Izmir AS  Base Essentials

You can call the Command Support Staff within one duty day of arrival for an in-processing appointment. All military personnel are authorized a civilian clothing allowance make sure this is on your Permanent Change of Station Orders prior and you receive it prior to departing your current duty station. Please request information through your current assigned Military Personnel Flight. They will need to reference the Foreign Clearance Guide this will talk about NATO orders as well.

There is a mandatory Newcomer's Orientation held once a month. Your sponsor should help you get settled during your first few days on station. Also 425 Air Base Squadron Airman and Family Readiness Center and other support agencies will be there to help you. Don't try to do it alone use the base resources. We're here to make your relocation as smooth and painless as possible for both you and your family.

It is highly recommended that 30 days prior to your arrival that your sponsor should start your Foreign Identification Number paperwork through the Turkish NATO Customs office located in Building 1.  It requires your signature and you will need to provide a photo copy of your Tourist Passport. You will then email it to your sponsor and they will in-turn submit it on your behalf. This will save you a lot of time. Without a U.S. Tourist Passport you will not be able to apply and receive a Foreign Identification number from the Turkish government. This Foreign Identification is also used to pay your monthly rent and set up WI-FI in your apartment etc.

Temporary Lodging Reservations

Once you email a scanned copy of your Permanent Change of Station Orders to your sponsor they can make the hotel reservation for you through our Reservations Office.

Command Sponsorship

Izmir is unaccompanied 12 month tour therefore there is no Command sponsorship.

Housing

Izmir does not have base housing or a military style infrastructure that you would find at other assignments. All personnel live on the economy generally in apartments in the city center. Most apartments are roomy and more than adequate with availability of parks and outdoor activities. Distance from the city center to work centers is approximately 10-14 miles and is generally accessed via the public bus, subway, train, tram and ferry boat system. 

You are authorized to ship your vehicle to Izmir.  A few things to know in advance.  Initial vehicle registration and insurance for a vehicle will cost on average $550.  The fees will vary based on what broker you use to get your vehicle registered.  As long as your vehicle isn't very large vehicle (for example: F150 Truck, SUV Cadillac or Durango etc.) a smaller or medium size vehicle will make it easy for you to get around town and out into the other Turkish provinces. Make sure you ask your sponsor if Izmir has a maintenance facility for your make/model of vehicle. Parking in the city center for private vehicles can be difficult but parking spots can be found. Also there is parking in the Hilton Hotel which you can acquire and combine it into your Apartment Rental Agreement to cover the parking expenses. Ask Housing.

Schools

Izmir does not have DODDS Schools.

Child Care

Izmir does not have a Child Development Center.

Health Care

Izmir does not have a base hospital or clinic. All care is provided by local physicians and hospitals through the TRICARE EUROPE program.

Your sponsor can be a huge asset to you by sending you information on Izmir your duty section the local community, things to do and places to go. You will receive a “Izmir Welcome Guide” with information on Izmir facilities, programs, the city, and the local community. In addition please feel free to contact the 425 Air Base Squadron Airman & Family Readiness Center at DSN: 314-675-6638 or Commercial 011-90-232-455-6638 or email the A&FRC Point of contact. The email address is listed on the Cover page of the "Izmir Welcome Guide".