Arrival and In-Processing for Personnel Assigned to Korea
Upon arrival in the Republic of Korea, U.S. military personnel and their accompanying dependents will follow a series of arrival procedures before continuing to their assigned duty location. These steps apply to members of all U.S. military components operating in Korea.
Arriving via Commercial Airline
Travelers arriving through Incheon International Airport (ICN) should be prepared for several required steps upon disembarkation:
Immigration Processing:
Service members should present their military ID and official orders.
Dependents must present a passport and be listed on the service member’s travel orders.
Those traveling with No-Fee Passports will typically be granted a 90-day tourist visa unless an A-3 visa has been issued.
Proceed through the “Foreigner Passport” line unless otherwise directed.
Baggage Claim and Customs: Retrieve all checked baggage and proceed through the customs checkpoint using the arrival and customs declaration forms completed during the flight.
USFK Reception Desk: After clearing customs, report to the U.S. Forces Korea reception desk located in Terminal 1 (near Exit 1) or Terminal 2 (near Exit 5). Reception staff will verify your documents and assist with onward movement instructions.
Restroom facilities and convenience stores are available nearby. Most airport retailers accept U.S.-issued credit and debit cards; however, it’s a good idea to notify your bank in advance to prevent potential fraud alerts.
Make use of restroom facilities before boarding your assigned ground transportation, as travel time to your gaining installation may range from 1.5 to 5 hours depending on location and traffic.
Note: Shuttle seating is limited. Priority is given to personnel on official travel, including PCS and TDY.
Arriving via Patriot Express
If arriving via the Patriot Express, you will enter through Osan Air Base. This government-contracted flight, operated under USTRANSCOM and AMC, serves as a primary military arrival point.
Upon arrival, you will be guided through immigration and customs by U.S. Air Force personnel. You will then be received by reception staff who will coordinate transportation to your assigned installation.
Military Airlift and Space-A Travel
If you are traveling via Space-A or other military airlift options, you may also arrive at Osan Air Base. It is strongly recommended that you coordinate your travel with your sponsor and receiving unit in advance.
If arriving without prior arrangements, contact your assigned command or sponsor using the phones available in the passenger terminal. Temporary lodging may be available for overnight stays if onward movement is delayed. Do not depart the installation or make off-post lodging arrangements without notifying reception personnel.