Prior to foreign travelall DoD government personnel must complete a series of mandatory steps designed to protect national security, ensure personal safety, and maintain mission readiness. These requirements apply uniformly to active‑duty service members, civilian employees, and contractors who are authorized to travel outside the United States for official duties. Understanding each component helps travelers avoid delays, comply with Department of Defense (DoD) directives, and contribute to the overall effectiveness of overseas operations.
Introduction
The DoD’s foreign‑travel policy is rooted in several key directives, including DoD Directive 4500.01E (Defense Transportation Regulation), DoD Instruction 1300.28 (Foreign Travel), and various combatant command supplements. Before stepping onto an aircraft or crossing a border, personnel must satisfy security, health, training, and administrative prerequisites. Failure to meet any of these conditions can result in travel denial, disciplinary action, or increased risk while abroad. The following sections break down each requirement in detail, offering practical guidance for a smooth and compliant journey.
Security Clearance and Briefings ### Verification of Eligibility
All travelers must possess a current security clearance appropriate to the level of information they may encounter overseas. For most official trips, a Secret clearance is the minimum; however, missions involving classified technology, intelligence gathering, or liaison with foreign partners often require Top Secret or SCI (Sensitive Compartmented Information) eligibility.
- Check the Defense Security Service (DSS) database or your unit’s security office to confirm that your clearance is active and not expired.
- If a clearance is pending renewal, initiate the reinvestigation process at least 90 days before the planned departure date.
Pre‑Travel Security Briefings
DoD policy mandates that personnel receive a foreign travel security briefing no later than 30 days prior to departure. This briefing covers:
- Threat assessments specific to the destination country or region (e.g., terrorism, insurgency, cyber threats). - Local laws and customs that could affect personal conduct or legal status.
- Procedures for reporting suspicious activity or security incidents while abroad.
- Guidance on handling classified material, including storage, transmission, and destruction protocols.
The briefing is typically delivered by the unit’s security manager, a designated antiterrorism officer, or through the DoD’s Joint Knowledge Online (JKO) platform. Completion is recorded in the traveler’s training record, and a copy of the briefing summary must be retained for inspection.
Anti‑Terrorism and Force Protection Training
Level I Antiterrorism Awareness
Every DoD traveler must complete Level I Antiterrorism Awareness Training (AT Level I) before any foreign trip. This online course, available via JKO, teaches:
- Recognition of common terrorist tactics (e.g., improvised explosive devices, suicide bombings, active shooter scenarios).
- Personal protective measures, such as varying routes, maintaining situational awareness, and using secure communications.
- Immediate actions to take during an attack, including evacuation, shelter‑in‑place, and first‑aid basics.
The certification is valid for 12 months; travelers must refresh the training if their certificate has expired.
Level II Antiterrorism Training (When Required)
Personnel assigned to high‑threat environments or those who will be in close proximity to senior leaders may need Level II Antiterrorism Training. This more intensive course includes practical exercises, weapons familiarization (where authorized), and advanced threat‑analysis techniques. Coordination with the unit’s antiterrorism officer determines whether Level II is required.
Health and Medical Preparations
Medical Clearance Before overseas travel, all DoD personnel must obtain a medical clearance from their designated military treatment facility (MTF) or authorized civilian provider. The clearance verifies that the individual is fit for duty and does not have contagious conditions that could endanger others. Key components include:
- Review of immunization records (see below).
- Assessment of chronic conditions that may require medication or special accommodations abroad.
- Mental health screening, especially for deployments to high‑stress locations.
Immunizations and Prophylaxis The DoD follows the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) travel health guidelines, supplemented by combatant command requirements. Typical immunizations for foreign travel include:
- Routine vaccines (e.g., MMR, Tdap, varicella, influenza). - Destination‑specific vaccines such as hepatitis A/B, typhoid, yellow fever, Japanese encephalitis, and rabies.
- Malaria prophylaxis when traveling to endemic regions, with medication selection based on local resistance patterns.
Travelers must receive vaccinations at least two weeks before departure to allow immunity to develop. Documentation of all shots must be carried in the International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP) (commonly known as the “yellow card”) and presented at customs or medical facilities overseas if requested.
Travel Health Kit
DoD guidance recommends packing a personal travel health kit containing:
- Prescription medications in original labeling, with enough supply for the trip plus an extra week.
- Over‑the‑counter remedies for pain, fever, diarrhea, and allergies.
- Basic first‑aid supplies (bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers).
- Water purification tablets or a portable filter, if operating in austere environments.
Travel Authorization and Documentation
DD Form 2627 (Request for Official Passport)
Personnel who do not already possess an official or no‑fee passport must submit a DD Form 2627 through their servicing passport office. Processing times vary; therefore, the request should be initiated no less than 60 days before travel. ### Travel Orders and Authorization
All foreign travel must be covered by a valid travel authorization (often DD Form 1610 or a combatant command‑specific travel request). The authorization outlines:
- Purpose of the trip (e.g., training, liaison, humanitarian assistance).
- Approved itinerary, including layovers and transit points.
- Funding source and per‑diem rates.
- Any special permissions, such as clearance to carry weapons or classified equipment.
The authorizing official (usually a squadron commander, civilian supervisor, or contracting officer) must sign the order before the traveler can purchase tickets or incur expenses.
Customs and Entry Requirements
Travelers must research the entry requirements of each destination country, which may include visas, tourist cards, or special permits. The DoD’s Foreign Clearance Guide (FCG), accessible via the Defense Travel Management Office (DTMO) website, provides up‑to‑date information on:
- Visa types and application procedures.
- Length of stay permitted without a visa.
- Restrictions on certain items (e.g., firearms, satellite phones
Health and Safety Considerations
Beyond vaccinations and basic medical supplies, travelers should be aware of potential health risks specific to their destinations. This includes understanding local disease prevalence and practicing preventative measures. For instance, in regions with high mosquito populations, using insect repellent and wearing protective clothing is crucial to minimize the risk of mosquito-borne illnesses like Zika virus and dengue fever. Food safety is also paramount; travelers should avoid street food from vendors with questionable hygiene practices and choose restaurants that adhere to established food safety standards.
Furthermore, it's essential to be aware of cultural norms regarding personal space, hygiene, and appropriate behavior. Respecting local customs can significantly enhance the travel experience and prevent misunderstandings.
Emergency Preparedness
In the event of an emergency, knowing how to access medical care is vital. Understanding the local emergency contact numbers, including police, fire, and ambulance services, is essential. Furthermore, familiarizing oneself with the location of hospitals and clinics, and having a plan for evacuation, can be life-saving. The DoD encourages travelers to carry a personal emergency contact list and to inform someone at home of their itinerary and expected return date.
Conclusion
Planning a safe and healthy trip requires diligent preparation. By proactively addressing health risks, obtaining necessary travel authorizations, and being aware of customs and entry requirements, travelers can minimize potential challenges and maximize their enjoyment of overseas destinations. The information outlined here provides a foundational framework for responsible travel, empowering individuals to navigate the complexities of international travel with confidence and awareness. Remember, a little planning goes a long way in ensuring a memorable and safe journey.
