On January 27, 2025, the President signed Executive Order 14184, directing the Department of Defense to address the impacts of the COVID-19 vaccination mandate. In response, the Department of the Air Force has established a clear and supportive pathway for former Airmen and Guardians affected by this policy.

This website is your dedicated resource for that process. Whether you are exploring a return to service or seeking a correction of your military records, the commitment is to provide transparent guidance and comprehensive resources every step of the way.

 

Am I Eligible?

  • Are You Eligible to Return?

    We welcome all former Airmen and Guardians who were separated in connection with the COVID-19 vaccine mandate to explore their options for returning to service. This section is designed to help you determine if you are eligible to return to service under this Executive Order.

  • Initial Eligibility Checklist

    Click here to download PDF

  • Prior Service

    Were you a member of the U.S. Air Force or U.S. Space Force?

  • Reason for Separation

    Were you a member of the U.S. Air Force or U.S. Space Force?

  • Nature of Separation

    Were you involuntarily discharged for refusal to receive the COVID-19 vaccine or did you “voluntarily” leave the service or allow your service to lapse rather than be vaccinated under the vaccine mandate?

  • If You Answered "Yes"

    If you answered "yes", we strongly encourage you to take the next step and fill out the contact form above. Air Force Recruiting Service (AFRS) will then contact you to discuss your options, the process, required documentation, and answer any of your questions.


 

 

Resources & Downloads


 

The Re-accession Process (Expand Below for Details)

The Reinstatement Process (Expand Below for Details)

 

Covid Reinstatement Contact Form

This contact form is the first step for former Airmen and Guardians who were separated due to the COVID-19 vaccine mandate and are interested in exploring opportunities to return to the Department of the Air Force. We value your past service and are committed to guiding you through the process.

To help us direct your inquiry and provide the most accurate information, please include the following details in your message:

1. Nature of Your Separation: Please specify whether your separation was:

- Involuntary discharge or transfer to the IRR
- Voluntary rather than receive the COVID-19 vaccine

2. Desired Return to Service Pathway: Please indicate your pathway of interest:

Reinstatement: This path requires you to apply to the Air Force Board for Correction of Military Records (AFBCMR) before you return to service. The board will then review your case and decide on any requested relief, such as correcting your military records, restoring your rank, and providing back pay or other compensation.

Re-accession: This option allows you to return to service without a prior AFBCMR determination. This means that you will not receive any restored service credit, back pay, promotion, record correction, etc. While you can rejoin more quickly, you still retain the right to submit an AFBCMR application for relief after you have returned to service.

3. Desired Service Component: If you have a preference, please let us know which component you wish to serve in.

- Active-Duty
- Air Force Reserve
- Air National Guard
- Space Force (for prior Guardians)

Once you submit the form, a representative will contact you to discuss the next steps. We look forward to the possibility of welcoming you back.
You can enter up to 1000 characters


 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  • Eligibility
  • The Application Process
  • Pay and Incentives
  • After Approval

CONTACT US

DAF COVID Task Force - SAF.COVID.TaskForce@us.af.mil

AFBCMR COVID Cell - SAF.MRBC.Covid@us.af.mil

Air Force Recruiting Service - afrs.hqrsopa.accessionsstandards@us.af.mil


 

 
USAF & USSF