FAQ

What should I expect after receiving (and submitting) my firm offer?

A representative from DoDEA HQ will contact you with an initial in-processing packet. Complete the forms and return them to your POC as soon as possible. DoDEA will secure a no-fee Official Passport for you. You may find it helpful to secure a tourist passport as well if you do not have one. The official passport is for official travel only. Your packet from HQ will contain information about securing travel orders, arranging for shipment of your household goods, and obtaining flights for your family. You may find this PCS checklist useful.

How much money should I bring/have available?

When you arrive in Japan, you will have temporary lodging on or near your base. This is called Temporary Quarters Subsistence Allowance (TQSA). While in TQSA status, you will pay for your lodging expenses up front, and submit forms to DoDEA for reimbursement. You may be in TQSA for up to 90 days. If you elect to secure a home off base, you will pay several fees upon signing the lease (deposit, first/last month rent, appreciation fee, realtor fee, etc.). These fees may reach $5,000-$8,000. While you may request Advance Pay, the forms may take a few weeks to process. Plan your financial budget accordingly. Some people elect to use credit cards with points/benefits during this period.

What Should I/ Shouldn't I Include in my Household Goods (HHG) Shipment?

You may ship up to 18,000 pounds with your HHG shipment. However, please note that Japanese houses are typically smaller than Western houses. You may have difficulty finding a house to fit very large, over-sized furniture pieces. You are allowed (if your timeline permits) to have two shipments, one regular and one smaller express shipment. The express shipment typically arrives a few weeks prior to the regular shipment, but this is not always the case.

Ship to Post office (box number provided by secretary/sponsor) prior to arrival*:

• Essential teaching materials
• Any items you will need immediately but are unable to pack in your luggage

Note: This is not required, and you may not receive reimbursement

Include in Express Shipment:

• Bed linens/pillows
• Microwave
• Iron/ironing board
• Television

Do Not Ship:

• Washer/Dryer
• Car (see below)
• Large appliances

Should I ship my car to Japan?

Because of strict Japanese laws, no vehicles manufactured after March 31, 1976 can be shipped to Japan without permission through a special waiver. In the unlikely event a waiver is approved, the car will need to be retrofitted to pass the Japanese inspection process. Used cars are quite inexpensive in Japan and are more cost effective.

How will I obtain a cell phone?

Your sponsor will help you obtain a cell phone upon your arrival. Many people choose to secure a phone from SoftBank or AU, two large cellular companies in Japan. Both companies have good coverage, but one (or a different company) may have better coverage in your area. Ask your sponsor before signing a cell phone contract. You will need to have a copy of your orders/letter of employment to secure a contract.

How will I be paid?

DoDEA employees are paid every 2 weeks. Your first 1-2 paychecks may be delayed due to the processing of your in-processing paperwork. However, if any delays occur, you will be reimbursed. During your first year in DoDEA, your pay is divided into 21 pay periods (10 months) instead of 26 pay periods (12 months). You will NOT receive a paycheck during your first summer. Please save accordingly. AFTER your first year, you may elect to receive your pay in 21 OR 26 pay periods.