DEERS Enrollment - Can I enroll without my Spouse/Sponsor?

I was able to discuss from my previous post about enrolling as my spouse’s dependent and getting the DEERS ID card at the US Embassy, Manila after we got married. 

Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS) is a computerized database of military sponsors, families and others worldwide who are entitled under the US law to receive TRICARE benefits. So it is really important to register each family member as soon as possible to receive such benefits in a timely manner, even if the sponsor has already retired!

Active-duty and retired service members are automatically registered in DEERS, but they must take action to register their family members and ensure they're correctly entered into the database. In my case, since we got married, this was the first thing we did. Good thing, enrollment and ID capture facilities are readily available at the US Embassy, Manila.

I got a question that came from my formspring account and a fellow newlywed, with almost the same situation as I am, asked me this:

“hi..pede magtanong? im married to US army last May 28 and now he's in okinawa japan. sabi nya sken dalhin ko daw sa US embassy yung papers namen para mailagay ako sa DEERS at makakuha ng Military ID. Okay lang ba nawala sya at ako lang ang mag process nun?”

The sender was just asking if it’s okay for her to do the DEERS/Rapids ID enrollment even if the spouse is unable to accompany her. I was only able to cover previously how I was able to do it with my husband. 

The only reason why I had my spouse with me was because we both knew that there would be additional requirements, which I will discuss in a few. Aside from that, being with your spouse can make you avoid the VERY LONG LINE for Filipino applicants because there’s a separate lane for the US citizens, which is typically "just a few”. D and I were already 3rd in line when I would have been the 20th if we queued up on the other.

Now if you don’t have your spouse to accompany you to the embassy, there‘s no problem. You can still enter the embassy premises, but will have to be really early to get in line with the rest of the other people applying for visa as you CANNOT queue up to the American Citizen's lane, unless, of course, you’re an American Citizen. Falling in line early will give you peace of mind since you are required to be there before your scheduled appointment, and besides, you would only have to do this once!

Okay, enough with queuing up, on to more important things.

Yes, I just recently found out that an APPOINTMENT must be made via this website: http://manila.usembassy.gov/wwwhju18.html. You must arrive 30 minutes prior to your appointment. One appointment is good for one family. Available slots would ONLY be 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of every month.

Here are the OTHER requirements if spouse or sponsors are unavailable:

The dependent (YOU) must bring along a DOD Form 1172 signed by the sponsor (your husband) and notarized from a DEERS/RAPIDS workstation validating you as a dependent, along with a valid national ID (such as a Philippine/U.S. Passport, driver's license, NBI report, voter's card, etc.)

- OR -

The dependent must bring along a valid Power of Attorney notarized by a US notary which gives her the power to act on the sponsor’s behalf, along with a valid national ID as stated above.

- OR -

If the sponsor is deceased, the un-remarried spouse or unmarried former spouse may act on their own behalf.

But to be more clear with the LATEST procedure, call Joint United States Military Assistance Group (JUSMAG) at 301-2000 Ext 6340.

8-11

 i ♥ u

여보
♥

あなた 

♥

حبيبي

♥

亲爱的你 
♥

Just another one of those little reminders why we are here, and how the universe conspired to get to where we are and what we have become. :)

Happy 8th and 10th!

♥♥♥ Happy 8th and 10th ♥♥♥ 

デーブちゃん

i ♥ u

여보
♥

あなた 

♥

حبيبي

♥

亲爱的你 
♥

How I got my Japan visa

D always wanted to show me around his turf and what Okinawa has to offer, aside from the fact that we both miss each others company. Thus, we planned my trip to Okinawa on Valentines. The first step would have to be obtaining a Japan visa.

Disclaimer: The narrative will only state the actual things I did, and results may still vary. Visa requirements differ as per Japan Embassy’s requirements. I suggest that you visit your travel agent or the Japan Embassy in the Philippines website for more details, and feel free to click the blue links on this post. :)

Here are actually the visa types posted on the Japan Embassy website:

http://www.ph.emb-japan.go.jp/visiting/index.htm

To download the application form, click this link:

http://www.mofa.go.jp/j_info/visit/visa/apply-form.pdf

The most appropriate type in my case would be the VISIT RELATIVES / FRIENDS INVITED BY US MILITARY PERSONNEL (SOFA STATUS)

After much research, the best bet to get a visa for me was to go to Reli Tours & Travel Agency at SM Megamall. When I made my inquiries via phone, all the staff were very accommodating and answered all my queries and I got everything covered. Good business indeed! By that time, I had already prepared some of the documents required. D also mentioned that some of his friends with fiancées and spouses would go there for services. Even Raunche, one of my friends, also mentioned Reli Tours to me. After all, SM Megamall’s only a stone’s throw away, or maybe a few meters would be a better way to describe it.

Reli Tours & Travel, 5th floor, SM Megamall (Near bridge)

So D sent out our required documents via FedEx so that I can start my application at Reli Tours.

There was one slight problem though -- he was not able to send a notarized photocopy of his DOD ID. He said that it is NEVER allowed to have their Mil ID photocopied as per Federal Law. That really made me quite nervous because the guy assisting me said that it was indeed a needed requirement for me to obtain the visa. He even added that I was the first and only one who said such things. I instead handed the agent a printed copy of the narrative from the US army website that prohibits those in the military to have their IDs photocopied.

I wouldn’t want my man be in trouble just because of some ID! Of course, the agent was actually surprised, but then went ahead and gathered all my documents together. I used D’s US passport and CA Driver’s license as the substitute IDs. I mean, they already have the Statement of Service (dry seal included), so it should suffice as evidence that he’s indeed an active duty member.

I even added a copy of his current orders, just so that they’ll see that he was really based in Okinawa, even if I have already given the Statement of Service and Certificate of Residence. The embassy encourages to affix other documents that would strengthen your proof as to why you deserve to be granted a visa.

Although this type of visa is supposed to be gratis (meaning free) for Philippine passport holders, the travel agency fee for this type was PHP2000, whether the visa would be granted or not. The good thing about this is that they’ll take care of everything else, and you wouldn’t have to personally go to the embassy for an interview. I also surrendered my passport, along with the prayers in the hope that my visa would get approved. I gave also my cell phone number in order to receive updates from that agent. He said that it may take a week or so for the results.

Turns out, I shouldn’t have been worried after all! In 5 days, I received a text from them stating that I can claim my Japan Visa straight from Reli Tours. In just five days, I became Japan-ready!

Lesson here: Completing documents is key, and additional related documents won’t hurt

Next stop, Japan!

No Photocopies Please!

“Photocopying and reproduction of Military IDs is punishable under federal law.”

I know, I did panic at first!

Knowing someone from the Navy, my spouse, in my case, gives you an idea on how the system works. Just recently, both D and I learned that photocopying his military badge is prohibited as per Federal Law.
Likewise, duplicating or counterfeiting such documents are prohibited per federal law.

“Whoever manufactures, sells or possesses any badge, identification card or other insignia of the design prescribed by the head of any department or agency of the United States for use by any officer or employee thereof, or any colorable imitation thereof, or photographs, prints, or in any other manner makes or executes any engraving, photograph, print, or impression in the likeness of any such badge, identification card, or other insignia, or any colorable imitation thereof, except as authorized under regulations made pursuant to law, shall be fined under this title or imprisoned not more than six months, or both.” (http://uscode.house.gov/download/pls/18C33.txt)

The exception can only apply to government agencies, and the police. This is not only to protect the owner’s identity, but also prevents any possibility of cloning and counterfeiting.

While some establishments are allowed to see the ID to prove an individual‘s identity, only a few knew that these are not to be reproduced or photocopied. It's either companies have been doing it all this time, or the clients themselves are in a rush to purchase something and thought that it was okay for them to have a hard copy of the badge. Most people would probably think it's indeed a requirement for the company in order for their purchases be "processed" accordingly. "Besides, what harm could it bring" one may think.,

This actually worried me because his ID was one of the requirements needed in order for me to have a Japan Visa. D assured me that he was advised by their Legal Services Department not to have a notarized copy if his badge, and that 2 other valid IDs should suffice. I was not so sure because the travel agent who handles my case said that it was their first time to hear such law. Then again, they still accepted my visa application.

Anyway, just in case any establishment refuses to assist you because of this or if they still insist that you give them a hard or soft copy of the military badge, then take your business elsewhere or provide them copies of other badges you may have.

So what D did was he provided me with notarized copies of his passport and driver’s license.

That's it, it's prohibited.

End of story.

Japan Visa Requirements -- Military Spouse

Getting a Japan Visa could really get nerve-wracking and stressful because of the different requirements being asked. However, due to the numerous illegal migrant workers in the past, they have to really make more strict guidelines for visa applications to ensure that tourists will really have to stay as tourists, and not for any other purpose.

But then again, you shouldn’t worry much about it especially if you are going there for the right reasons. In my case, my husband is still staying there for work, and being a navy wife somehow gave me the right reasons for visiting him. Besides, who would want to take that privilege away from any married couple?

People weren't really kidding when they said that there were a LOT of requirements!

This next portion will present visa requirements specific only under the type/category “VISIT RELATIVES / FRIENDS INVITED BY US MILITARY PERSONNEL (SOFA STATUS)” All information were taken from this website:
http://www.ph.emb-japan.go.jp/visiting/new%20visa/us%20military%20sofa.htm

For all other visa types visit this website instead:
http://www.ph.emb-japan.go.jp/visiting/index.htm

All documents must be original unless otherwise stated.
           
1.  Philippine Passport

Broken lamination of the photo part is not accepted. Must have at least two (2) blank pages.

2.  Visa Application Form, click here to download: http://www.mofa.go.jp/j_info/visit/visa/apply-form.pdf

This is also available at the Embassy Website, at the entrance of Embassy or accredited agency.

3.   Photo (4.5cm x 4.5cm, white background)

This must be pasted on the application form.

4.  Birth Certificates to prove relationship (*see below)

EXEMPTION: If the applicant is visiting friend/distant relative and has his/her passport (old or valid) with a used Japanese Visa

5. Marriage Contract (if the applicant is married)

*** 4 and 5 must be from NSO Main Office/Serbilis Outlet Center (Nationwide) issued within one (1) year. In case of non-record, you must submit certificate of non-record together with the one from Local Civil Registrar.)

6. Daily Schedule in Japan (in case of visiting friends)
           
7. Documents or photos etc. to prove relationship (if visiting friends)
           
8. Statement of Service (With e-mail address of attestant if possible)
           
9. Military ID Card Copy and Passport Copy

Except blank pages, must be a clear copy. Color copy is preferable, with a notary public stamp

10. Invitation Letter from Guarantor in Japan (must have hand written signature) 
           
11. Bank Certificate
           
12. Income Tax Return (Form 2316) original and photocopy

***11. and 12. are only applicable if he/her has account in bank or income tax return

EXEMPTION OF [11,12]
If the applicant is eligible for Multiple Entry or Guarantor shoulder all part of travel/living expenses for relatives (parents, sisters/brothers, or aunts/uncles, nieces/nephews).

If Guarantor in Japan Shoulder Any Part of Travel / Living Expenses
1-A. Guarantee Letter (Must have handwritten signature - Format available at the Embassy Website or at the entrance of Embassy
1-B. Most Recent Income Tax Return Copy (Form 1040 and Form W-2)

EXEMPTION OF [1-B]
-If the applicant is a parent of Guarantor in Japan
-If the applicant is a child (must be 19 years old and below) of Guarantor in Japan

 Please note: It is applicant’s responsibility to ensure that he/she meet the requirements for the grant of a visa.

Submission of any supporting documents not listed above is encouraged:
-Applicant’s economic or social ties with the Philippines
-Urgent reasons for visit: medical certificate, wedding invitation

Submission of requirements does not guarantee issuance of visa.

Validity of Documents is three (3) months from the date of issue (unless otherwise stated).
               
ADDITIONAL DOCUMENTS

If Birth Certificate from NSO is unreadable, or if there is no record in NSO, (in addition to “Certificate of Non-Record” from NSO Headquarters)

• BIRTH CERITIFICATE FROM LOCAL CIVIL REGISTRAR

If Birth Certificate (NSO) is “Late Registration”

• BAPTISMAL CERTIFICATE
• SCHOOL RECORD (Form 137)
• SCHOOL YEAR BOOK (If applicable)

***Please indicate complete address and land line (telephone, if applicable) of the church in the baptismal certificate, and of the school in school record.

FILING APPLICATION
           

Application should be filed through accredited agencies. The applicant may be required to appear in person for interview or appearance.

NOTICE

Additional documents may be requested where necessary.  Applicants are given three (3) months to submit additional requirements. Otherwise application will be terminated. Documents submitted for application will not be returned. Applicants can get information from accredited agencies when his/her application is pending.

When visa is granted, VISA FEE is gratis for this category (Philippine passport holder). When visa is not granted, the reasons of denial will not be disclosed. Applicants may apply again after six (6) month with the same purpose, unless there are emergency / humanitarian reasons, or application for different purpose.

FOR INQUIRIES in MANILA

ENGLISH/ TAGALOG
( 02 ) 834-7514
3:00p.m. ~ 4:00p.m.

As much as possible, have everything ready before visiting the travel agency who will take care of the rest. It’s better to have complete documents, otherwise, the embassy might ask you for more documents, and the processing could take another 3 weeks before you could get any result.

That's all for now! I will tell you next time how this went when I did it myself!

DEERS Enrollment, US Embassy Manila -- 11.04.09

Having a husband always has its benefits. Not only do you have a life partner, a best friend and a lover all rolled into one, but also you get to officially spend the rest of your life with him.

What's even better is that you also get to be a dependent to health benefits for having an active duty military spouse.

In order to receive such benefits, the sponsor must immediately enroll/register eligible family members to Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS). After family members are registered, they can update personal information such as addresses and phone numbers.

The only way for us to accomplish this task is to rush down US Embassy Manila to have myself registered in their database. We were not able to immediately go to the embassy on the day after the wedding, which we originally have planned, because they only process such applications on the 1st Wednesday of each month. It was fortunate for us to have our wedding fall a week earlier, like things fell really in its place.


So we planned the embassy visit and set the date for November 4. Again, we woke up during the wee hours of morning to be able to queue up at the gates along Roxas boulevard at around 5AM. Luckily, D was second in line specifically for American citizens, while I simply stayed at the Starbucks across the embassy for my morning coffee. This was also the day when the 2010 Starbucks Planner was launched. Hence, I got a free sticker for being one of the first customers! :)

At around 6:30am, I went to where D was lined up as they would be opening the gates at 7:00AM. If you're wondering why we have to put up with this is because they only process applications on a first-come-first served basis. US Embassy Manila is one of the busiest US embassies in the world so just imagine how many people would queue up each day to have visa applications and other consular services processed.

It is important to bring your passport when entering the US embassy for identification purposes, otherwise, you will not be allowed to get inside.

You are to bring at least 2 valid IDs (not really required, but recommended), other than the passport. Why?

1. Electronic devices such as cellphones are not allowed inside. One must leave electronic gadgets at the front desk, along with a valid ID, and a claim stub will be given. Now, you wouldn't want your passport to be your claim stub just for your stuff, wouldn't you? (**UPDATE: leaving electronic gadgets are NOT ALLOWED anymore, so don't bring them). 
2. The Social Security and Veterans' Affairs section would ask you to leave an ID and a visitor's pass/ID will be given upon entering its premises.

You may bring your SSS, TIN or any of the government-recognized valid IDs, so that you can still keep your passport with you.

Most importantly, a personal appearance by the sponsor (in this case, my husband), is a must. Not bringing your sponsor may give you A LOT of additional requirements.


We needed to go to window 3 in the Social Security and Veteran's Affairs section for the DEERS/RAPIDS ID Card. Again, they're open on a 'first come, first served' basis, with only limited slots available.  They would normally allow only 30 applicants per day. It was indeed vital to get included in those 30 slots, otherwise, you'd have to wait another month to get this done. Much to my delight, we were 3rd in queue. Their office officially opens at 8:00am, but you are free get in the embassy by 7:00am. (**UPDATE: Now, you will have to schedule for an APPOINTMENT by going to http://manila.usembassy.gov/wwwhju18.html. All the UPDATED information are there, but most are still pretty much the same).

Make sure to bring along valid documents to prove your relationship. You are required to bring your NSO copy of the birth certificate. Recently married couples also need to present the ORIGINAL copy of the marriage certificate. They do accept even the one that came from the Local Civil Registry (LCR), as long as it's original. The ID guy will only ask you to come back some other time with an original copy in case you just brought a photocopied one, and nothing else could be done. At window itself, they will use a scanner to save the document(s) in their database. Your spouse also must bring their DOD (Department of Defense) ID/Military ID to complete the process. There is absolutely NO FEE for the ID card, and it will be issued the same day.

Specimen only, but this is the very card I currently have
(source: http://whfrtc.ky.gov/iddeers/teslin.htm)

Who may avail?

The following personnel are eligible for DOD ID Cards: Active duty members, retired members, and members of the Reserve components not on active duty in excess of 30 days. Retired Reserve members who have reached their 60th birthday. Family members of military sponsors on active duty for more than 30 consecutive days. Family members of Ready Reserve (Selected, Individual and Standby Reservists) Family members of Retired Reservists, who have qualified for retired pay at age 60, yet have not reached age 60. Un-remarried or unmarried former spouses previously enrolled in DEERS. Medal of Honor recipients and their eligible family members. One hundred percent disabled veterans (DAVs) and their family members. Former members having reached age 60 and in recipient of retired pay for non-regular service, and their family members. Also eligible are survivors of the following: Active duty members. Retired with pay members. Reserve members on active or inactive duty. Retired reserve members who qualify for pay at age 60 but die before reaching age 60. One hundred percent DAVs. Medal of Honor Recipients. "Please note that DAVs MUST HAVE A COMBINED RATING OF 100% TO BE ELIGIBLE!!! DAVs receiving 100% because of unemployable status but your combined rating falls below 100% are not eligible, No exceptions will be made. (Source: http://www.dav3philippines.com/DEERS.htm)

Now I can use TRICARE and freely enter and exit military bases, commissaries, and other facilities!

All questions may be directed to (63) (2) 524-2227 on Tuesdays and Thursdays between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Calls placed outside of these times will not be entertained. The workstation will be closed on all weekends and U.S. and Philippine federal holidays.

For more tips in planning a trip to the US Embassy in Manila, and to see how our first visit went, click here.