INSTALLATION ACCESS FOR ELIGIBLE VETERANS

WHO IS ELIGIBLE

On 1 January 2020, DOD opened the doors of commissaries, exchanges and recreational facilities to more than 4.1 million eligible Veterans.

Veterans who are Purple Heart recipients, former prisoners of war, and all who have any level of service-connected disabilities are now eligible.

PROVING ELIGIBILITY

Veteran Health Identification Cards (VHIC) are an accepted means of proving a veteran has a service-connected disability and is entitled to installation access.

There is a standing Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) with Germany that recognizes veterans residing in Germany but requires the Veteran, like military retirees, to pay tax on purchases. Veterans in possession of a VHIC card must apply for a German Customs card. The application for such a customs card is processed through the military customs office.

HOW TO GET YOUR VHIC

Veterans have two choices on how to get a VHIC. The first choice is to visit a VA Hospital. Unfortunately, there are no VA hospitals in Europe. Luckily you can now also apply online! 

To apply for a VHIC card, a veteran must be able to use one of the VA Partners to access the application. 

Note: Currently, all sign up partners require US address and US phone number to complete the sign up.