I'm planning to hop over to Germany and travel around Europe. As a retiree, can I use the BX overseas?

2018-07-05T15:41:04-04:00

Response by CSM Thomas McGarry made Jul 5 at 2018 3:51 PM

2018-07-05T15:51:02-04:00

I believe you can but if you are planning on staying at the Edelweiss Hotel in Garmisch which is the Armed Forces Recreation Center in Germany I think because of status of forces agreements with Germany you need to be station overseas or a retiree living in Germany. Personally I think this stinks but if anyone has updated info on this please post!

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made Jul 10 at 2018 7:51 PM

2018-07-10T19:51:46-04:00

Yes, sometimes. However you may find it difficult to get on Base other than Rhanstein. If you do use the BX you are required to pay the local Tax. There are Customs officials in each base that can enforce the rule. This was at least as of 2014. Thank you for your service.

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Jul 11 at 2018 10:24 AM

2018-07-11T10:24:34-04:00

Yes,

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 11 at 2018 3:08 PM

2018-07-11T15:08:43-04:00

As I understand it, you have to have a form to pay the German VAT tax for purchases in the PX/BX in Germany as a retiree. It may be difficult getting on base.

Response by MSgt Stephen Council made Jul 11 at 2018 4:16 PM

2018-07-11T16:16:46-04:00

MSgt Brian Williams That depends entirely on the SOFA that was signed between the country and the United States. In Turkey the short answer is no. I cannot speak to other countries SOFA rules. In Japan, the short answer is yes.

Response by PO2 Stefan Pentcholov made Sep 6 at 2020 9:29 PM

2020-09-06T21:29:07-04:00

Sure, SOFA rules are paramount, but a Base access with your ID is all you need...I have done it in Bulgaria, as a Active Duty/ non- retiree Military.