VA Claims Abroad — Veterans Worldwide.

Worldwide eligibility and representation — FAQ

Common questions from U.S. veterans living outside the United States.

Can I file or appeal a VA disability claim while living outside the United States?

Yes. VA disability compensation eligibility is based on service, not residence. U.S. veterans living abroad can file initial claims, supplemental claims, higher-level reviews, and Board appeals from any country. Claims are generally processed by a stateside Regional Office, except for the Philippines, which is handled by the Manila VA Regional Office.

Can a VA-accredited claims agent represent me if I live in another country?

Yes. VA accreditation under 38 C.F.R. § 14.629 is federal and carries no geographic limit. Representation is established by a signed VA Form 21-22a, which can be executed electronically from anywhere in the world.

How does a C&P exam work if I live overseas?

The VA arranges overseas examinations through contract examiners, the Manila VA Outpatient Clinic, or in some cases a Department of State panel physician. You are not required to travel back to the United States for an examination.

Does the VA pay for medical care in a foreign country?

The Foreign Medical Program (FMP) reimburses care for conditions the VA has already service-connected in most countries. You typically pay the provider directly and submit for reimbursement. FMP is separate from a disability claim and does not by itself establish service connection.

Can VA compensation be deposited into a foreign bank account?

In most countries, yes — through the U.S. Treasury's International Direct Deposit (IDD) program. Where IDD is unavailable, payment can be routed to a U.S. bank account you maintain.

How do time zones and language work with a remote representative?

All work is remote by video, phone, email, and secure document upload, scheduled around your local time. VA correspondence and filings are submitted in English; foreign-language medical records generally need an English translation to be considered.

What does overseas representation cost, and are results guaranteed?

Initial claims are handled at no charge. For decision reviews, fees are contingent on awarded past-due benefits, capped at 20% under VA rules, and disclosed in a written fee agreement before any work begins. No outcome is guaranteed or implied — VA decides every claim on the evidence and the law.

Decision review options for overseas veterans

VA decision review is federal and identical everywhere. If you already have a rating decision, one of these three lanes applies. Which one fits depends on the evidence in your file — not on where you live.

No outcome is promised or implied. Nothing here is legal advice, and representation begins only after a signed fee agreement and VA Form 21-22a.