USAKA/RTS Entry Authorizations (Eas) are processed on the Internet-based on-line system called “READ” (RTS Entry Authorization Database). READ provides you an automated, user-friendly method of requesting and receiving permission to travel to the island. Requests for entry into Kwajalein must be submitted at least seven (7) U.S. working days prior to departing the U.S. for travel. Submission later than 7 days may not be approved and could delay travel. Four copies of the approved EA must be hand carried with one copy provided to the airlines before boarding the aircraft in Honolulu. Additional EA copies will be used at site in the entry/exit process.

Travelers to Kwajalein must have a site POC (Site Sponsor) established with a full understanding of the nature of the mission and rationale for the visit prior to submission of the READ request. A Site Sponsor (SS) will be selected from a pull-down list while completing the READ form. The pull-down list will also contain the SS’s Kwajalein phone number (805.355.XXXX) in the event the traveler has an EA inquiry. After the SS has approved the EA, the READ system forwards the EA for the final government approval by the Approval Authority (AA) in Huntsville Alabama.

Again, travelers should contact the SS to work out entry issues.

Visitors to the island must create an account on the new system. The procedures are as simple as creating a free Email account such as Hotmail or Yahoo mail. Simply click on the link below or launch a browser (Internet Explorer or Netscape Navigator versions 4.0 or higher) and enter the URL https://www.smdc.army.mil/read/default.asp instructions on the screen are self-explanatory, and are repeated below for convenience. 

New security features for those users with Internet Explorer 7.0:  You maybe prompted to choose a security certificate or receive a message regarding a problem with the website's security certificate.  Just click on through these messages  or choose continue on to the website and you will eventually receive the READ login page.  In order to avoid the security prompts in the future, add the READ link to the trusted sites under Tools, Internet Options and the Security tab in your Internet Explorer.

• Click on “Sign up now" to Access READ”
• Enter data into the requested fields (mandatory fields are denoted by a “*”)
• Click “Submit” and an Email will be sent to the Email account you stated in the “Email Address” field of the user registration form (this will be your User Name on the READ system)
• Open the Email  and Click on the link. This will take you back to READ for your initial login
• Login to READ for the first time using your full Email address as your user name and “password” (case sensitive) as your password
  • You will be presented with a screen to change your password from “password” to your own personal password you select
• Change your password (this must be changed every 6 months)
• Use the system to request visits

After the visitor submits his/her request and the visit is approved, the visitor will receive an Email message notifying him/her to log in to READ and print the approved Entry Authorization form.  Visitors no longer have to wait for a fax copy of the Entry Authorization form.  They can request visits and print their Entry Authorization form from any computer connected to the Internet (in a hotel, the office, or at home). The program allows you to request multiple visits, modify existing visits, and cancel visit requests.  Visit requests will be processed in a few days. If you have any problems or questions call contact Darcie Grindrod, darcie.grindrod@smdc.army.mil

*****IMPORTANT*****
Continental Airlines, and AMC require an approved entry authorization before allowing passengers to board an aircraft bound for Kwajalein. Passengers without an approval will be declined boarding the aircraft.
Non-Military travelers MUST have a passport to re-enter the U.S. on Continental airlines.
Birth certificates with photo identification are NO longer accepted by Continental for travelers re-entering the U.S. A United States military member in possession of a military ID card and a copy of military orders may travel on that documentation.
 THIS IS MANDATORY FOR U.S. RE-ENTRY
 *New PASSPORT requirements for travel by land or sea begin January 2008 as directed by Homeland Security.

1. DoD civilians, DoD contractors, or eligible family members of US military and DoD civilian personnel must present a valid passport. No exceptions, even if entering the US through a US military base. (For both Continental and Military flights)

2. Active-duty members of the US Armed Forces, regardless of nationality, are exempt from this requirement.
Active-duty military members must present a military ID card and orders. (No changes)

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Security Clearances

If the visit will involve discussion or disclosure of classified information or material, a Visit Request/Authorization must be furnished verifying the security clearance of the individual and the purpose of the visit. The verification will bear the appropriate signature of the visitor's security manager verifying the individual personnel security clearance of the visitor(s). In addition, verification from government contractors must have a government sponsor's certification of need to know. The verification of clearance can be valid for a period of one year. Security clearances should be addressed to: Commander, USAKA/RTS, ATTN: SMDC-AC-K-CS, PO Box 26, APO AP 96555-2526.  Clearances should be faxed to DSN: 254-2122, Commercial: (805) 355-2122, Attention: Security Clearance

Arrival at USAKA/RTS

Commonly Asked Questions

Q. What documentation must I have to return to the U.S.

New PASSPORT requirements for travel by land or sea begin January 2008 as directed by Homeland Security.

1. DoD civilians, DoD contractors, or eligible family members of US military and DoD civilian personnel must present a valid passport. No exceptions, even if entering the US through a US military base. (For both Continental and Military flights)

2. Active-duty members of the US Armed Forces, regardless of nationality, are exempt from this requirement.
Active-duty military members must present a military ID card and orders. (No changes)

Q. Do I need a passport to travel to Kwajalein?

A. Currently, traveling to Kwajalein, commercial airlines serving USAKA/RTS require a passport or proof of citizenship, such as certified birth certificate, and valid Entry Authorization to board the aircraft. Military passenger services, AMC, require official orders, valid Entry Authorization and a photo ID to board the aircraft.
 

Q. I will be arriving two days later than my approved entry authorization reflects. Must I submit a new request?

A. No. As long as your arrival date comes within 7 days from the original date, a new request is not required; however,  your POC (site sponsor) should be notified for billeting purposes. If you will be arriving before the approved arrival date, a new request must be submitted.  If you plan to stay longer than your departure date, a new request must also be submitted. Again, a phone call will suffice.

Q. I am a contractor and I would like to fly AMC to Kwajalein. What do I need to do to get booked on AMC?

A. You must contact your government sponsor. It is their responsibility to get you booked on an AMC flight and provide invitational orders.

Q. How can my spouse reach me while on TDY to USAKA/RTS?

A. The commercial number for the Kwaj Lodge is (805) 355-3477 or DSN 254-3477.

Q. I have an approved entry authorization; however, I was denied access to a classified meeting. Why?

A. Many visitors are unaware that an entry authorization approval and a visit request/ authorization are two different documents. If your visit will involve discussion or disclosure of classified information or material, see the procedure for processing clearances as described in "Security Clearances". An approved entry authorization is strictly for permission of island entry.

Q. What kind of transportation is available on Kwajalein?

A. Bicycles are the most common means of transportation. Bicycles can be rented for approximately $5.00 per day. In order for government employees to receive reimbursement for rental of a bicycle, the statement "Bicycle Rental Authorized" must be in Block 16 of their travel order form DD 1610. Free Shuttle service is provide at the airport to arriving passengers to transport luggage to quarters.

Q. Who arranges accommodations at the Kwaj Lodge for me?

A. The on-island POC (site sponsor) makes reservations for you.

Q. When I travel to other army bases in countries overseas, I am required to obtain in-country/theater clearance. Is this applicable to Kwajalein?

A. No, in-country/theater clearance is not required.

Q. How do I, as a contractor, figure my grade equivalency and what kind of accommodations can I expect?

A. USAKA applies the following guidelines:

DV: Designated Distinguished Visitor (DV) quarters
PB: Private bath, single occupancy.
SB: Shared bath; double occupancy
MCL: Common latrine; multiple occupancy.

Q. What is the per diem rate for Kwajalein?

A. Total per diem for Kwajalein is $129; lodging is $87 and M&IE is $42. The round trip air fare from Huntsville, AL is approximately $2350.

Q. What is the time difference?

A. USAKA/RTS is on the other side of the international date line; therefore, they are one day ahead of CONUS. USAKA/RTS is 18 hours ahead of Central Standard Time (CST). For example, 9:00 am on November 5th CST is 3:00 am on November 6th. USAKA/RTS does not change to Daylight Savings Time; therefore, when CONUS is on Daylight Savings Time, the time difference is 17 hours from Central Daylight Time (CDT). The easiest way to figure the time is to subtract 6 hours from CST and it’s the next day. CDT – subtract 7 hours and it’s the next day.

Q. What is the normal work schedule in Kwajalein?

A. The employees at USAKA/RTS work a Tuesday through Saturday work schedule to coincide with the CONUS Monday through Friday work schedule. 0730 – 1630 is the most common time schedule with a one hour lunch time between 1130 – 1230 or 1200 –1300.