm. The Marine Corps Exchange (MCX) service station immediately outside the main gate of the HQ also conducts What is ACT? safety inspections, or you can look for the “blue” sign stating “Official Safety Inspection Station” at auto repair facilities throughout the area. More information? Consult Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel For complete information on this topic please refer to Pg. 96 pg. 47-48 Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel Vehicle Safety Inspection 1 of 1

Vehicles Vehicle Insurance Where should I purchase automobile insurance? There are many insurance companies Accommodations/ that do business in the Commonwealth of Virginia. You will want to request rate quotes Finding a Home from several companies licensed to do business in Virginia to ensure you are receiving a fair Arriving from Europe rate. Check with other staff members about the company that provides their insurance. Education Should I bring any documents from my prior insurance company? Yes, you should bring a Healthcare Enrollment certified copy of your “driving history” prior to arriving in the United States and a letter Legal Affairs Handbook from your previous insurance carrier that documents your claim history (“claim-free for Personnel letter”). Most companies require that the driving or claim history be dated within 90 days Newcomer’s of the date you secure your insurance policy. This is especially important for international Contacts/Links enlisted and junior officers who usually have greater difficulty in finding insurance at a Newcomer’s Package reasonable price. Security Validation Will I get a discount if I have good driving history? Some companies will offer discounts Request based upon the number of years you have been “accident free”. Ensure that you have provided all information requested on the insurance application. US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? For complete information on this topic please refer to Pg. 98 pg. 51-53 Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel Vehicle Insurance 1 of 3

US Customs &Vehicles Vehicle Insurance What are the insurance requirements in Virginia? In order to register your vehicle with Accommodations/ the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), you must certify that the vehicle is Finding a Home covered by Virginia minimum liability insurance requirements: Bodily injury/death of one Arriving from Europe person--$25,000; Bodily injury/death of two or more persons--$50,000; and Property damage--$20,000. Education Healthcare Enrollment What are the suggested limits as these Virginia minimum requirements seem quite low? Legal Affairs Handbook You may, of course, elect to have coverage in excess of these minimum requirements. In for Personnel fact, the limits as required by Virginia law (question above) are considered inadequate by Newcomer’s most individuals. It is strongly suggested that you research this issue—thoroughly—and Contacts/Links consider electing coverage well in excess of these minimum requirements under Virginia Newcomer’s Package law. Security Validation Request US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? For complete information on this topic please refer to Pg. 99 pg. 51-53 Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel Vehicle Insurance 2 of 3

US Customs & Vehicles Vehicle Insurance Accommodations/ Finding a Home Resource Arriving from Europe Where can I find information regarding automobile insurance in Virginia before Education I arrive? The Virginia Auto Insurance Consumers’ Guide is an excellent resource Healthcare Enrollment and is available on the Virginia (State Corporation Commission) Bureau of Insurance web site located at: Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel http://www.scc.virginia.gov/division/boi/webpages/boivaautoinsurance2b2.htm Newcomer’s . Contacts/Links Please consult the Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel for additional Newcomer’s Package information, or upon arrival to HQ SACT, contact Legal Affairs. Security Validation Request US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? For complete information on this topic please refer to Pg. 100 pg. 51-53 Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel Vehicle Insurance 3 of 3

US Customs & Vehicles Personal Property Tax What is personal property tax? Personal property tax is an annual ad-valorem tax charged Accommodations/ on your tangible moveable property (cars, motor-cycles, boats, most trailers, and similar Finding a Home items) by the city where you live. Arriving from Europe Why am I exempt from personal property taxes? The exemption from personal property Education taxes (and local vehicle registration fees) is in accordance with Article X of the NATO Status Healthcare Enrollment of Forces Agreement (SOFA), and the PfP SOFA by incorporation. This exemption however Legal Affairs Handbook does not apply to your dependents. for Personnel Newcomer’s What do I do if I receive a personal property tax bill? Do NOT ignore it! Provided that the Contacts/Links personal property tax bill is solely in the name of an exempt member (i.e., NATO/PfP Newcomer’s Package personnel), you are exempt; however, the exemption must be coordinated by Legal Affairs with local city officials if you live in Norfolk or Virginia Beach, or a letter will be provided Security Validation certifying your exemption for your mailing. Request US Customs & Vehicles Resource What is ACT? Who can assist? Legal Affairs! For complete information on this topic please refer to Pg. 102 pg. 47 Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel Personal Property Tax 1 of 1

US Customs &Vehicles Registering a Vehicle What documents do I need to register a vehicle in Virginia? If you purchased a Accommodations/ Finding a Home vehicle from a car dealer, they will ordinarily arrange the registration directly with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for you—and you are paying a fee for this Arriving from Europe service (usually $300-400)! Education If you buy a vehicle from a private owner, you will register the vehicle at Virginia Healthcare Enrollment Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) (www.dmv.state.va.us or www.dmvnow.com ). Legal Affairs Handbook Consult Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel for requirements. for Personnel Newcomer’s Where can I obtain additional information? DMV has a web page entitled “New to Contacts/Links Virginia” which contains a myriad of information regarding relocating to Virginia: Newcomer’s Package http://www.dmv.state.va.us/webdoc/moving/newva.asp, or contact Legal Affairs for guidance specific to international military personnel and dependents relocating to Security Validation the region. Request US Customs & Vehicles Also consult DMV booklets -- DMV140, “Welcome to Virginia” http://www.dmv.state.va.us/webdoc/pdf/dmv140.pdf ; and VSA86 How to Title & What is ACT? License a Motor Vehicle http://www.dmv.state.va.us/webdoc/pdf/vsa86.pdf . For complete information on this topic please refer to Pg. 104 pg.44-47 Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel Registering a Vehicle 1 of 4

US Customs & Vehicles Registering a Vehicle Accommodations/ Where is the local DMV office? There are several local DMV offices in the Hampton Finding a Home Roads area, and you can locate the office closest to your home by accessing Arriving from Europe http://www.dmv.state.va.us/exec/csc/district.asp?district=6 Do not choose “DMV Select Locations” indicated in the right-hand column at this link Education for these initial transactions, as they MUST be conducted at DMV Customer Service Healthcare Enrollment Centers. Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel Where is the closest DMV Customer Service Center to the HQ? The closest DMV Customer Service Center at 850 S. Widgeon Road, Norfolk, is located within a few Newcomer’s Contacts/Links minutes’ drive of the Headquarters, and their staff are very familiar with NATO and PfP personnel. Simply travel on I-64 east towards Virginia Beach to the Tidewater Newcomer’s Package Drive Exit (277A), go left at the first traffic light (Widgeon Road) and DMV is located Security Validation approximately two blocks on your left. Request US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? For complete information on this topic please refer to Pg. 105 pg. 44-47 Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel Registering a Vehicle 2 of 4

Vehicles Registering a Vehicle My colleague told me not to put my spouse’s name on the vehicle registration of Accommodations/ Finding a Home the car she will be driving. Why? It is highly recommended that vehicles be registered in the name of the NATO/PfP personnel as only the member is exempt Arriving from Europe from personal property tax and local vehicle registration fees. If the vehicle is Education registered in your wife’s name, or registered jointly with both of your names, the total amount of the personal property taxes and local vehicle registration fees must Healthcare Enrollment be paid. Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel Can my wife drive a vehicle that is not registered in her name? YES, provided that Newcomer’s she is listed on your insurance policy as a driver. Insurance companies require that Contacts/Links all licensed drivers living in your household be on your insurance policy, or have their Newcomer’s Package own insurance policy, so this will not present a problem. Security Validation Request US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? For complete information on this topic please refer to Pg. 106 pg. 44-47 Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel Registering a Vehicle 3 of 4

Vehicles Registering a Vehicle—Imported! I’m going to retrieve my imported vehicle, can I drive it home without registering it Accommodations/ Finding a Home at DMV? YES, if it has valid license plates/tags from another country or US state. If not, you should either register the vehicle with DMV or obtain a trip permit (consult Arriving from Europe Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel). Education How soon do I have to register my imported vehicle in Virginia? International Healthcare Enrollment military personnel and civilians are required to register their imported vehicles with Legal Affairs Handbook DMV within 30 days of the vehicle’s arrival into the United States pursuant to VA for Personnel Code §46.2-600. During that initial 30-day period, the car may be driven on Virginia Newcomer’s roadways provided it has valid license plates issued by another nation. Contacts/Links Newcomer’s Package Where can I obtain more information? Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel, or from Legal Affairs upon arrival. Security Validation Request US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? For complete information on this topic please refer to Pg. 107 pg. 44-47 Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel Registering a Vehicle 4 of 4

Vehicles Virginia Driver’s License Accommodations/ Do I need to apply for a Virginia driver’s license? NO. NATO/PfP personnel and Finding a Home dependents are not required to obtain Virginia driver’s licenses as long as they Arriving from Europe possess a valid driver’s licence from their home country pursuant to Virginia law (VA Code §46.2-307, “Nonresidents licensed under the laws of their home state or Education country”). Legal Affairs can issue a “Certificate of Reciprocity” which verifies your Healthcare Enrollment assignment at HQ SACT and references the Virginia law that permits you to drive using your valid national driver’s licenses (there is no legal requirement to have this Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel card and it is not a legal document). Newcomer’s Contacts/Links My insurance company has requested a copy of my Virginia driver’s license. I thought Virginia law allowed me to drive on my national driver’s licence? Many Newcomer’s Package insurance companies require a Virginia driver’s license to be obtained within a Security Validation certain timeframe (e.g. 30-60 days from the date of the start of the policy)—as a Request matter of business practice/policy. There are two insurance companies licensed to do business in Virginia that permit policyholders to drive on their valid national US Customs & Vehicles license. See Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel and/or contact your sponsor, NLR/PNLR office, or Legal Affairs for additional information. What is ACT? For complete information on this topic please refer to Pg. 109 pg. 49-51 Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel Virginia Driver’s License 1 of 3

Vehicles Virginia Driver’s License Accommodations/ Finding a Home If I am not required to have a Virginia driver’s license, why would I obtain one? Many staff members and dependents choose to obtain Virginia driver’s licenses for Arriving from Europe identification and insurance purposes. The issuing authority is the Virginia Education Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) (www.dmvnow.com ). Healthcare Enrollment How do I obtain a Virginia driver’s license? You will have to visit a local DMV Legal Affairs Handbook Customer Service Center, present documentation in accordance with the strict for Personnel guidelines for proof of identity, legal presence and Virginia residency (as referenced Newcomer’s on DMV Form 141 which can be found on Contacts/Links http://www.dmvnow.com/webdoc/pdf/dmv141.pdf , and also take a written and Newcomer’s Package behind-the-wheel exam. Security Validation Where can I find additional information regarding Virginia’s requirements? The Request Driver Services page on DMV’s website contains the Virginia Drivers Manual, US Customs & Vehicles sample exams, and various other sources of information regarding obtaining a Virginia driver’s license. It is highly recommended that you visit Legal Affairs for What is ACT? additional information upon arrival. For complete information on this topic please refer to Pg. 110 pg. 49-51 Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel Virginia Driver’s License 2 of 3

Vehicles Virginia Driver’s License Accommodations/ What tests will I have to take? You will have to take a two-part written exam, and a Finding a Home behind-the-wheel skills test. Arriving from Europe Education How can I prepare? You should study the Virginia Drivers Manual which is available at local DMV Customer Service Centers, or at Healthcare Enrollment http://www.dmvnow.com/webdoc/citizen/drivers/manual.asp. Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel My colleague received a Virginia driver’s license without taking a test? Newcomer’s Canadian, German or French personnel and their dependents who hold valid driver’s Contacts/Links licenses from their nations are exempt from the testing requirements based on Newcomer’s Package reciprocal driving arrangements those nations have with Virginia (holders of a Canadian, French or German driver’s license that are of a different nationality (from the Security Validation driver’s license they hold) may be afforded those privileges under those agreements). Request US Customs & Vehicles What documentation is required? Consult the Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel for What is ACT? detailed information, or contact Legal Affairs upon arrival. For complete information on this topic please refer to Pg. 111 pg. 49-51 Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel Virginia Driver’s License 3 of 3

Vehicles Driving on a U.S. Military Installation Accommodations/ Are the driving laws the same on US military installations as they are on Virginia Finding a Home highways? No, US military installations are Federal Government property; therefore the Arriving from Europe regulations thereon may, and in many instances do, exceed the laws of the state in which Education the base is located, especially with respect to ‘moving’ or traffic violations. Healthcare Enrollment How do I ensure I am following the driving laws on a military installation? Obey the Legal Affairs Handbook signs and always stop for pedestrians! The most common infractions on-base include for Personnel parking violations, not coming to a full and complete stop at “Stop” signs, and driving too Newcomer’s fast. Unless the speed limit is posted as less than 20 miles per hour (mph), do NOT exceed Contacts/Links 20 mph on an installation. Newcomer’s Package Security Validation Request US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? For complete information on this topic please refer to Pg. 113 pg. 54-55 Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel Driving on a US Military Installation / Local Laws 1 of 6

Vehicles Local Driving Laws What do I need to know about driving in Virginia? Traffic laws and speed limits vary Accommodations/ Finding a Home among US States. In the Commonwealth of Virginia, the highest posted speed limit is 65 miles per hour (mph) (approximately 105 kilometers per hour (kph)), which is Arriving from Europe found only on certain stretches of highways (major roadways). The speed limit on the Education majority of highways in Virginia is 55 mph (~ 86 kph). The permitted speed in residential areas, unless otherwise indicated, is 25 mph (~40 kph). Healthcare Enrollment Legal Affairs Handbook I understand that I can drive a certain amount over the posted speed limit and I for Personnel won’t be stopped by a law enforcement officer. Is this accurate? NO. There is a Newcomer’s common assumption that you can exceed the speed limit by a certain amount Contacts/Links without risking a traffic citation-this is ill-advised as you can be cited for speeding Newcomer’s Package when traveling only a few miles per hour over the posted limit. You can also be cited for driving too fast for weather or traffic conditions even when traveling under the Security Validation posted speed limit if the police officer considers your speed dangerous for the Request conditions. US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? For complete information on this topic please refer to Pg. 114 pg. 55-56 Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel Driving on a US Military Installation / Local Laws 2 of 6

Vehicles Local Driving Laws I understand my colleague had to go to a Virginia traffic court recently. Do all traffic Accommodations/ Finding a Home citations/violations require a Court appearance? NO. Some traffic citations can be paid in advance so you can avoid going to court. However, certain citations including Arriving from Europe reckless driving require a mandatory court appearance. Education How will I know if I have to go to Court? It should be indicated on the ‘traffic Healthcare Enrollment summons’ you will have received from the law enforcement officer. If in doubt or for Legal Affairs Handbook assistance, bring the summons to Legal Affairs. for Personnel Newcomer’s What constitutes reckless driving in Virginia? Reckless driving citations can be issued Contacts/Links for a variety of infractions; however, the majority of instances when HQ SACT Newcomer’s Package personnel have been cited for reckless driving is due to ‘speeding’. Security Validation Request US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? For complete information on this topic please refer to Pg. 115 pg. 55-56 Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel Driving on a US Military Installation / Local Laws 3 of 6

Vehicles Local Driving Laws What is considered reckless driving/speeding in Virginia? An individual can be Accommodations/ Finding a Home cited, and subsequently found guilty, under Virginia law (VA Code 46.2-862) for reckless driving when driving: (i) 20 mph or more over the speed limit when the Arriving from Europe speed limit is 30 mph or less; (ii) 60 mph or more when the speed limit is 35 mph; (iii) Education 20 mph or more over the speed limit when the speed limit is 49 mph or more; or (iv) 80 mph or more regardless of the speed limit. Healthcare Enrollment Legal Affairs Handbook What is the possible penalty for reckless driving? A guilty verdict for reckless driving for Personnel will result in a substantial fine, not to mention a likely significant increase (2 to 3 Newcomer’s times) in your insurance premium. In addition, reckless driving is a Class 1 Contacts/Links misdemeanor, which may result in revocation or suspension of your driver’s license, a Newcomer’s Package fine up to $2,500 and time in jail. Security Validation Do I need a lawyer, and can Legal Affairs’ representative recommend one? A lawyer Request is not required to represent you, however, you may wish to hire, at your own US Customs & Vehicles expense, private legal counsel to represent you in court. Legal Affairs can provide the contact information for private legal counsel upon request. Such counsel are not, in What is ACT? any way, affiliated or endorsed by this Headquarters, but are simply private legal counsel who have previously provided services for our staff. Representation fees can vary from $350 to $750 for a court appearance. For complete information on this topic please refer to Pg. 116 pg. 55-56 Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel Driving on a US Military Installation / Local Laws 4 of 6

Vehicles Local Driving Laws Accommodations/ What are Virginia laws with respect to Police, Fire, Ambulance and other Finding a Home Emergency Vehicles? Virginia law requires that drivers remove their vehicles from the lane of traffic as quickly as traffic and other highway conditions permit when an Arriving from Europe emergency vehicle (with its lights and/or sirens on) is approaching. Education Healthcare Enrollment What are Virginia seat belt and child safety seat (or restraint) devices? Generally, seat belt usage is required by all drivers, as well as passengers occupying the front Legal Affairs Handbook seat of a vehicle in the United States. for Personnel Child restraint devices are required when operating a vehicle with certain child Newcomer’s passengers. In Virginia, children under the age of 8 years of age are required to be Contacts/Links restrained in an approved restraint device (i.e., a ‘car seat’ or ‘booster seat’). Infants Newcomer’s Package (from birth to one year of age) must be placed in a rear-facing car seat in the rear seat of the vehicle. In addition to the common national restriction, current Virginia law Security Validation requires that all children under the age of 16 years of age wear a seat belt at all times Request during the operation of a vehicle regardless of location in the vehicle. US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? For complete information on this topic please refer to Pg. 117 pg. 55-56 Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel Driving on a US Military Installation / Local Laws 5 of 6

Vehicles Local Driving Laws Accommodations/ Finding a Home Resource Where can I find additional information? General information is available at the Arriving from Europe following sources: Education Healthcare Enrollment Virginia DMV web site (http://www.dmv.state.va.us/webdoc/general/safety/childsafety/fact_sheets.asp); Legal Affairs Handbook Virginia Department of Health for Personnel (http://www.vahealth.org/civp/safetyseat/inspections.asp) and the US Department of Newcomer’s Transportation (http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/CPS/safetycheck/TypeSeats/index.htm). Contacts/Links Newcomer’s Package Security Validation Request US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? For complete information on this topic please refer to Pg. 118 pg. 55-56 Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel Driving on a US Military Installation / Local Laws 6 of 6

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Accommodations/ Finding a Home Local Schools: Arriving from Europe Private and Education Public Healthcare Enrollment Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel University Newcomer’s Education Education Contacts/Links Newcomer’s Package Security Validation Request US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? Pg. 119 This information is strictly information in nature and does not , nor is it intended to , constitute legal advice or counseling NATO UNCLASSIFIED

Education Local Schools What school options are available for my children? You may choose to enroll your Accommodations/ children into the public (state-sponsored) school system at no cost or opt to place your Finding a Home child in a private school. The quality of schools varies in both the private and public Arriving from Europe sectors; a decision about the appropriate school can only be made in the light of the quality of a given school for a particular child. Education Healthcare Enrollment How are the school years/grades structured in relation to age? Legal Affairs Handbook Kindergarten: Children start school at age 5, attending “half-day” Kindergarten until for Personnel Grade 1 (Norfolk Public Schools have full-day Kindergarten) Newcomer’s Contacts/Links Elementary (or Primary) School: Grades 1 through 5 (children range in age from 6-11 Newcomer’s Package years) Security Validation Request Middle (or Intermediate or Junior High) School: Grades 6 through 8 (average age range is 12-15 years) US Customs & Vehicles High (Secondary) School: Grades 9 through 12 (average age range is 15-18 years) What is ACT? For complete information on this topic please refer to Pg. 120 pg. 61-62 Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel Local Schools 1 of 5

Education Local Schools Accommodations/ Finding a Home Am I required to provide my child’s health and immunization record when enrolling Arriving from Europe for school? YES. Immunization records must be produced for each child enrolled in public and private school. Education Healthcare Enrollment Resource Where can I find the Virginia Health form? The Virginia Health form is Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel MCH-213F which can be found at www.vbschools.com . Newcomer’s Contacts/Links Newcomer’s Package Security Validation Request US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? For complete information on this topic please refer to Pg. 121 pg. 61-62 Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel Local Schools 2 of 5

Education Local Schools- Public Schools Accommodations/ How do I choose a Public School? If you choose to place your children in public school, Finding a Home your place of residence will determine which school your child will attend. Arriving from Europe Education This is obviously an extremely important consideration when looking for housing. Healthcare Enrollment Zoning in this regard is strictly enforced unless you receive a waiver (out-of-zone) from Legal Affairs Handbook the school you would like your child to attend and from the school your child should for Personnel attend (the procedure is difficult, requires reapplying each year, and is many times Newcomer’s unsuccessful). Bus transportation is provided daily for public school students who are Contacts/Links not in a “walking zone”. Newcomer’s Package Security Validation Request US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? For complete information on this topic please refer to Pg. 122 pg. 61-62 Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel Local Schools 3 of 5

Education Local Schools- Public Schools—Special Programs I have heard of the Advanced Programs, Academies and International baccalaureate Accommodations/ Programs, what are these? Some local cities have “academy” programs where a Finding a Home student, upon application acceptance, can earn credits towards an international Arriving from Europe baccalaureate degree or a specialized area of study (medical, legal, technology, etc.). Admission to these programs is highly competitive and normally requires submission of an Education application prior to the month of March for enrollment the following September. Healthcare Enrollment Information regarding these programs can be found at the following links: Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel Resource Newcomer’s International Baccalaureate Org.: www.ibo.org Contacts/Links Virginia Beach Academy/IB Program: Newcomer’s Package High School: (Princess Anne High School) http://www.vbschools.com/curriculum/academyprog/ Security Validation Middle School (6th-8th grades): (Plaza Middle School) Request http://www.vbschools.com/curriculum/gifted/ib_pms.asp Norfolk IB Program: www.nps.k12.va.us US Customs & Vehicles (link to “Schools”, “High Schools”, “Granby High School” Middle School (6th-8th grades): What is ACT? http://ww2.nps.k12.va.us/education/school/school.php?sectionid=47 (“School of International Studies at Meadowbrook”) For complete information on this topic please refer to Pg. 123 pg. 61-62 Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel Local Schools 4 of 5

Education Local Public Schools Accommodations/ Finding a Home Resource Arriving from Europe How do I find out about the public schools in the city I intend to rent a home in? Education Here are the administrative office numbers and public school web links for the most popular cities: Healthcare Enrollment Legal Affairs Handbook Virginia Beach +1 757 263 1000 www.vbschools.com for Personnel Newcomer’s Norfolk +1 757 628 3830 www.nps.k12.va.us Contacts/Links Newcomer’s Package Chesapeake +1 757 547 1047 http://www.cpschools.com Security Validation Virginia Department of Education www.pen.k12.va.us Request US Customs & Vehicles Local Private Schools What is ACT? Virginia Council for Private Education: www.vcpe.org Virginia Association of Independent Schools: www.vais.org For complete information on this topic please refer to Pg. 124 pg. 61-62 Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel Local Schools 5 of 5

NATO UNCLASSIFIED Accommodations/ Finding a Home Local Schools: Arriving from Europe Private and Education Public Healthcare Enrollment Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel University Newcomer’s Education Education Contacts/Links Newcomer’s Package Security Validation Request US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? Pg. 125 This information is strictly information in nature and does not , nor is it intended to , constitute legal advice or counseling NATO UNCLASSIFIED

Education University Education (Post-Secondary) Do dependents ordinarily accompany the sponsor to study at US universities/colleges? Accommodations/ Finding a Home YES. In many instances, international personnel choose to have their older, dependent children come and live in the United States while they are posted to the Headquarters Arriving from Europe so their children can attend an American university or college. Education Are the fees for University/College expensive? YES. Tuition costs and fees for Healthcare Enrollment American universities, especially private institutions, can be quite expensive. Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel Where can I find additional information regarding fees? You should consult the web Newcomer’s sites of individual universities regarding the tuition and other related costs of attending Contacts/Links as well as their enrollment requirements. Newcomer’s Package What is the difference between In-State Tuition and Out-of-State Tuition? Am I Security Validation eligible for In-State Tuition? In the Commonwealth of Virginia, if a student is Request considered a “resident” and is attending a public university (one that is supported, in US Customs & Vehicles part, by State funds or subsidy), the student is eligible for in-state tuition, which reduces the cost of tuition by approximately two thirds (of the total cost). If a student is not What is ACT? self-supporting, the parent must prove ‘residency’. For complete information on this topic please refer to Pg. 126 pg. 63-64 Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel University Education 1 of 3

Education University Education (Post-Secondary) Am I considered a “resident” in Virginia? NO. The NATO SOFA, and PfP SOFA, by Accommodations/ Finding a Home incorporation, states that members of the force “shall not be considered as acquiring any right to permanent residence or domicile in the receiving State” *the United States Arriving from Europe in this instance] (Article III, Paragraph 1). Education Are tuition costs then related to residency? YES, for state-supported/sponsored Healthcare Enrollment colleges and universities. The amount of tuition is directly tied to whether the Legal Affairs Handbook (prospective) student is a “resident” or “non-resident”, (i.e., established “domicile”, or for Personnel residency). You are not considered “resident” simply by living in or ‘residing’ in Newcomer’s Virginia. Contacts/Links Newcomer’s Package In our NATO/PfP status, can we establish domicile and enjoy in-state tuition fees? Ordinarily NO. Why? There is an existing regulation in the Virginia Administrative Security Validation Code that specifically excludes individuals in “NATO-2” status from establishing Request domicile based upon the express language in the NATO SOFA, and therefore specifically US Customs & Vehicles makes such personnel and their dependents ineligible to receive in-state tuition from Virginia State colleges and universities unless another agreement or arrangement is in What is ACT? place which extends the equivalent of in-state tuition to the student. For complete information on this topic please refer to Pg. 127 pg. 63-64 Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel University Education 2 of 3

Education University Education (Post-Secondary) Can a University/College make an exception and offer in-state tuition fees? YES…a Accommodations/ university or college may extend reduced tuition rates, based upon an agreement, such as Finding a Home the agreement between this HQ and Old Dominion University (ODU), or other Arriving from Europe arrangement, on a grant or similar basis. Such reduced tuition rates aren't ordinarily extended by colleges or universities to students (or their parents) who do not meet the Education requirements, or who are otherwise expressly precluded from establishing domicile. Healthcare Enrollment Legal Affairs Handbook Who should I contact to confirm if a local university/college extends the in-state tuition for Personnel fees to me or my dependents? You should consult the Staff Officer located within the TC- Newcomer’s 520 (Strategic Engagement and Vision) Branch upon, or prior to, arrival to determine Contacts/Links whether your dependent is eligible for reduced tuition under the terms of the agreement Newcomer’s Package between this HQ and ODU, or whether there are agreements with other local education institutions for reduced tuition. Security Validation Request Where can I find additional information? Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel, contact your NLR or the responsible Staff Officer in the Strategic Engagement and Vision Branch US Customs & Vehicles (TC-520) further assistance. What is ACT? For complete information on this topic please refer to Pg. 128 pg. 63-64 Legal Affairs’ Handbook for Personnel University Education 3 of 3

NATO Links Accommodations/ Finding a Home Internet links: Arriving from Europe Allied Command Transformation: www.act.nato.int Education Naval Support Activity Norfolk (basic information regarding the base on which Healthcare Enrollment HQ SACT is located): www.cnic.navy.mil/Norfolk/index.htm Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel Navy Family Service Center (useful links and information regarding the Newcomer’s surrounding area: www.ffscnorva.navy.mil Contacts/Links Newcomer’s Package Security Validation Request US Customs & Vehicles What is ACT? Pg. 129

NATO UNCLASSIFIED HQ SACT Handbook for New Arrivals Click on the Icon to the Accommodations/ Finding a Home right to view the Legal Affairs Arriving from Europe Handbook for Personnel Education Healthcare Enrollment Click on the Icon to the right to view Legal Affairs Handbook for Personnel the NATO Handbook Newcomer’s Contacts/Links Newcomer’s Package Security Validation Request Resource If you do not have a copy of Adobe Acrobat Reader software you can US Customs & Vehicles download it here (free). What is ACT? Pg. 130 NATO UNCLASSIFIED

Pre Arrival

by Gigi Roman on Jul 21, 2009

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Pre Arrival — Presentation Transcript

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