What All DoD Government Personnel Must Do Prior to Foreign Travel

When planning a trip abroad, there are clear rules. In fact, prior to foreign travel all dod government personnel must adhere to a strict set of procedures. These regulations are not optional; they are essential for national security, your personal safety, and mission success. Consequently, understanding these steps well in advance is crucial for a smooth process.

This guide provides a clear overview of your mandatory obligations. Therefore, you can prepare effectively and ensure full compliance with all Department of Defense directives.

Understanding the Core Requirement: The Foreign Clearance Guide (FCG)

The first and most important resource is the Foreign Clearance Guide, or FCG. This document dictates the specific entry requirements for every country. It is the official source for all DoD personnel. For instance, it details everything from required immunizations to visa and passport rules. You must consult the FCG for your specific destination as the very first step in your planning process. Requirements can change, so always check the latest version.

Checklist: What Prior to Foreign Travel All DoD Government Personnel Must Complete

To simplify the process, we have created a checklist of non-negotiable tasks. Completing these items in a timely manner is your responsibility. Moreover, failure to do so can result in travel delays or cancellations.

1. Submit an Aircraft and Personnel Automated Clearance System (APACS) Request

APACS is the web-based system used to request and approve foreign travel clearance. You must submit your request through APACS well ahead of your departure date. This system routes your information to the appropriate U.S. embassies and combatant commands for approval. Therefore, submitting early is vital.

2. Complete Mandatory Training

Several training courses are required before any foreign travel. These typically include:

• Antiterrorism (AT) Level I Training: This provides foundational knowledge on terrorism threats and personal protection measures. It must be current within one year of travel.
• SERE 100.2 Level A: Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape training is another critical requirement for many travelers.
• Personnel Recovery (PR): Depending on the destination’s risk level, additional PR or isolated personnel training may be necessary.

3. Obtain All Necessary Documents

Ensure your documents are in order. This includes having a valid government or official passport. In addition, you may need a specific visa for your destination country. Check the FCG to confirm what is required. Do not assume a tourist visa is sufficient for official business.

4. Attend Pre-Travel Briefings

Your command will provide mandatory briefings. These often cover security, counterintelligence, health threats, and specific information about your destination. Consequently, you must attend these sessions as they contain vital, up-to-date intelligence.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Many personnel face issues due to simple mistakes. A common error is waiting until the last minute to start the clearance process. This leaves no time to correct errors. Another pitfall is assuming that a previous clearance for one country applies to another. However, every country has unique rules. Always start fresh for each new trip.

Your Final Pre-Travel Responsibilities

Finally, just before you depart, you should confirm your travel approval in APACS. You must also provide your chain of command with a detailed itinerary. This ensures they know your location and schedule. Following these steps diligently is not just about compliance; it is about ensuring your own safety and the security of the mission.