The RAF overseas assignment application process explained

If you are an RAF spouse, partner or ‘other-half’ due to accompany an overseas assignment, this information is for you.

Service provided information is given to the Service person to ensure preparedness for an overseas assignment and will be guided by HR. However, when embroiled in the process some useful information may not be passed on to you. To help you to know what to expect, we have outlined key information to improve your understanding of the process and your involvement.

The process and your involvement

It is likely you will be heavily involved in the administrative tasks associated with an overseas assignment. Below we have outlined the process and included examples of the tasks you may be involved in:

Consider

  • Research the suitability of the assignment location.

Apply

  • Initiate clearances; medical, dental and educational

AO received

  • Passport applications/renewals

  • Arrange removals

Supportability and Clearances: What you need to know

Not all countries have the range or standards of public services that we are accustomed to in the UK. Therefore, supportability reviews, called clearances, need to be conducted for thos accompanying the Service person on the overseas assignment. This ensures any medical and educational needs can be supported whilst overseas.

Before supportability is confirmed family medical, dental and, if you have dependents, educational clearance is required.

Note: All children aged 0-18 require clearance if accompanying to the overseas location (including children in boarding school).

All clearances will be managed by the Families Section at Abbey Wood – a team of people who process paperwork associated with accompanied overseas assignments.

For further information, see the MOD Policy: Assessment of support needs for accompanied assignments overseas > 

Educational clearances

Educational paperwork needs to be submitted 6 months prior to the assignment or and any further information requested should be provided in a timely manner.

Note: schools may have limited capacity to respond outside of term time.

The process will vary depending on whether you are applying for a Defence Children Services (DCS) School or non-DCS School. For more information visit the DCS website > 

Education Options

  • In-country DCS school – If you are applying for a DCS school or setting, contact the school directly and follow their admissions process (including DCS Assessment of Support Needs).

  • In-country non-DCS school – If children are to attend a non-DCS School you will need to liaise directly with the Overseas Education and Supportability Team (OEST), who can be contacted by email at [email protected].

  • UK Private education – If children are to access private education, the family will need to apply to the school directly.

Note: Educational provision can vary greatly across overseas locations, and elective home education may not be permitted in some locations. We recommend you contact the OEST early for information and advice regarding whether an overseas location is likely to be able to meet the needs of your family.

Medical clearances

When requested, the medical paperwork is to be filled out by those accompanying the Service person and sent directly to the Global Medical Support Cell (GMSC). They will issue a statement of family fitness directly to the family, Families Section and CM. It is important to add CM information on paperwork.

Note: children who attend UK Boarding School but will spend holidays in the assigned location will require medical and dental clearance, but not educational clearance.

Useful Documents

So, that you are equally informed and prepared there are some documents you should ask to see.

Before applying:

  • Leaflet 1530 Annex A, Appendix 1 – this document highlights what you need to consider before applying for an overseas position.

    Also see: our recommended considerations before you go which has been created with input from people currently on overseas assignments.

  • AP3392 Vol2 Leaflet 2411** – this document highlights key considerations for any families with dependants that have additional needs and disabilities.

Once the Assignment Order is received:

  • Aide Memoire – these are location-specific guides to provide you with location information and specific actions which are required before moving and on arrival.

  • Advice on applying for removals – if you are organising the logistics for the move this information will tell you everything you need to know regarding removals and storage of personal effects.

Note: In some countries, education standards vary greatly. If you need advice on suitability of schools contact DCYP/CEAS for educational suitability reviews.

How we can help

If you are experiencing an issue with supportability and clearances, let us know and we will help you find a solution.