Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Is Emergency Evacuation Program (EEP) mandatory?
A1. Department of State (DOS) and/or Department of Defense (DOD) may order an evacuation of U.S. citizens in the event of a contingency. U.S. personnel can waive their right to be evacuated, in advance, by signing the "Waiver of Evacuation Opportunity" form in TAB 6 section of the EEP Packet link. Single Soldiers do not have to fill out an EEP Packet, unless they are currently in certain categories such as a pregnant female Soldier.

Q2. Is completing the EEP Packet mandatory?
A2. Completing the EEP Packet, or alternatively signing the waiver form, is required by command policy.

Q3. Why the emphasis on EEP in Japan?
A3. The local senior service commander has the prerogative to elevate his force protection measures and mission readiness and procedures. Currently, there are no specific or imminent threats, warning or indicators of a contingency that would necessitate an EEP. However, the perceived 'safety' of Japan should not lull us into a complacent posture. Japan is an earthquake and typhoon country (i.e. March 11, 2011, Great East Japan Earthquake); weather patterns have wrecked havoc around the world; North Korea has launched missiles over Japan; and there are possibilities of pandemic threats. It is only prudent military planning to raise the level of awareness and readiness for any unusual occurrence.

Q4. What if personnel (military or civilian) refuse to comply?
A4. Completing the EEP Packet is mandatory.

Q5. How long does it take to fill out the forms?
A5. There are various forms to fill in, but most are just asking for basic biographical information on the sponsor and family member(s). Some are not necessary to fill out (for example, if you do not have a pet). Assuming that information is readily available, it should take about 1 hour to fill in the required information.

Q6. Do I need to provide originals of my passports, visas, ID cards, marriage and birth certificates?
A6. No, copies are sufficient for the EEP Packet inspection.

Q7. Who will see my Personal Identification Information (PII)?
A7. Inspection personnel are just interested in ensuring that the documentation is in your EEP Packet. Your EEP Packet will be safeguarded by you and carried through en evacuation.

Q8. Can I use duty time to complete the EEP Packet documentation?
A8. Yes. It’s a required task.

Q9. Will there be other EEP requirements in the future?
A9. Yes, there may be periodic EEP Packet inspections and EEP processing exercises.

Q10. I’ve always known this program as noncombatant evacuation operations or NEO. Is this an additional program?
A10. No. The EEP is the version now being used in Japan and replaces what was previously known as NEO. However, NEO is still used in Korea for their designated program.