Newcomers Info

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS
If dependent spouses/children plan to move to Germany prior to the Active Duty member, certain benefits may be limited, including access to on-base medical care and on-base housing. If this is something you are considering, please contact your gaining squadron’s First Sergeant.
Household Goods
RECOMMENDED PURCHASES
- A GPS (with European maps): Navigating European roads is difficult and cell phone coverage can be poor in rural areas. Personnel from Spangdahlem live in a relatively spread out area and finding someone’s home can be a challenge. The GPS selection on base is limited and better deals can often be found state side.
- Items not commonly found in basic stores: While there are plenty of shopping opportunities on and off-base, certain brand names you may be accustomed to may not be available. Ask your sponsor to help research any items you cannot live without (i.e. certain make-up brands or seasoning). Do your research to make sure your favorite stores ship APO. If they do not, APO forwarding services are available.
- Area rugs: German homes typically have all hard floors and can be drafty/cold. You may find better deals and more options in the US.
DO NOT INCLUDE
- Major Appliances (i.e. washer, dryer, refrigerator, or oven): These items are provided in base housing. Furniture Managing Office (FMO) provides German-spec appliances for personnel who live off base.
- Firearms: Headquarters USAREUR has directed that service members are not allowed to ship, transport, or hand-carry privately owned firearms to Germany. This is necessary to avoid the possibility of German criminal prosecution for unauthorized possession of weapons or the possibility of punishment under the UCMJ.
- While waterbeds are authorized in government housing units, they must be approved by a housing inspector to ensure the bed(s) meets approved weight standards. Should your waterbed cause any damage to the government housing unit (even if use was approved by an inspector), you will be held responsible for repair costs.
CONSIDER CARRYING OR MAILING
- Linens: Sheets, towel, blankets, pillows for all members of a household
- Kitchen Supplies: Measuring cups/spoons, favorite travel mug, frequently used gadgets, children’s cups/plates/utensils
- Entertainment: Streaming device, tablet/laptop, DVDs, card games, toys for children
- Power adapter/converter
- Basic/Frequently Used Spices (i.e. salt/pepper/garlic)
- Clothes Hangers
- Tape/Scissors/Stapler/Sharpie
- Coffee (Check customs guidelines for details on the weight limits. DO NOT MAIL!)
ON-BASE MAIL
MAIL FORWARDING & ON BASE POSTAL SERVICE
The Spangdahlem AB Post Office operates as an extension of the United States Postal Service in order to provide effective and responsive postal services to authorized personnel. Mail services can be established at Spangdahlem AB up to 90 days prior to your arrival. Your sponsor can help set up your PSC Box, with a copy of your PCS orders.

The Military Postal System provides many of the same services as the United States Postal System. Keep in mind delivery may take a bit longer due to the extra distance mail must travel. Priority packages and letter-class mail take approximately 8 days. Magazines and surface mail may take 30-35 days. Express mail service may be purchased for delivery to CONUS in 3 days.

Ensure all shipments are packaged in sturdy boxes and secured with packing tape. Customs forms must list everything contained in the package and cannot include generic terms like "gift" or "snacks."

52D FSS POST OFFICE TIPS
- Check-in with the post office upon arrival. Update contact information to ensure receipt of package notifications via email.
- Check mail on a regular basis (every two to three days), or more if expecting packages. Packages are held 15 days before being returned to sender.
- To prevent your package from being "returned to sender” while TDY or on leave, contact customer service to put your box on hold. You may request someone to check your mail by completing the required paperwork at customer service.
MAILING RESTRICTIONS
DoD Personnel with an APO address in Germany are subject to International Customs regulations and are prohibited from mailing or receiving the following items:
- ALL prescription and/or over-the-counter medications
- ALL synthetic supplements/diet pills
- ALL herbal supplements (including vitamins)
- Drugs and drug paraphernalia
- Alcoholic Beverages
- Coffee and coffee products
- Cigarettes and other tobacco products
- Firearms and explosives
- Meat, dairy and plant products
- Pornography
Customs frequently conducts inspections of the postal system; unauthorized items will be confiscated and further actions will be taken if deemed necessary (i.e. investigation, loss of MPO privileges, etc.) Find out what you can and cannot send by checking the guidance posted at the Post Office before shipping.

For more information visit www.52fss.com/post-office or DSN 314-452-7195/Comm +49 (0)6565-61-7195.
FINANCIAL MATTERS
Moving to Europe can be significantly more expensive than you may think. Arriving with a substantial amount of money saved away to defray these initial costs can ease the stress of your PCS.

Some expenses you will need to prepare for include:
- If you plan to live off-base, the required rental deposit can vary between one to three months’ rent. Note that exchange rates fluctuate and can make your local bill amounts vary monthly. Depending on the home, you may have up-front costs such as oil for heating or fees to establish other required services.
- Pay advances are available through the Housing and Finance Offices. Contact the Housing Office at DSN 314-452-7133/Comm +49 (0)6565-61-7133 or the Finance Office at DSN 314-452-6763/Comm +49 (0)6565-61-6763.
- The AFAS Housing Assistance Loan Overseas is available. For more information contact the Airman and Family Readiness Center at DSN 314-452-6422/Comm +49 (0)6565-61-6422.
- Cell phones and service. US-spec cell phones will work with German carriers; the phone must be unlocked by the US service provider prior to activation by a German carrier.
- Purchasing a car.
- Rental cars are available while you wait for your shipped vehicle or while shopping for one. Rentals are typically much more expensive than stateside.
- On-Base rental cars contact Sixt Rental Car Comm +49 (0) 6565-4388.
- For Off-Base rental cars contact Europcar Bitburg at +49 (0) 656194-6445 or Europcar Wittlich +49 (0)6571-3337 or visit www.europcar.de.
- Winter or all-season tires are required by German law, on all vehicles, during the months of October to April.
- Verify any modifications you may need to make to your car to ensure it passes the German safety inspection.
- Buying 220V appliances. Check all your appliances and electronics before leaving them in the US. Many are dual-voltage and compatible with 220V. Most TVs, PCs, tablets, and smart phones are now easily convertible.
BANKING
In order to pay your bills on the economy, you will need to open an account at one of the banks on base or at an off base German bank. While you can certainly keep your stateside bank account, it is highly unlikely that your bank will provide the required IBAN (wire transfer number) to support a Euro payment service.

On base banks are incorporated into both the US and German banking systems. The two banks available on base are: Service Credit Union and Community Bank. The rates and services offered change from time to time, so it is best to research them when you arrive on station.
PASSPORT INFORMATION
Any non-active duty member should have a no-fee government passport with a Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) Stamp. A SOFA Stamp exempts dependents from being required to obtain a visa and allows unrestricted access to and from Germany. Active Duty members will not receive a SOFA stamp. Active Duty members must present their military ID and a copy of PCS orders upon arrival. If you wish to speak directly with the Spangdahlem AB Passport Office call DSN 314-452-4448/Comm +49 (0)6565-61-4448.

If you plan to engage in leisure travel while assigned in Europe, you and your family will need to acquire tourist passports at your expense. A tourist passport will ensure you can travel freely to ALL European countries. A no-fee passport or
military ID will not allow entry into some European countries. Check the following link for additional information pertaining to country-specific passport requirements: www.fcg.pentagon.mil. For information on tourist passports visit: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel.html.
AIRPORT SHUTTLE & TRANSPORTATION
Transportation from the airport to base should be arranged a minimum of 24 hours prior to arrival. Money spent for the shuttle, taxi, or by your sponsor to purchase gas, can be claimed on your travel voucher. The 52nd Force Support Squadron Saber Shuttle provides daytime shuttle transportation to and from Spangdahlem AB, Ramstein Passenger Terminal, Frankfurt-Hahn Airport, and Frankfurt International Airport.

NOTE: Personnel travelling with children requiring booster or car safety seats must provide their own booster/car seats. All pets (including service animals) must be transported in airline approved kennels IAW German traffic laws.

For reservations or more information visit www.52fss.com/airport-shuttle for the latest up-to-date information, reservation request form or contact the Saber Shuttle Office: DSN 314-452-7684/Comm +49 (0)6565-61-7684.
In case of an emergency, contact the Spangdahlem Command Post: DSN 314-452-6100/Comm +49 (0)6565-61-6100.
LODGING & TEMPORARY LIVING FACILITY (TLF)
Reserve a room at Eifel Arms Inn as soon as possible once confirmed travel dates are received. Reservations can be made by visiting www.52fss.com/lodging or by calling the Eifel Arms Inn at DSN 314-452-0500/Comm +49 (0)6565-61-0500. Provide the following information to reserve lodging/TLF: full name, rank, organization, and date of arrival. Reservations can be made by your sponsor.

Pet-friendly TLF facilities are available on a limited basis. If you are planning on bringing a pet(s), please let your sponsor/Eifel Arms Inn know as soon as possible in order to reserve a pet friendly room.
SABER PET LODGE
Additional kenneling arrangements can be made at the 52 FSS Saber Pet Lodge. The 52 FSS Saber Pet Lodge provides transportation services to and from Ramstein AB and Frankfurt International Airport.

Visit www.52fss.com/saber-pet-lodge to ensure your pet has the required vaccinations for lodging and boarding or contact them at DSN 314-452-5004/Comm +49 (0)6565-61-5004.

ARRIVAL REQUIREMENTS
Upon arrival in country, contact your sponsor as soon as possible.

Within the first 30 days on station, you must register your Common Access Card (CAC) and Dependent ID Card(s) with the Installation Access Control System located at the Visitor's Control Center (Bldg 505), outside of the main gate. Upon registration of your CAC, you will be authorized access to one or more local military installations and establish escort privileges.

Call DSN 314-452-7414/Comm +49 (0)6565-61-7414 for more information.
NEWCOMER ORIENTATION
The 52nd FW Base Newcomer Orientation is an introduction to base resources and agencies. Call the Airman and Family Readiness Center at DSN 314-452-6422/Comm +49 (0)6565-61-6422 for more information or to reserve your seat. Spouses are encouraged to attend.

Newcomer Orientation briefers include:
- 52nd FW Command Team -Communications Squadron
- 52nd Medical Group Agencies -Sexual Assault Prevention & Response
- Tricare Office -Family Advocacy
- A&FRC -Customs Office
- Equal Opportunity -Antiterrorism & Office of Special Investigations
RATION CARD
A ration card is required to purchase coffee, hard alcohol, and tobacco at the Commissary, Exchange and AAFES Express. Take a copy of your orders to your squadron’s orderly room to be issued a ration card.
DRIVING IN GERMANY
HOUSING
FIRST STOP: HOUSING OFFICE
All accompanied personnel must report to the 52d Housing Management Office within two days of arrival. Failure to report may affect Temporary Lodging Allowance (TLA) payment.
- 52nd Housing Management Office (Bldg 545), DSN 314-452-7133/Comm +49 (0)6565-61-7133
- Unaccompanied personnel must contact their leadership and/or Dorm Manager to ensure they meet the criteria to live off-base or in the dorms.
- On-base housing options: Stairwell housing (apartment style), townhomes or dorms for single Airmen.
- Upon your visit to the housing office, if you are NOT offered on-base housing, you are authorized 20 days in TLF. If you ARE offered on-base housing, you will be authorized 15 days in TLF.
FINDING AN OFF-BASE HOUSE
- Do not start house hunting prior to visiting the Housing Office. The Housing Office will provide critical information and a brief on your Overseas Housing Allowance (OHA). They will also provide the most accurate information on your rent cap, as it differs based upon dependents and rank.
- Visit www.homes.mil for houses listed under the Housing Office. Other online search options include Spangdahlem Bookoo and various Facebook groups.
- After completing the Housing brief, you will be given a Promissory Note. If you find a house you are interested in, the promissory note will secure your house until you can bring the landlord the rental agreement from the Housing Office.
- The Housing Office will draft the rental agreement for you and assist with translation if your landlord does not speak English. Utilities are generally not included in the monthly rent.
- Similar to renting in the US, pets may limit the choices of available houses. Depending on how long a house has been on the market and how eager the landlord is to rent, they may consider a pet even if the listing explicitly states, “NO PETS". Visit the listed house and if you like it, inquire if the landlord will accept your pet(s).
- When searching for your perfect German residence, keep your furniture in mind. Many German houses have small rooms and narrow stairwells that might not fit your king size mattress.
FURNISHING MANAGEMENT OFFICE
Once you move to your house, on- or off-base, the Furnishing Management Office (FMO) will provide you with temporary furniture (beds, couch, lamps, table/chairs) while you await your Household Goods. If you have a house off-base, FMO will provide you with appliances (washer, dryer, refrigerator, transformers, fire extinguisher, and standing wardrobes (2 per adult, 1 per child) that you can keep for the duration of your tour. For more information contact FMO (Bldg 454) at DSN 314-452-6802/Comm +49 (0)6565-61-6802.
VALUE ADDED TAX (VAT) AND UTILITY TAX AVOIDANCE PROGRAM (UTAP)
VAT and UTAP office (Bldg 126, 1st floor), DSN 314-452-7801/Comm +49 (0)6565-61-7801. Visit www.52fss.com/vat-utap-office for additional information.

VAT
Germany has a 19% sales tax. Military members and their dependents can purchase items on the economy up to €2,500 , without paying sales tax, by using a VAT form. VAT forms are available for purchase at the VAT office for $5.00 a form and you may purchase up to ten forms at a time. First time buyers can do a one-time purchase of 10 for $40.00. The VAT Office has an application for an additional VAT form for purchases over €2,500. Bring a copy of your orders, military ID, and a Form 5 (located on the 52 FSS link above or available at the VAT office) to set up your VAT account.

UTAP
If you live off-base, avoid paying 19% tax on electric and gas bills by signing up for the UTAP program. You cannot enroll in UTAP until you receive your first month's bill. It costs $99 to enroll in UTAP and the following must be presented at the UTAP office:
- Military ID
- Copy of orders
- Housing Contract
- $99.00 Registration Fee (cash, credit, debit, check accepted)
- Forms 1, 2, and 3 (located on the 52 FSS website, link above)
- First month's bill. Utility bills can be tax-exempt only if the bill is in the sponsor’s name.
STAY CONNECTED
Service Providers
For cell phone, landline phones, cable, and internet services, there are service providers both on- and off-base. There are two cell phone service providers located on-base at the Base Exchange: TKS and Telekom. Prices and services differ, especially from the States. Stop by to learn of their ongoing promotions and plans.

Off-Base Internet
Setting up your home internet can take a few months but is generally faster if initiated at an off-base service provider located in Bitburg or Wittlich. Service providers can check the internet speeds for the area in which your home is located. If internet speed is important to you, this is something to consider while house hunting.

Television
Armed Forces Network (AFN) is available. A decoder can be purchased from the BX. Additional resources include streaming devices. A VPN may be necessary to utilize services. German/American cable television plans are available through a local internet provider.
APPLIANCES AND ELECTRONICS
Transformers & Converters
Germany uses a higher voltage current than the United States – the US uses 110v, while Germany (and the rest of Europe) uses 220v. German outlets use the 2-prong, round plugs, however be aware that other European countries may use varying plug designs.
- 110v appliances: Items will need to be run through transformers, which are electrical boxes that step down European voltage to 110 volts. Transformers “step down” the voltage of electricity, but do not change the frequency (hertz). As a result, electronics using timing systems (such as clocks) will not be able to keep accurate time.
- Dual Voltage appliances: Some items are dual voltage and this will be stated on the tag or on the plug. These will simply need a converter to be plugged into the outlet. Plug converters can be purchased at on and off-base locations.
- 110/220V switch: Set the switch or change the setting to 220v before plugging the device in.
Transformers use a considerable amount of energy (even when nothing is plugged into them) and may reduce the life expectancy of your items. It might be more cost-effective to purchase 220v versions of frequently used items such as irons, vacuums, coffee pots, etc.

FMO will provide two transformers for the entirety of your tour.

Lighting
110v lamps can be used with a plug converter. Simply swap out the 110v bulb for a European-spec 220v bulb.
SCHOOLS
Spangdahlem Community Schools
The three on-base schools are part of the Department of Defense (DoDEA) Europe West District. For more information visit www.dodea.edu/Europe/west/index.cfm.

The Spangdahlem Elementary Main Office is located in Bldg 439. The Spangdahlem Middle School and High School are co-located in Bldg 590. Visit the links below for more information on each school or contact the Spangdahlem School Liaison Officer at 52msg.dodds@us.af.mil.

For enrollment information contact each school directly or visit the links provided.
- Spangdahlem Elementary School - www.dodea.edu/SpangdahlemES
- Spangdahlem Middle School - www.dodea.edu/SpangdahlemMS
- Spangdahlem High School - www.dodea.edu/SpangdahlemHS
German Schools
Germany has a public school system. You have the option of enrolling your child in the German school system, if space is available, at no cost. This is a great opportunity for children to learn the language and culture. Every child is different, but in general, a child with no knowledge of German upon entering school will understand it in 4-6 months and be fluent at their age level in 6-8 months.

The school day is shorter (half-day for elementary), but students can be enrolled for the whole day for a small fee.

Note: Not all US holidays will coincide with German holidays.

German Kindergarten
German Kindergartens are local off-base daycares for children 3 to 5 years of age. Most villages have a Kindergarten and the opportunity to enroll will be based on space available, as Germans have priority.

Contact the local Kindergarten you are interested in for more information.
SCHOOL BUS ROUTES
If your child will be attending one of the Department of Defense Schools on-base, transportation will be provided to and from your village at one designated bus stop.

Contact the Student Transportation Office (Bldg 433) at eifel.sbo@dodea.edu for the most current list of villages with a DoDEA bus stop.

There is no bus transportation for students living on-base.

For more information contact the School Transportation Office at DSN 314-452-5340/Comm +49 (0)6565-61-5340 or visit www.dodea.edu/SpangdahlemES/transportation.cfm.
CHILDCARE
Child Development Center (CDC)
The Child Development Center (Bldg 443), offers on-base daycare services for children from 6 weeks to 5 years old. The CDC is closed on Family Days and Federal Holidays. Visit www.militarychildcare.com to get information on enrollment or call the CDC at DSN 314-452-6697/Comm +49 (0)6565-61-6697.

School Age Program (SAP)
The School Age Program (Bldg 457), provides on-base child care for children 6-12 years old and offers before and after school care. During summer months, SAP offers full-day enrichment programs. Visit www.militarychildcare.com to get information on enrollment or call SAP at DSN 314-452-7545/Comm +49 (0)6565-61-7545.

Family Child Care (FCC)
Family Child Care Providers are individuals certified to provide childcare in their home. An FCC Provider undergoes a background check, training, inspections and is monitored by the Community Child Care Coordinator.

Contact the Family Child Care Office for a list of current providers or more information at DSN 314-452-9022/Comm +49 (0)6565-61-9022. Types of care offered by FCC providers include: Full time, Part-time, Drop-in, PCS Care, Deployment Care, Extended Duty Care, and Military Spouse Appointment Care.
EMPLOYMENT & VOLUNTEERING
Employment Opportunities
There are several on-base employment opportunities at Spangdahlem AB. Spouses and dependents seeking employment while stationed at Spangdahlem AB are strongly encouraged to contact the Airman and Family Readiness Center (A&FRC, Bldg 307) for more information.

The A&FRC can provide resume assistance, mock interviews and help with understanding the spouse employment process. Contact the A&FRC at DSN 314-452-6422/Comm +49 (0)6565-61-6422 for more information. For current federal employment opportunities visit www.usajobs.gov.

Volunteering
Volunteers are a vital part of the Spangdahlem Community. Many opportunities are available with the following organizations: USO, A&FRC, Outdoor Recreation, Youth Sports Program, and the American Red Cross. Contact each agency for more information.
MEDICAL SERVICES
On Base
There is no emergency medical service on Spangdahlem AB. The 52nd Medical Group has a clinic located in Bldg 550 for basic and routine medical needs. While the clinic can accommodate most medical needs, you may be referred off base or to the Landstuhl Regional Medical Center for specialized care.

It is recommended to maintain your dental insurance until you arrive at Spangdahlem AB and can assess the availability of dental services for dependents. The additional insurance would also provide coverage for special procedures that may have to be performed through an off-base provider.

To schedule an appointment or for more information contact the Medical Appointment Line at DSN 314-452-8333/Comm +49 (0)6565-61-8333.

Off Base
Emergency care is provided off-base at local German hospitals. For non-emergencies, a referral will be required to see an off-base provider. Without a proper referral, an off-base medical provider can be costly.

For more information, visit the TRICARE Office located inside the clinic (Bldg 550) or call DSN 314-452-3524/Comm +49 (0)6565-61-3524.

If you require assistance with translation, help is available through a Patient Liaison Officer (PLO). A PLO is available Mon-Fri 0800-1700 and Sat & Sun 0900-1500. The PLO is not available on German and American Holidays.

Local Hospitals include:
- Bitburg Krankenhaus (Adults Only)/PLO Contact +49 (0)6561-6455-2460
- Wittlich St. Elisabeth Krankenhaus (Adults & children)/PLO Contact +49 (0)6571-152-8821
- Trier Mutterhaus (Adults & Children)/PLO Contact +49(0) 6519-748-3355
- Trier Brueder Krankenhaus (Adults Only)/No PLO
Veterinary Care
The Spangdahlem Veterinary Treatment Facility (VTF) is located on-base (Bldg 559). They offer routine care, health certificates for international travel, and perform minor surgeries. All pets must be registered with the VTF upon arrival. The VTF is not equipped to handle medical emergencies but can provide a list of off-base veterinarians and emergency clinics. For more information contact the VTF at DSN 314-452-9388/Comm +49 (0)6565-61-9388.

If you wish to travel throughout Europe with your pet, you will need an EU Pet Passport from a German veterinarian. Even with a pet passport, some countries restrict travel, so you will want to confirm entry requirements prior to traveling with your pet.
HELPFUL REFERENCES
USEFUL WEBSITES
Download the Air Force Connect App: Set 52nd Fighter Wing as your favorite
52d Force Support Squadron
MilitaryOneSource
Plan My Move
Military Installations website
Housing approved for house searching (Homes.mil)
Military Kids Connect
On-base child care
COLA Calculator

TRANSLATION RESOURCES
It's recommended that members download foreign language learning tools and applications to learn foundations of the German language. Several free and paid versions are accessible for most common smart phones.

Additionally, the Spangdahlem AB library has audio CDs and books available. Contact the library (Bldg 148) to set up your free Mango Language program account at DSN 314-452-6208/Comm +49 (0)6565-61-6203.

Get a head start on your housing in-processing: Click the image above to view the Housing Office informational video!

This briefing video is for informational use only; it does not replace your first visit to the Spangdahlem Housing Management Office. Please report to the HMO within two days of arriving to Spangdahlem Air Base. For the most current and up-to-date information regarding your overseas housing, please visit the Spangdahlem HMO (Bldg. 454) or call DSN: 314-452-7133 (COMM: +49 6565 61 7133). If you would like to submit an early application to help expedite your in-processing at Housing, click here.

Before You Arrive

Upon Arrival