Welcome to the ultimate guide on how to survive the “Invasion of the Relatives” AKA how to sign in visitors on Kadena AB (Air Base) while living here! Just like a surprise visit from your in-laws, having friends and family descend upon you in this tropical paradise can be both a blessing and a curse. All jokes aside, it is a huge privilege to show your friends and family around this beautiful island, but it is important to make sure you plan ahead to obtain the necessary permissions to sign in visitors on Kadena AB.

The 18^th Security Forces Squadron Pass and Registration issues passes at Gate 1 and Gate 2 Visitor Control Center (VCC). Gate 1 VCC is open 7 days a week from 0600-2200 hours. Gate 2 VCC is open 7 days a week from 0600-0100 hours.

Escort Authority When You Sign in Visitors on Kadena AB

The following individuals may sponsor/escort visitors on Kadena AB:

• DoD personnel possessing a Common Access Card (CAC)
• DoD dependents (16 years of age or older)
• Retired military personnel
• 100% disabled veterans
• DBIDS card holders with escort authority

The escort ratio is 4 guests to 1 escort official, meaning 1 person with escort authority can sponsor 4 individuals onto the installation.

Escorted Visitor Pass

Escorted visitor passes may not exceed 96 hours, dependent on the purpose of the visit.

Sponsors must escort their guests at all times while on base. To sign in visitors on Kadena AB you will need to physically escort them onto the installation, and they must stay within physical custody of the sponsor, within the sponsor’s residence or immediate public areas adjacent to the sponsor’s residence.

The sponsor/escort will also be subject to possible adverse judicial or administrative action for failure to maintain control of the visitor. Unauthorized photography of the flight line, aircraft, and restricted areas is strictly prohibited. Violators will be subject to applicable administrative action. Violating or failure to comply with these instructions may result in the loss of escort authority.

Unescorted Visitor Pass

The Unescorted Extended Stay Visitor Pass is for residents who live on Kadena AB, Chibana housing, and O’Donnell Gardens housing area, with visitors who do not reside on the main island of Okinawa. Visitors will be issued an unescorted visitor pass for up to 90 days and will not exceed the expiration date of the Japanese landing permission stamped on their passport. Requests for this pass must be submitted to Pass and Registration Office via email no later than 10 business days prior to the visit to allow adequate time for fitness determination and approval.

SOFA status individuals who live off-base cannot request the Unescorted Extended Stay Visitor Pass. For the memorandum template and further questions, please email: 18sfs.s5b.pass-registration@us.af.mil.

Guest in Quarters

For any guest of more than 72 hours, you must submit the Guest in Quarters form with Kadena’s housing office. The fillable form can be found on the Okinawa Family Housing website. The form requires the sponsor’s information and each guest’s name, date of birth, passport number and expiry date. Bring the signed form to the housing office, or email: kadenahousing.customerservice@us.af.mil.

International Driving Permit for Non-SOFA Guests

An international driving permit is issued in the United States by the American Automobile Association (AAA), and is required of short-term visitors who wish to drive in Japan. IDPs must be obtained prior to arriving in Japan; they cannot be obtained in Japan. You must also have a valid U.S. state license in addition to an IDP to drive in Japan.

Driving in Japan for short-term guests can be quite complicated. They will need to understand the road signs and switch to the left-side of the road. Japanese accident and liability laws are different than in the U.S. as well as different DUI laws. If your visitors insist on obtaining an IDP, ensure they understand the laws and risks of foreign driving.

Facility Use For Your Visitors on Kadena AB

The sponsor/escort authority must accompany visitors to make purchases at the Commissary or Base Exchange since a valid ID card is required at these locations. Visitors on Kadena AB may purchase food at the food court and kiosk stands at the BX on their own. If your visitors want to use the gyms on base, Risner or Habu, ensure they bring their visitor pass with them and only go during staffed hours. Remember, if your guest only has an escorted pass, the sponsor must accompany them everywhere they go.

The whirlwind of chaos that comes with guest visits may feel like your own personal typhoon, but rest assured that the process can be stress-free with proper preparation. I hope you feel confident when the time comes for you to sign in visitors on Kadena AB!

Looking for more? Check out these other popular articles on moving to Okinawa.