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Federal & SOFA Employees

Federal employees and Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) personnel working overseas face unique challenges when disability or medical limitations affect their ability to continue in service. We provide high-level guidance on Federal Disability Retirement, FECA, and related issues for employees stationed in Japan and abroad, with more in-depth resources coming soon.

Federal Disability Retirement

Federal Disability Retirement, administered through the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), provides long-term income protection for eligible federal employees who can no longer perform the essential duties of their position due to a medical condition.
  • At a high level, qualifying involves:
  • A medical condition expected to last at least one year
  • Inability to perform essential job duties
  • Evidence that reasonable accommodation was not possible
  • Employment under FERS
  • Timely filing after separation (generally within one year)
For overseas employees, coordinating medical documentation, supervisor statements, and OPM communication can be significantly more complex. We help you understand the process and requirements so you can prepare a stronger submission.
VA Disability in Japan

Controllers / 2152s

Air Traffic Control Specialists (2152s) face strict medical, duty, and performance standards that can quickly lead to medical disqualification when certain conditions arise.
  • Common issues include:
  • Cardiovascular restrictions
  • Psychological conditions
  • Sleep disorders
  • Medication limitations
  • Loss of medical certification
When a 2152 employee loses medical clearance, decisions about reassignment, reasonable accommodation, and disability retirement must happen quickly and accurately. We provide guidance on these next steps and help structure a clear path forward.

SOFA Employee Challenges

SOFA employees stationed overseas encounter unique barriers when dealing with federal disability, medical leave, or employment-status issues,
  • including:
  • Limited access to stateside medical evaluations
  • Difficulty obtaining required medical documentation
  • Confusion regarding eligibility for federal programs
  • Delays in communication with OPM or SSA
  • Uncertainty about how overseas status impacts rights and benefits
We help SOFA personnel understand their options, navigate complex procedures, and prepare for upcoming changes in employment or medical status.

More Detailed Guides Coming Soon

We are developing expanded resources for:

VA Disability Japan

When you file a VA disability claim, your Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam—also called a VA claim exam—is often the single most important piece of medical evidence in your file.

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Survivor and pension Japan

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Survivor and pension Philippines

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Frequently Asked
Questions

Can I file a VA disability claim while living in Japan?
Yes. VA disability is a federal benefit available to eligible veterans worldwide. You can file, attend exams, and receive payments from Japan.
The VA uses contract examiners (VES, QTC, LHI) to conduct exams in Japan. Exams may be in-person, via telehealth, or records-based depending on your claim.
No. The entire process — filing, exams, appeals — can be handled from Japan.
We help you get records translated and presented clearly for VA raters. Japanese records can absolutely support your claim when handled correctly.
VA disability payments are deposited directly to your bank account. You can use a U.S. bank or, in many cases, a Japanese bank.
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Testimonials

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client’s feedback

“I spent 14 years at 50% after retirement. James Smith identified issues in my claim and got to work. I had a step-by-step strategy, organized the evidence, coordinated supporting statements, and prepared me for the VA exams. My claim was fully developed and approved at 100% P&T—the process was efficient and transparent. Truly grateful!”

Jim Friedhoff

Okinawa, Japan

“As a surviving spouse living overseas, I found the DIC process daunting. James Smith conducted a review, established a precise checklist, assembled a complete, fully developed claim, and submitted it. Approval arrived within a week. I had complete confidence in Pacific Valor Law’s counsel throughout.”

Jim Wentling

virginia

I would like to thank the whole team that was responsible for completing a successful claim on my behalf. My family and I are forever grateful for your service on my claim. I pray that other veterans who need wise counsel and advocacy will contact you. May God bless each and everyone of you.

Thomas Sedgwick

Okinawa, Japan

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Pacific Valor Law

Based in Okinawa, Japan — Serving U.S. veterans and military families worldwide

VA-accredited attorney | Licensed in New Jersey

Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. This website is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

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