Bringing Your Family to Korea – Command Sponsorship Overview

The Republic of Korea offers a rewarding and dynamic environment for Service Members and their families. For those assigned to U.S. military components operating in Korea, bringing your family to accompany you during your tour can enrich both your personal and professional experience abroad.

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What Is Command Sponsorship?

Command Sponsorship authorizes eligible dependents to accompany a Service Member on their overseas assignment and ensures access to full logistical, medical, and housing support for the duration of the tour. Once approved, Command Sponsorship allows family members to be listed on official PCS travel orders and grants access to installation services and entitlements.

Approval is not automatic—Service Members must formally request Command Sponsorship and complete all required steps prior to their Permanent Change of Station (PCS).

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How to Apply

To begin the Command Sponsorship process, Service Members should initiate the family travel screening at least 180 days prior to their report date to Korea. This process helps ensure the gaining location can support any specific medical, educational, or logistical needs of accompanying dependents.

The process typically includes:

• Submitting a Family Travel or Medical Screening Packet

• Completing any required Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) assessments (if applicable)

• Obtaining command endorsements and approval
  

Each U.S. military component may have its own procedures and timelines for submitting requests. Service Members are encouraged to consult with their local personnel or administrative office to ensure all documentation is accurate and submitted promptly.

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Required Documentation Include

For Service Members currently located outside Korea:

• Family travel screening checklist
  

• Command Sponsorship request memorandum

• Medical or educational documentation (if applicable)

• Official assignment notification or PCS orders

• Record brief or service-specific equivalent

• Additional forms as required by your branch
  
  

For Service Members currently serving in Korea:

• In-country sponsorship checklist

• Command Sponsorship request memorandum

• Endorsement from unit leadership

• Original PCS orders and follow-on assignment documentation

• Medical and educational documentation (if applicable)

• Identification card enrollment form (e.g., DEERS or service-specific)
  
  

Important Notes

• Medical forms such as DD 2792 and DD 2792-1 are only required if medical or special education needs are identified during screening.

• Dependents must be medically cleared before sponsorship can be approved.

• The full names and identifying information of approved dependents must appear on the PCS orders.