Exchange and Commissary in the UK for Military Retirees

A military retiree ordinarily resident in the United Kingdom may shop at U.S. installations for non-rationed items, after prepaying a fixed-rate tax to British customs. A retiree visiting from the United States may not.

Also called: exchange, commissary, AAFES, BX, USAFE Form 174a, HM Customs, military retiree, RAF Lakenheath, RAF Mildenhall.

For: Veteran or service member, spouse, child.

Where it applies

Written for the jurisdictions listed here.

United KingdomCountry

The Exchange's overseas page says privileges abroad are not automatic: overseas commanders decide, under the agreements between the United States and the host country, who may shop and who may buy duty-free goods. For the United Kingdom, retired U.S. military members and dependents qualify only if they are ordinarily resident in the UK. A retiree visiting from the United States, or on leave from another country, is not authorized. The conditions for a resident retiree: rationed items may not be bought, all purchases are subject to prepayment of a fixed-rate tax to British customs, and access requires USAFE Form 174a. The Exchange cites a 1983 memorandum of understanding between Third Air Force and HM Customs and Excise, and Third Air Force Regulation 34-1. A retiree working for U.S. forces as a civilian, or a dependent of someone stationed in the UK, has status through that job or sponsor instead. Ask the installation pass and ID office before relying on access.

Thresholds

Thresholds for Exchange and Commissary in the UK for Military Retirees
Gate	Rule
Military retirees ordinarily resident in the UK	Only retirees and dependents ordinarily resident in the United Kingdom are authorized; visitors are not.
Prepaid British tax and non-rationed items only	Purchases are limited to non-rationed items and are subject to prepayment of a fixed-rate tax to British customs, with USAFE Form 174a for access.

Sources

Exchange, overseas shopping privileges (Europe)Official

Updated

Last updated 2026-10-01.

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Disclaimer

VetTOC is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or the Department of Defense. Information is for reference only and is not an eligibility determination. Verify with VA, the relevant state or territory, or an accredited VSO.