Are you a Foreign Service employee wondering about emergency travel benefits? This guide, brought to you by SIXT.VN, explains Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT) benefits for eligible individuals needing to travel due to family emergencies. Learn about eligibility, categories, and funding to navigate these critical situations with confidence. With our insights, plan your trips efficiently and ensure you’re well-prepared. Explore resources for international travel, visa assistance, and travel insurance.
1. What is Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT)?
Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT) is a crucial benefit that allows eligible U.S. Government employees and their family members to travel at government expense from their post of assignment to the United States, or other locations, during certain family emergencies. This benefit is designed to support Foreign Service employees stationed abroad and aims to provide assistance during times of urgent family needs. According to the U.S. Department of State Foreign Affairs Manual, EVT covers specific emergency situations, including medical emergencies, deaths, eldercare needs, and more.
1.1 What is the Purpose of Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT)?
The purpose of EVT is to provide a safety net for Foreign Service employees facing urgent family matters. EVT policies ensure that employees can address critical family situations without incurring significant personal financial burden. The U.S. Department of State emphasizes that EVT is authorized on a case-by-case basis, ensuring that each situation is carefully evaluated to meet the specific needs of the employee and their family. This support is vital, considering the unique challenges of serving abroad, such as geographic isolation and limited access to family support networks.
1.2 Who is Eligible for Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT)?
Eligibility for EVT extends to all Foreign Service employees stationed abroad, including Civil Service employees on limited non-career appointments (LNAs), and certain eligible family members (EFMs) residing at the employee’s post of assignment. This includes spouses, domestic partners, and dependent children. The U.S. Department of State’s Foreign Affairs Manual clarifies that locally-employed staff are eligible for EVT only if they are spouses or domestic partners of eligible employees. This ensures that those most closely connected to the employee receive the necessary support during emergencies.
Alt: A happy family with luggage at an airport, embarking on a journey after receiving EVT support.
1.3 When is Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT) Authorized?
EVT is authorized under six specific categories, each designed to address different types of family emergencies:
- Medical: When an immediate family member is seriously ill or injured with imminent death expected, as determined by the Bureau of Medical Services (MED).
- Death: When an immediate family member of the employee or their spouse/domestic partner dies.
- Eldercare: When a parent becomes incapacitated and travel is necessary to assess their need for new living arrangements or care.
- New Child: When a non-birth parent needs to care for a spouse/domestic partner giving birth or receive a new child through adoption, fostering, or surrogacy.
- Unaccompanied Post: When an employee at an unaccompanied post is seriously wounded or becomes critically ill, requiring a family member’s presence.
- Unusual Personal Hardship: For urgent family visitation needs in situations involving personal hardship not covered in the other categories.
According to the Foreign Affairs Manual, each category has specific requirements and approval processes to ensure that EVT is used appropriately.
2. What Are The Key Categories of Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT)?
Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT) is categorized into six distinct types, each addressing specific urgent needs of Foreign Service employees. Understanding these categories is essential for navigating the EVT process effectively. These categories include Medical, Death, Eldercare, New Child, Unaccompanied Post, and Unusual Personal Hardship. Each category has its own set of eligibility criteria and procedures, ensuring that employees receive the appropriate support tailored to their situation.
2.1 How Does Medical Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT) Work?
Medical EVT is designated for situations where an immediate family member of the employee or their spouse/domestic partner is critically ill or injured, and their death is expected within days. The Bureau of Medical Services (MED) makes this determination after consulting with the family member’s physician. According to the U.S. Department of State’s guidelines, post approves medical EVT upon recommendation from MED and provides the fund citations. This ensures that employees can be with their loved ones during the most critical times.
2.2 What is Covered Under Death Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT)?
Death EVT is authorized when an immediate family member of the employee or their spouse/domestic partner dies. This also covers situations where the employee or an eligible family member residing at the post of assignment dies. Eligible individuals may travel to the funeral or place of interment in the United States or abroad. The Office of Employee Relations (GTM/ER) approves death EVTs, and post provides the fund citations. This support helps employees manage the logistical and emotional challenges of dealing with a death in the family while serving abroad.
2.3 When Can You Use Eldercare Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT)?
Eldercare EVT is applicable when a parent of the employee or their spouse/domestic partner becomes temporarily or permanently incapacitated. This travel is necessary to assess the parent’s need for new living arrangements or other forms of care. The Office of Employee Relations (GTM/ER) approves eldercare EVTs, and the Division of Resource Management (GTM/EX/RMD) provides the fund citations. The U.S. Department of State recognizes the importance of supporting employees in managing the care of aging parents, ensuring they can make informed decisions about their parents’ well-being.
2.4 How Does New Child Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT) Support Families?
New Child EVT allows a non-birth parent to travel from their post to care for a spouse/domestic partner giving birth in another country. It also covers travel for non-birth parents to receive a new child/children through adoption, fostering, or surrogacy. Post provides the fund citation for New Child EVTs. This category recognizes the challenges and hardships that Foreign Service families may face when welcoming a new child, ensuring they receive support during this significant life event.
Alt: A loving mother embracing her child in Ha Giang, illustrating the family support provided by New Child EVT.
2.5 What Are the Guidelines for Unaccompanied Post Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT)?
Unaccompanied Post EVT is designated for employees on official duty at an unaccompanied post who are seriously wounded or become critically ill. In such cases, they are medevaced to another medical facility, and a family member’s presence is deemed medically required. The Office of Casualty Assistance (GTM/OCA) approves and State’s regional bureaus fund unaccompanied post EVT. This benefit ensures that employees in high-risk locations receive the necessary family support during medical emergencies.
2.6 What Constitutes Unusual Personal Hardship Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT)?
Unusual Personal Hardship EVT covers circumstances not outlined in the other categories but still merit urgent travel for family visitation. These situations involve personal hardship for an immediate family member of an employee or their spouse/domestic partner. GTM/ER approves these EVTs, and post provides the fund cite. The U.S. Department of State evaluates these requests on a case-by-case basis, providing a flexible option for addressing unforeseen and critical family needs.
3. What Are the Travel Limitations and Funding Aspects of Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT)?
Understanding the travel limitations and funding aspects of Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT) is crucial for employees to effectively utilize this benefit. These guidelines cover various aspects such as direct vs. indirect travel, fare types, authorized expenses, and funding sources. By being aware of these limitations, employees can ensure they adhere to the regulations and maximize the benefits available to them.
3.1 What Are the Restrictions on Travel for Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT)?
EVT requires direct travel, adhering to the most direct, usually traveled, and economical route between the post and the EVT location. According to 14 FAM 580 and 14 FAM 585, travelers must comply with applicable requirements. If an employee is on TDY when EVT is authorized, the itinerary is from the TDY location to the EVT location and back, unless the employee will not resume duties at the TDY location. However, if the EVT destination is outside the United States, EVT will be cost-constructed.
3.2 Can You Engage in Indirect Travel with Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT)?
Yes, travelers can engage in indirect travel (cost-construct) against the value of the authorized direct itinerary. However, the airfare costs exceeding the value of the direct itinerary must be paid by the traveler. The Fly America Act applies to indirect (cost-constructed) travel, and Seat Selection Policy (SSP) is not authorized for cost-constructed travel.
3.3 What Type of Airfare is Authorized for Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT)?
The employee’s post of assignment determines the authorized fare type (restricted or unrestricted) for EVTs commencing from that post. This ensures that the fare type aligns with the operational needs and budget considerations of the post.
3.4 How Does Cost-Constructed Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT) Work Outside the United States?
When the EVT destination is outside the United States, the traveler’s authorized itinerary is from the post to the employee’s service separation residence address and back to post. The employee will need to cost-construct (engage in indirect travel) against the value of the authorized itinerary. According to 14 FAM 536.2-4, employees are not required to cost-construct if the location of the person being visited is abroad due to the employee’s assignment abroad.
3.5 What Expenses Are Reimbursed Under Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT)?
Reimbursement may not exceed allowable transportation expenses actually incurred. The authorized class of service for EVT is economy class. However, a traveler may elect to cost-construct to actually use a class of service other than the one authorized. First-class and business-class accommodations are not authorized unless the Medical Director approves a specific exception under 14 FAM 523.2.
3.6 What Are the Authorized and Unauthorized Expenses for Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT)?
Authorized expenses include:
- Round-trip airfare
- Mandatory airport taxes
- Connecting transportation between airports
- Two pieces of checked luggage weighing up to 50 lbs (23 kg) each, as per 14 FAM 568.1
- Seat selection policy (SSP) if authorized by the funding office under the provisions of 14 FAM 567.2-1
Unauthorized expenses include:
- Excess baggage or unaccompanied baggage charges
- Local transportation to and from the airport (except for unaccompanied post EVT)
- Per diem (except for unaccompanied post EVT)
3.7 Who Funds Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT) Expenses?
Transportation costs for Department of State employees are funded as follows:
- Medical EVT, Death EVT, Unusual Personal Hardship, Unaccompanied Post, and New Child EVT are funded at post using funds from the employing office/bureau.
- Eldercare EVT is centrally funded by GTM.
For other agencies, transportation costs for employees of the Department of Agriculture, USAGM, and USAID are paid by the employee’s agency using a fund citation provided to post. Costs for employees of the Department of Commerce are paid centrally.
4. How Does Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT) Affect Other Types of Leave and Benefits?
Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT) can influence other benefits such as home leave, family visitation travel, and post differential. Understanding these effects is essential for employees to plan their travel and leave effectively. This section clarifies how EVT interacts with these benefits, ensuring that employees can maximize their entitlements while adhering to the relevant regulations.
4.1 How Does Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT) Impact Home Leave Eligibility?
Time spent in the United States delays the date of home leave eligibility only if the employee has not already accumulated 12 or 18 months of continuous service abroad, as applicable, by the time EVT is initiated. According to 3 FAM 3430 and 3 FAH-1 H-3430, if the employee has already met the continuous service requirement, EVT will not affect their home leave eligibility.
4.2 What Is the Waiting Period Between Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT) and Family Visitation Travel?
If an employee is eligible for family visitation travel, there must be a waiting period of at least 3 months following the employee’s return to post from emergency visitation travel before they can depart on family visitation travel to the same location. Exceptions to this waiting period may be made for valid reasons by principal officers and heads of Agriculture, USAGM, Commerce, and USAID establishments abroad or their designees, if post workload and scheduling considerations permit.
4.3 How Does Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT) Affect Post Differential?
Post differential that was terminated during a period of absence from post is re-instituted as of the date of return to the differential post. This ensures that employees receive the appropriate compensation for serving at hardship locations, even when they need to take emergency travel.
4.4 How Is Leave Charged During Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT)?
Consistent with 3 FAM 3463, employees are granted transit time while in travel status during EVT, meaning they are not charged leave while traveling to and from the destination of emergency visitation travel. Travel status will be calculated up to a maximum amount of time, which equates to the most direct and usually traveled route from the post of assignment to the place of emergency. The return trip to post is treated the same.
4.5 What Types of Leave Can Be Used for Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT)?
Time away from post (other than while in travel status) for emergency visitation is charged to annual leave, sick leave, compensatory time, or leave without pay, as appropriate. For information on using sick leave to care for an immediate family member or the maximum amount of sick leave that may be used, see 3 FAM 3423 and 3 FAH-1 H-3424.
4.6 Can Employees Invoke the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) During Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT)?
Yes, employees traveling on New Child EVT may also be eligible to invoke their entitlement to FMLA leave and paid parental leave, in accordance with 3 FAM 3530. For general information on invoking the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), see 3 FAM 3530.
5. What Are Some Real-World Examples of Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT)?
Understanding real-world examples can help Foreign Service employees better grasp how Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT) applies in different scenarios. These examples cover various situations, including medical emergencies, deaths, eldercare needs, and new child arrivals. By reviewing these cases, employees can gain insights into the practical application of EVT and prepare themselves for similar circumstances.
5.1 How Does Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT) Work in a Medical Emergency Scenario?
Example: An employee stationed in Hanoi, Vietnam, receives news that their mother in the United States has suffered a severe stroke and is in critical condition. The Bureau of Medical Services (MED) confirms the severity of the situation, stating that her death is imminent.
EVT Application: The employee is authorized for Medical EVT to travel to the United States to be with their mother during this critical time. The post approves the EVT based on MED’s recommendation and provides the necessary fund citations.
Alt: A comforting family member visiting a patient in a hospital room, highlighting the importance of Medical EVT.
5.2 How Does Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT) Apply in the Event of a Death?
Example: A Foreign Service Officer (FSO) serving in Berlin, Germany, learns that their father has passed away unexpectedly in the United States.
EVT Application: The FSO is authorized for Death EVT to travel to the United States to attend the funeral and burial services. The Office of Employee Relations (GTM/ER) approves the EVT, and the post provides the fund citations, enabling the FSO to grieve with their family.
5.3 How Can Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT) Be Used for Eldercare Needs?
Example: An employee working at the U.S. Embassy in Rome, Italy, receives information that their elderly father has become incapacitated after a fall and can no longer live independently.
EVT Application: The employee is authorized for Eldercare EVT to travel to the United States to assess their father’s living situation and make arrangements for his care. The Department of State’s Office of Employee Relations (GTM/ER) approves the EVT, and the Department’s Division of Resource Management (GTM/EX/RMD) provides the fund citations.
5.4 How Does Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT) Support Families Welcoming a New Child?
Example: A non-birth parent assigned to an unaccompanied post in Kabul, Afghanistan, needs to travel to the United States where their spouse is giving birth.
EVT Application: The non-birth parent is authorized for New Child EVT to travel to the United States to support their spouse and welcome their new child. The post provides the fund citation for the New Child EVT, allowing the parent to be present during this significant event.
5.5 What Happens When Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT) is Needed from an Unaccompanied Post?
Example: An employee serving at an unaccompanied post in a high-risk area is seriously injured and medevaced to a hospital in Germany.
EVT Application: The State’s Office of Casualty Assistance (GTM/OCA) approves Unaccompanied Post EVT for the employee’s spouse to travel to Germany to be with the employee. State’s regional bureaus fund the travel, ensuring the employee receives the necessary support during their medical treatment.
5.6 When Can Unusual Personal Hardship Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT) Be Utilized?
Example: An employee stationed in London, UK, has a sibling who is diagnosed with a rare and severe medical condition requiring urgent family support.
EVT Application: The employee applies for Unusual Personal Hardship EVT, which is evaluated by GTM/ER on a case-by-case basis. Upon approval, the post provides the fund cite, enabling the employee to travel and provide essential support to their sibling during this challenging time.
6. Navigating Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT): Step-by-Step Guide
Effectively navigating Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT) requires understanding the application process, required documentation, and key points of contact. This step-by-step guide provides a clear roadmap for Foreign Service employees to follow when facing an emergency situation. By understanding each step, employees can streamline the process and ensure they receive the support they need in a timely manner.
6.1 How to Initiate the Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT) Process
- Step 1: Assess the Situation: Determine if the situation qualifies for EVT under one of the six categories: Medical, Death, Eldercare, New Child, Unaccompanied Post, or Unusual Personal Hardship.
- Step 2: Notify Your Supervisor and Post HR: Inform your supervisor and the post’s Human Resources (HR) department about the emergency. Provide a brief overview of the situation and indicate your intention to request EVT.
6.2 Gathering Necessary Documentation for Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT)
- Step 3: Gather Required Documents: Collect all necessary documentation to support your EVT request. The specific documents required will vary depending on the category of EVT. Examples include:
- Medical EVT: A statement from the Bureau of Medical Services (MED) confirming the severity and imminent nature of the medical condition.
- Death EVT: A copy of the death certificate or other official documentation confirming the death of the family member.
- Eldercare EVT: Medical reports or statements from healthcare providers indicating the parent’s incapacitation and need for care.
- New Child EVT: Documentation related to the birth, adoption, fostering, or surrogacy of the child.
- Unusual Personal Hardship EVT: Detailed explanation of the hardship and any supporting documentation.
6.3 Submitting Your Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT) Request
- Step 4: Complete the EVT Request Form: Obtain the EVT request form from your post’s HR department. Fill out the form accurately and completely, providing all required information.
- Step 5: Submit Your Request: Submit the completed EVT request form along with all supporting documentation to your post’s HR department. Ensure that all documents are clear and legible.
6.4 Understanding the Approval Process for Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT)
- Step 6: Await Approval: The post’s HR department will review your request and forward it to the appropriate approving authority, depending on the category of EVT. For example, Medical EVT requires MED approval, while Death EVT requires GTM/ER approval.
- Step 7: Receive Approval Notification: Once your EVT request is approved, you will receive an official notification from the approving authority. This notification will include details about the authorized travel, including the approved itinerary, fare type, and funding information.
6.5 Arranging Travel and Understanding Reimbursement for Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT)
- Step 8: Arrange Travel: Work with the post’s travel office to arrange your travel. Ensure that your travel arrangements comply with the EVT guidelines, including using U.S.-flag carriers where required and adhering to the authorized class of service (economy class).
- Step 9: Document Expenses: Keep detailed records of all travel-related expenses, including airfare, mandatory airport taxes, and connecting transportation.
- Step 10: Submit Reimbursement Claim: After completing your travel, submit a reimbursement claim to your post’s finance office. Include all necessary documentation, such as receipts and boarding passes.
6.6 Adhering to EVT Guidelines and Seeking Further Assistance
- Step 11: Adhere to EVT Guidelines: Ensure that you comply with all EVT guidelines and restrictions, including those related to direct travel, indirect travel (cost-construction), and authorized expenses.
- Step 12: Seek Assistance: If you have any questions or need further assistance, contact your post’s HR department, the Office of Employee Relations (GTM/ER), or the relevant approving authority.
By following these steps, Foreign Service employees can effectively navigate the EVT process and receive the support they need during family emergencies.
7. How Can SIXT.VN Enhance Your Travel Experience to and from Vietnam?
While Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT) provides essential support for Foreign Service employees during critical times, SIXT.VN offers a range of services to enhance your overall travel experience to and from Vietnam. Whether you need reliable airport transfers, comfortable hotel accommodations, or curated tour experiences, SIXT.VN ensures a seamless and stress-free journey. Our services are designed to cater to the diverse needs of international travelers, making your visit to Vietnam both convenient and memorable.
7.1 Seamless Airport Transfer Services with SIXT.VN
Arriving in a new country can be overwhelming, especially after a long flight. SIXT.VN provides reliable and comfortable airport transfer services, ensuring a smooth transition from the airport to your accommodation. Our professional drivers and well-maintained vehicles offer a hassle-free experience, allowing you to relax and focus on your trip.
- Convenient Booking: Easily book your airport transfer online through our user-friendly platform.
- Professional Drivers: Our experienced drivers are knowledgeable about the local area and committed to providing safe and efficient transportation.
- Variety of Vehicles: Choose from a range of vehicles to suit your needs, whether you’re traveling solo or with a group.
7.2 Comfortable and Convenient Hotel Booking with SIXT.VN
Finding the right accommodation is crucial for a comfortable stay. SIXT.VN offers a wide selection of hotels in Hanoi and other major cities in Vietnam, catering to various budgets and preferences.
- Extensive Hotel Selection: Browse through a diverse range of hotels, from budget-friendly options to luxurious accommodations.
- Competitive Rates: Enjoy competitive rates and exclusive deals when booking your hotel through SIXT.VN.
- Easy Booking Process: Our simple and secure booking process makes it easy to find and reserve the perfect hotel for your needs.
7.3 Explore Hanoi with SIXT.VN’s Curated Tour Experiences
Discover the vibrant culture and rich history of Hanoi with SIXT.VN’s curated tour experiences. Our expertly designed tours offer a unique and immersive way to explore the city’s top attractions and hidden gems.
- Diverse Tour Options: Choose from a variety of tour options, including historical tours, cultural experiences, and culinary adventures.
- Expert Guides: Our knowledgeable guides provide insightful commentary and ensure a memorable and enriching experience.
- Customizable Itineraries: Tailor your tour to suit your interests and preferences, creating a personalized itinerary that meets your needs.
7.4 Reliable Visa Assistance and Travel Insurance through SIXT.VN
Navigating the complexities of international travel can be daunting. SIXT.VN offers reliable visa assistance and travel insurance services to ensure a smooth and worry-free journey.
- Visa Assistance: Our experienced team can assist you with the visa application process, providing guidance and support to ensure compliance with all requirements.
- Travel Insurance: Protect yourself against unforeseen events with our comprehensive travel insurance options, providing coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and more.
7.5 How SIXT.VN Complements Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT)
While EVT addresses emergency travel needs, SIXT.VN enhances your overall travel experience by providing reliable and convenient services for your journeys to and from Vietnam. Whether you are traveling for emergency purposes or leisure, SIXT.VN ensures a seamless and comfortable experience, allowing you to focus on your priorities.
8. Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT) in 2018: A Retrospective Look
While the core principles of Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT) remain consistent, it’s helpful to consider the specific context of 2018. This retrospective look examines key aspects of EVT as they applied in 2018, offering insights into funding mechanisms, policy interpretations, and relevant updates from that period. Understanding the historical context can provide valuable perspective on the evolution of EVT and its ongoing relevance.
8.1 Funding Allocations for Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT) in 2018
In 2018, funding for Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT) was allocated according to established guidelines outlined in the Foreign Affairs Manual. For Department of State employees, funding sources varied depending on the category of EVT:
- Medical EVT, Death EVT, and Unusual Personal Hardship: These were typically funded at the post level using funds from the employing office or bureau.
- Eldercare EVT: Centrally funded by the Department of State’s Bureau of Global Talent Management (GTM).
Other agencies, such as the Department of Agriculture, USAGM, and USAID, utilized agency-specific funding citations provided to the post. The Department of Commerce centrally managed EVT funding for its employees. These funding mechanisms ensured that eligible employees could access the necessary resources for emergency travel.
8.2 Key Policy Updates and Interpretations of Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT) in 2018
In 2018, several policy interpretations and updates helped clarify the scope and application of Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT). These clarifications aimed to address emerging challenges and ensure fair and consistent application of the benefit:
- Eligibility Criteria: Emphasis was placed on adhering to the eligibility criteria outlined in 3 FAM 3743, ensuring that only eligible employees and family members could access EVT benefits.
- Documentation Requirements: Greater scrutiny was applied to documentation requirements to prevent misuse of EVT benefits. Employees were required to provide comprehensive documentation to support their requests, including medical reports, death certificates, and other relevant information.
- Cost-Construction Guidelines: Clear guidelines were provided on cost-construction, ensuring that employees understood the limitations and requirements for indirect travel. This helped prevent confusion and ensured compliance with the Fly America Act.
8.3 Challenges and Considerations for Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT) in 2018
In 2018, several challenges and considerations influenced the administration of Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT):
- Budget Constraints: Budget constraints continued to pose challenges, requiring careful management of EVT funds and prioritization of emergency travel needs.
- Geopolitical Instability: Geopolitical instability in certain regions increased the demand for EVT, particularly for employees serving at unaccompanied posts.
- Policy Awareness: Ensuring that all employees were aware of the EVT policies and procedures remained a priority. The Department of State and other agencies invested in communication and training efforts to promote awareness and understanding.
8.4 Legacy of Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT) in 2018
The policies and practices surrounding Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT) in 2018 laid the groundwork for future improvements and refinements. The experiences and lessons learned during that period continue to inform the administration of EVT, ensuring that it remains a valuable resource for Foreign Service employees facing emergency situations.
9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT)
To further assist Foreign Service employees in understanding Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT), here are some frequently asked questions along with detailed answers. These FAQs cover various aspects of EVT, including eligibility, authorized travel, funding, and leave policies, providing a comprehensive resource for employees seeking clarity on this important benefit.
9.1 Who is Considered an “Immediate Family Member” for Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT) Purposes?
For EVT purposes, an “immediate family member” includes:
- Spouse or domestic partner
- Children (including stepchildren, adopted children, and those under legal guardianship)
- Parents
In the case of death EVT, siblings (including stepbrothers, stepsisters, half-brothers, and half-sisters) are also included.
9.2 Can I Use Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT) to Visit an “In-Law”?
No, an “in-law” (i.e., the parent of your spouse or domestic partner) is not considered an immediate family member for EVT purposes. EVT benefits are generally limited to the employee, spouse, or domestic partner directly related to the family member to be visited.
9.3 How Many Times Can I Use Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT) for the Same Family Member?
Eligible travelers are generally limited to one round-trip for each serious illness, medical condition, or injury of each immediate family member. However, if the traveler returns to post and the family member subsequently dies, death EVT may be requested.
9.4 Can I Use Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT) to Visit a Family Member Outside the United States?
Yes, but with certain limitations. If the EVT destination is outside the United States, the travel will be cost-constructed against an authorized itinerary between your post and your service separation residence address. You are responsible for any costs exceeding the value of this authorized itinerary.
9.5 What Expenses Are Covered Under Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT)?
Covered expenses typically include:
- Round-trip airfare
- Mandatory airport taxes
- Connecting transportation between airports
- Two pieces of checked luggage (up to 50 lbs each)
Expenses such as excess baggage, local transportation, and per diem are generally not authorized, except for unaccompanied post EVT.
9.6 How Does Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT) Affect My Home Leave Eligibility?
Time spent in the United States delays your home leave eligibility only if you have not already accumulated 12 or 18 months of continuous service abroad, as applicable, by the time EVT is initiated.
9.7 Can I Combine Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT) with Personal Leave?
Yes, you can combine EVT with personal leave. However, time away from post (other than transit time) is charged to annual leave, sick leave, compensatory time, or leave without pay, as appropriate.
9.8 What Happens if My Family Member Dies While I am on Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT)?
If your family member dies after you commence eldercare EVT but before you return to post, the eldercare EVT status remains unchanged. If the death occurs before you commence eldercare travel, the request must be revised to death EVT.
9.9 How Do I Request Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT) to Care for a New Child?
To request New Child EVT, notify your post HR and request authorization prior to commencing travel. You may need to provide documentation verifying the birth parent’s expected delivery date or documentation related to the adoption, fostering, or surrogacy.
9.10 What Resources Are Available if I Have More Questions About Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT)?
If you have additional questions or need further assistance, contact your post HR department, the Office of Employee Relations (GTM/ER), or consult the Foreign Affairs Manual (3 FAM 3740).
10. Contact SIXT.VN for Enhanced Travel Support
While navigating Emergency Visitation Travel (EVT) is essential for Foreign Service employees, SIXT.VN is here to enhance your travel experience to and from Vietnam. From seamless airport transfers to comfortable hotel accommodations and curated tour experiences, we ensure your journey is stress-free and memorable. Contact us today to discover how we can support your travel needs.
Address: 260 Cau Giay, Hanoi, Vietnam
Hotline/Whatsapp: +84 986 244 358
Website: SIXT.VN
Let SIXT.VN be your trusted partner for all your travel needs in Vietnam.