VETERANS INITIATIVE

FAQs

Below are the most frequently asked questions (FAQs) posed to the Veterans Initiative.  We hope that you can find an answer to your query however if your question is still unanswered please do not hesitate to contact us at GSG-G1-VETERANS@mod.uk with as much detail as possible.

VETERANS INITIATIVE

How do I register for the Veterans Initiative?
Please go to http://www.bfgnet.de/BFGVets.html and follow the link

Do I Have To Join The BFG Veterans Support Initiative To Obtain A Pass?
No!  However membership enables this HQ to look at what issues affect the Veterans and what we can do to assist.  If you have not yet joined but wish to, please go to http://www.bfgnet.de/BFGVets.html

VETERANS INSTALLATION ACCESS PASS

Do I qualify for a Veterans Installation Pass (VIAP)?
To qualify for a VIAP you have to have served at least one days paid service post basic training, outside a training unit in the Royal Navy, Army or RAF or their equivalent Reserve Force i.e. the TA and your conduct on discharge must be graded “good” or above.  You must be also be resident in Germany and undergo and pass a security and vetting check.  For full details, please go to http://www.bfgnet.de/BFGVets.html and follow the link.

I was in the UOTC/ACF/CCF etc; do I qualify for a Veterans Installation Pass (VIAP)?
At present, members of the CCF (or individual Service equivalent) are not eligible to apply for a VIAP as members do not serve at least one days paid service post basic training, outside a training unit in the British Armed Forces or their equivalent Reserve Force.

I am a widow/er of a service person, can I apply for a VIAP?
Yes you can, providing you have not re-married.  You will have to fill in the application form available at http://www.bfgnet.de/BFGVets.html and give your details as well as those of the deceased service person.  Your local pass office can also assist you with the application.

My father/mother/ex-husband etc was in the military, can I apply for a VIAP?
At present, the VIAP is only available to those that have served in the British Military and the widows/ers of those that served.

I live a long way from a Pass Office, can I apply by post for a VIAP?
All applications have to be made in person to a Pass Office as your original documentation has to be verified and copied.  You are strongly advised to contact the Pass Office to book an appointment prior to travel.

I have lost my “red book”, can I still apply for a VIAP?
Yes you can!  We can trace your records providing we have a Regimental number however this may delay the processing of your application

How long does it take to obtain a VIAP?
Due to the various checks that have to take place this process can take at least 3 months and more depending on individual circumstances and workload.  If you have not received your VIAP within 4 months of applying, please contact the Pass Office where you registered your application. 

Why is the Veterans Initiative and VIAP not publicised in RN and RAF publications?
This HQ has offered to share our publicity to the RAF and RN.  It is however beyond our control as to if they choose to use it.

Can the Veterans Installation Access Pass (VIAP) be registered with the German authorities as an officially recognised ID document?
The VIAP is not an ID card and cannot be used as one under any circumstances.  It is an officially recognised Access Pass within British Forces Germany (BFG).  It would not be recognised outside of this forum including the wider community of Germany.

How soon before my VIAP expires can I apply for a new one?
Holders of VIAP’s can re-apply 6 months prior to the expiry date for a new card.  They will have to complete the initial paperwork again at their local Pass Office and write on top of the paperwork “re-applying for a VIAP”.  This HQ will endeavour to carry out the checks prior to the expiry date however Veterans are asked to be mindful that these take time hence the reason why a new card can be reapplied for 6 months prior to the expiry date.  Please note that re-applications for VIAP’s will not be accepted for cards with more than 6 months until the expiry date.

ACCESS TO BFG FACILITIES

Which Military Facilities Will I Be Able To Access?
Veterans in possession of a VIAP are allowed access to all British Military Installations within BFG.  A list of all the facilities that you can access within each Garrison and Station is available at all HIVE Information Centres.  Please see the website www.hive-europe.co.uk  for locations, opening times and local lists.  Please be aware that access to facilities may vary between areas.  There are certain facilities that Veterans may not be able to access due to constraints placed on this HQ under the international agreements with the host nation.  However please be assured that this HQ is committed to developing the list of facilities that the Veterans can access.

Can Veterans take guests with them when accessing facilities?
The VIAP allows the Veterans plus 4 family members to access amenities and facilities.  This includes the NAAFI although only the VIAP holder can purchase goods for immediate consumption or using their Pink Card.  It is the Veterans responsibility to ensure that their guests remain with them at all times.

Can Veterans access Army Learning Centres (previously known as Army Education Centres)?
Unfortunately due to strict funding guidelines, it is not currently possible for Veterans to access Army Learning Centres.

Can Veterans use an Army Learning Centre’s (previously known as Army Education Centres) for Open University (OU) purposes?
Individuals may be able to access Army Learning Centres (ALC’s) in regards to sitting examinations.  Individuals should contact their local ALC to discuss the matter further.  Details of local ALC’s can be found on the HIVE website www.hive-europe.co.uk

Can Veterans access SSVC cinemas?
Due to the rules of the agreement between the British Military and the German Authorities, this facility is not currently available to Veterans unless they are still a member of the military component.

Can Veterans use the BFPO system?
The BFPO system is only for the use of members of the force, the civilian component, their members and dependants.  Therefore to use the BFPO as a Veteran outside of this caveat is not permissible. 

PENSIONS & BENEFITS

Who can assist me with information regarding my military pension?
For further advice on forces pensions, please go to http://www.mod.uk/DefenceInternet/AboutDefence/WhatWeDo/Personnel/SPVA/

Who can assist me with information regarding my UK State Pension?
For further advice on state pensions, please go to: http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/MoneyTaxAndBenefits/PensionsAndRetirement/StatePension/index.htm?cids=Google_PPC&cre=Money

I am disabled; can I apply for UK benefits?
For further information on UK benefits, please go to www.direct.gov.uk 

Who can assist me with information in respect of if I am entitled to any German pension or benefits?
For those that have chosen to live within the economy of another country, the MOD has no control over such matters and individuals are advised to contact the relevant department in their local Stadt. 

Who can assist with German tax allowances in respect of UK tax and UK pensions?
This is a specialist area outside the remit of HQ UKSC.  It is advised that any Veteran experiencing these difficulties contacts a tax specialist.

KEEPING IN TOUCH

I would like to stay in touch with Veterans and the military community, how do I do this?
The Installation Access Pass allows links into leisure and sporting facilities which will unite the Veteran and Military communities

Another avenue to meet up with fellow Veterans is through the Royal British Legion.  For further details on how to join, please go to http://www.bfgnet.de/Command/legion.htm. 

The “What’s New” page on BFGnet also holds details of reunions.  For further details please go to http://www.bfgnet.de/BFGVets_News.html.
Please let us know if you are holding a reunion and we will publish the event for you.  Details should be sent to GSG-G1-VETERANS@mod.uk

There are also numerous websites for Veterans including Regimental Associations.  It is advised that you use your search engine to find the best site for purpose.

SHOPPING IN THE NAAFI

Can I shop in the NAAFI?
HQ UKSC is pleased to announce the introduction of the pilot scheme allowing Veterans to shop in NAAFI retail outlets with effect from Monday 2 August 2010.

Veterans in receipt of a VIAP and a “Pink Card” can shop for any non-rationed item in the NAAFI.

Veterans in receipt of a VIAP but not in possession of a “Pink Card” can still use the NAAFI to purchase goods for immediate consumption only.

Full details of the process to enable shopping in the NAAFI can be found at www.BFGnet.de and follow the links for NAAFI shopping. Please note: the BFPO system cannot be used for the application to C&I

How long does the process take to obtain the Pink Card?
As the pilot scheme allowing Veterans to shop in the NAAFI has just been launched it is difficult to establish how long the process will take.  HQ UKSC Customs and Immigration (C&I) will endeavour to process application forms as quickly as possible and the issue of the Pink Card is dependant on individual Zollamt rulings although it is anticipated that it can be issued on the day.  Please note; as the pilot has just been launched, some teething problems may occur.  If a Veteran experiences any difficulties they should, in the first instance, address them with their local Zollamt or the NAAFI Manager (dependant on where the problem occurs) before contacting this HQ.  If a Veteran experiences difficulties that can not be overcome, they should contact the Veterans Initiative giving full details of the problem encountered and measures taken thus far to resolve the issue.

My VIAP is due to expire in less than a year; can I still apply to shop in the NAAFI?
Providing your VIAP still has at least 6 months until it expires, you can still apply to shop in the NAAFI.  Veterans in possession of a VIAP that is due to expire can re-apply 6 months prior to the expiry date for a new one.

I am a widow/er and have a VIAP, can I shop in the NAAFI?
Yes you can.  Wherever the term “Veteran” is used, widows/ers with VIAPs are included.

What am I allowed to purchase in the NAAFI?
All Veterans, in receipt of a VIAP and Pink Card can purchase any non-rationed item for sale in NAAFI retail outlets.  Veterans are not allowed to purchase rationed items.  Veterans with or without the Pink Card, who are in possession of a VIAP, are still able to purchase goods for immediate consumption.

What are rationed items?
Rationed items are coffee, Gin, Whisky and tobacco products.

Why are Veterans not able to purchase rationed items?
This concession has not been extended to Veterans by the German Authorities.  To purchase any rationed item is a violation of the Pink Card which will be revoked.

Will I need to produce my Pink Card every time I purchase something from the NAAFI?
Providing you have a VIAP, you can still purchase goods for immediate consumption without a Pink Card.  You do not have to keep your receipts for goods for immediate consumption.
For goods that are not for immediate consumption, you will need to show your Pink Card at the till to show that you are entitled to purchase the goods.  The NAAFI will only record purchases of over €250 or more on your Pink Card.  You must keep all your receipts, regardless of how much you spend, (less goods for immediate consumption) to take to the Zollamt.

Will I need to produce my Pink Card when buying goods for immediate consumption on the premises?
Providing you have a VIAP, you can still purchase goods for immediate consumption without using your Pink Card and therefore you do not need to keep your receipt for immediate consumption items.  Please note that these items MUST be purchased separately if you are also intending to shop in the NAAFI for non-rationed items on the same visit.

I do not have a Pink Card; can I still shop in the NAAFI?
Providing you are in possession of a VIAP, you can shop in the NAAFI for goods for immediate consumption only.

What goods are classed as “immediate consumption”?
In NAAFI retail outlets, you may only purchase a maximum of 5 items from the products for immediate consumption list; the following only are classed as immediate consumption items:

Sandwich                                   Prepared pie, pasty etc
Fresh Fruit                                 Prepared salads and dips
Packet of crisps etc                    “Pot Noodle” style ready meal    
Newspaper                                 Greetings Card
Non-alcoholic drink (not squash or other concentrate)
                    
You are still able to dine in NAAFI dining facilities such as the café’s and JB’s      

Why do purchases of €250 or more have to be recorded on the Pink Card?
This is a measure requested by the German Authorities to highlight any potential misuse of the card.  There are no extra tax implications (at present) for items recorded on the Pink Card.

Why do I have to pay tax/duty?
The Forces Custom Law has been changed to recognise Veterans as being entitled to use facilities of the Force.  However retired members (Veterans) are not covered by the SOFA and Supplementary Agreements and therefore the tax free concession is not authorised by the German Authorities.  Veterans are reminded that the process, Pink Card and tax/duty levy for shopping in the NAAFI is the same as that used by US Veterans, resident in Germany, for shopping in the US Military facilities.

Why is the tax/duty different than that charged in the German shops?
The amount of tax/duty to be paid by Veterans has been laid down by the German Authorities.  The agreement by the German Government to allow Veterans to shop in the NAAFI is bound by very complex agreements including both German and British tax and duty rulings.  Therefore the process cannot be changed.    

What if I am not given a receipt?
The NAAFI staff should always issue you a till receipt however it is recognised that sometimes mistakes are made.  It is the Veterans responsibility to ensure that they receive a till receipt when purchasing goods from the NAAFI, regardless of the amount (less goods for immediate consumption purchased separately).

The process seems very complicated, can it be made simpler?
The agreement by the German Government to allow Veterans to shop in the NAAFI is bound by very complex agreements including both German and British tax and duty rulings.  Therefore the process cannot be changed.  Veterans are reminded that the process, Pink Card and tax/duty levy for shopping in the NAAFI is the same as that used by US Veterans, resident in Germany, for shopping in the US Military facilities

What if I do not produce all my receipts to the Zollamt/is this system open to misuse?
This HQ trusts the integrity of the Veteran to comply with the conditions of use of the Pink Card.  Both C&I and the German Authorities can audit the relevant documentation at any time to ensure that there is no misuse.  If any violations take place, the Pink Card will be removed for a period of 6 months and permanently if further misuse occurs.

What if I cannot get to my local Zollamt (Stadt Customs Office) by the 5th working day of the following month?
If you are aware that you cannot meet this commitment, you must speak with your local office regarding alternative arrangements.  All matters relating to tax and the Zollamt are the Veterans responsibility.

Do I have to report to the Zollamt if I did not purchase anything from the NAAFI the previous month?
No, you will not have to - Veterans only have to report to the Zollamt if they purchased non-rationed items from the NAAFI, the previous month.

How do I find my local Zollamt?
Your local Stadt will be able to provide you with the details.  Alternatively you can use your internet Search Engine e.g. “Zollamt Gutersloh” to find your nearest office and opening times.

What happens when my Pink Card expires?
When the permit expires, the Veteran can reapply for another permit following the process detailed above.  Applications to C&I can be made one month prior to the expiry of the Pink Card.

Why has my application for shopping to C&I been rejected because I have used the BFPO system?
The BFPO system is only for the use of members of the force, the civilian component, their members and dependants.  Therefore to use the BFPO system as a Veteran outside of this caveat is not permissible.  Veterans must use the German postal system (and stamps) when submitting their application to C&I.  Any application made using the BFPO system will automatically be rejected.

STAYING IN GERMANY

Is there a “Staying in Germany” booklet?
The HIVE has produced a booklet – A Veteran’s Guide to BFG. To find out where your nearest HIVE is to pick up a copy please go to www.hive-bfg.co.uk

What support is available for those discharging into the Germany community?
Choosing to settle in Germany is a personal issue and certain matters such a tax and welfare support varies from Stadt to Stadt.  RCMO’s and the Career Transition Partnership (CTP) can assist with advice on certain matters regarding settlement in Germany, such as employment. 

I have settled in Germany, am I entitled to any training now that I am a Veteran?
The Career Transition Partnership (CTP) has now extended its role towards Veterans.  CTP as part of the Regular Forces Employment Association (RFEA) has been helping Service leavers to find suitable employment in their regions for many years.  A new member of staff is now employed to specifically help those veterans who left the Forces more than 2 years ago.  The CTP would be glad to hear from you if you would like to provide them with employer network contacts or any kind of information (articles, websites…anything) that you found important or helpful when settling in Germany.  Please contact Andrea and Anne on 05221 9953675 or Mil 82 3675 or e-mail auemann@ctp.org.uk or rfeaherford@ctp.org.uk

SUPPORT FOR VETERANS

I am experiencing some difficulties; who can help?
The Royal British Legion (RBL) can assist on a number of matters.  For further details please go to http://www.bfgnet.de/Command/legion.htm. 

The Service Personnel and Veterans Agency (SPVA) can be contacted in respect of a number of issues affecting Veterans.  They can be contacted on 0044 800 169 2277 or you can visit their website at http://www.veterans-uk.info/about_us/about_us.html

Can I access any Support Groups run by the military community?
At present, JIGSAW is the only on-going support group in Germany.  This group is for patients, carers and anyone affected by cancer and is open to Veterans and their dependants.  For further details go to www.jigsawbfg.co.uk
If you are aware of any other support groups, running in your area, please let the Veterans Initiative know and we will ask if Veterans can join.

TRAINING & EMPLOYMENT

Am I entitled to any training now that I am a Veteran?
The Career Transition Partnership (CTP) has now extended its role towards Veterans.  CTP as part of the Regular Forces Employment Association (RFEA) has been helping Service leavers to find suitable employment in their regions for many years.  A new member of staff is now employed to specifically help those veterans who left the Forces more than 2 years ago.  The CTP would be glad to hear from you if you would like to provide them with employer network contacts or any kind of information (articles, websites…anything) that you found important or helpful when settling in Germany.  Please contact Andrea and Anne on 05221 9953675 or Mil 82 3675 or e-mail auemann@ctp.org.uk or rfeaherford@ctp.org.uk

There appear to be very few jobs for Veterans within the military community. Is it true that jobs are moving towards Dependant posts?  Can we look at historic % of DEL v DEP?
It should be pointed out that the percentage of Dep posts relative to DEL has remained broadly unchanged over previous years; however the reason why only Dep jobs (which are mainly part-time) are advertised in Sixth Sense is because of a legal issue.  That is, we must offer all vacant DEL post to those DEL who are potential redundees - even before notice has actually been served”.

MISCELLANEOUS

How do I apply for a Veterans Badge?
Veterans can apply for their Veterans Badge by going to http://www.veterans-uk.info/vets_badge/vets_badge.htm

When is JHQ due to close?
At present there is no new information about the proposed future of JHQ.  Any news will be published in both BFG and German newspapers and on the bfgnet
http://www.bfgnet.de/index.html

I miss some British foods; do you know where I can buy them in Germany? 
It may be of some assistance to know that certain UK foods can be purchased on the internet.  It is advised that you use your search engine with key words such as “British food on the internet” to find a company that will deliver to Germany.

How can I find out about other issues affecting Veterans?
A source of information that you may find helpful is the Veterans Agency website http://www.veterans-uk.info/index.html

When is the next Veterans Day?
The next Veterans Day will be in 2011.  Once we know more details, they will be published on http://www.bfgnet.de/BFGVets.html

Can I vote in UK elections whilst living overseas?
Information regarding voting from overseas can be found at http://www.aboutmyvote.co.uk/register_to_vote/british_citizens_living_abroad.aspx

Updated 14 Dec 10