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1.
Introduction
This document is designed to help you to complete your preparations for travel to Papua New Guinea.
The procedures given for obtaining Entry Permits are mandatory and are the only method for obtaining Entry Permits for PNG.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Within this document and in correspondence concerning travel the term Visa and the term Entry Permit mean exactly the same thing.
The procedures involving travel arrangements and shipment of goods are well-founded suggestions. You may depart from them if you feel you have come up with something better. If you do (come up with something really better), (1) check with us since we have tried other ways also, and (2) please carefully document your procedure so that, if it works out well, others can benefit from your discovery.
PLEASE NOTE: In all cases where you are required to communicate with the PNG Branch, you are instructed to address your communications to the Assistant Director of Support Services (from here on, referred to as ADSS) adss@pioneerbible.org.pg There are actually several departments and individuals involved in the processing required to facilitate your travel. Some processes are completed by the Administrator of Logistics, some by the ADSS, and others require the PNG Branch Director’s action (from here on referred to as the Director). However, we have seen the need for a single individual to be held responsible for the process. We have chosen the ADSS because nearly all of the processing is done by the ADSS or staff directly responsible to the ADSS. The responses you receive may come from another person, but you should still address all material to the ADSS. If you are corresponding by email to another individual concerning your travel process, CC a copy also to the ADSS.
2.
Manual Outline
The first thing you should do is read the entire document to get an overview of what is required and begin to determine what parts of it apply to you. (We tried to cover every category of traveler.) Go back and read it again, making notes for yourself where appropriate.
Section 6. provides information about obtaining an Approved Position Number. Every head-of-family must have an Approved Position Number, as must every unmarried worker. (This does not apply, of course, to tourists and short-term visitors doing no work at all.)
Section 7. deals with obtaining your Entry Permit to PNG. All persons wishing to come to PNG for any reason must comply with this part.
Section 9. outlines the most efficient and economical methods for packing and shipping your goods.
Section 10. gives some suggestions for making travel arrangements, medical information, and some information about your first days in PNG.
Section 11. provides procedures for transfer of funds to PNG.
Section 14. provides addresses and telephone and fax numbers.
3.
General Guidelines
1. Make TWO copies of everything - personal records (marriage license, birth certificate, driver’s license, resume, etc.), forms filled out, applications, letters and emails sent and received, passports, airline tickets - everything! Keep- ing in mind that copies can be lost, not only by you, but by others. Use one set of copies as your working documents to be carried with you. The other set should be left with your Forwarding Agent so that if the working set is lost, you can have the backup set sent to you by express mail. Remember to instruct your Forwarding Agent to make copies of the backup set before sending them to you, otherwise, if the backup set is lost, you’ll be left with no copies at all.
The US Embassy suggests that you make copies of your passport pages 2 and 3, as it will facilitate the replacement of a lost passport. Also make a copy of the passport page that has your PNG Entry Permit. Remember to keep the copies separate from the originals to reduce the chance of losing both originals and copies.
NOTE: When children of US citizens are born in PNG we must provide certified copies of their marriage license for the purpose of obtaining a “Report of Birth Abroad.” This is the only method of proving US citizenship for children born abroad (outside of naturalization proceedings).
2. Carefully document your progress. You should keep some sort of diary of your preparations. A loose leaf notebook would be good for this because you can insert copies of various items and be able to find them. (You may want to use this manual as the basis for this diary. It will have your notes in the margins and you can keep everything organized.)
3. If something goes seriously wrong or if you feel you need advice, immediately contact the ADSS and ask for help.
4. Be sure to use the reporting statements (Section 17.). You should understand that a reporting statement is often the trigger that starts a process in PNG that is necessary to allow you to travel. If you fail to send a reporting statement at the appropriate time, you may find your travel significantly delayed because a part of the process has not been completed in PNG. NOTE: It is not actually necessary to mail the statement. You can FAX the or send an email stating clearly that you are sending an email instead of mailing the statement . On your email select whatever option you have to get a return receipt.
5. When sending information to or communicating with the ADSS, use DHL or FAX the items. Use DHL only - other express mail service companies may claim to be able to deliver to Madang, but your items could take weeks to get here. If you need to get information through faster, use the FAX machine, but we suggest if it’s really important, you should ask for a confirmation FAX to be sent back to you immediately. If you do not specifically request a confirmation FAX, you will probably not get one. If you know how to properly scan documents, and the time is short, you may use email. Please make sure the attachments are scanned at 300dpi, black and white (or grey scale if necessary for clarity), and saved as a TIF file with LZW compression. This will make emails smaller and will be more likely to get through to us with no problems. Remember that some items (e.g. certified copies) must be sent by DHL because they must be 'originals'.
6. IF YOU ARE REQUESTING A RESIDENT Entry Permit (see Section 7.2.), each adult member of the family will be required to have an HIV test and a chest X-Ray for tuberculosis. The embassy will request the original lab test evaluation statement, and the test date must be close to the time the Entry Permit application is submitted. Do not send the X-Ray. It must be hand carried by you so that you have it with you when you arrive in PNG. If a Customs officer asks you for your X-Ray at the Port Moresby airport, give it to him. Otherwise, take it with you to Madang and give it to the ADSS. It will be kept in our office until it is needed.
4.
Progress Reporting
Before beginning any of the preparation contained in this document you must detach and sign statement 1 from Section 17. and send it to the ADSS.
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If you are applying for a resident Entry Permit, also detach, sign, and send to the ADSS statement 2 from Section 17. Request the ADSS to approve the tentative date you have set for arrival in PNG.
After completing each additional step in the process, you must notify the ADSS of your progress by detaching the appropriate reporting statement in Section 17. and sending it.
5.
Photographs
You will need the following photographs to accompany your various applications:
1. US Passport: 2 per applicant; check the passport application for current size requirements.
2. PNG Entry Permit: 2 per applicant; check the Entry Permit application for current size requirements.
3. PNG Approved Position Number: 8 per applicant; See Section 6.2. for details.
You can usually save both time and money by getting all these photographs at one time. It is advisable to get extra copies, in case any of your application materials get lost and must be resubmitted.
6.
Obtaining an Approved Position Number
Applicants for both resident and short term Entry Permits must first obtain an Approved Position Number from the PNG Labor Department. This applies to all workers. According to our Three Year Plan, which is submitted to the Labor Department, we have a list of approved positions that we are allowed to recruit against. By submitting documentation for all husbands and single workers, we demonstrate that they are qualified to fill the Labor Department Approved Position Number they are assigned. This position number also appears on their Entry Permit application forms.
Support workers, literacy workers, translators and short term workers must send the ADSS the following information, which is needed to obtain an Approved Position Number. By this time, the applicant should have received an introductory letter from the ADSS along with a Entry Permit Information Sheet and Page 2 of Form 1-A. Upon receipt of this information, the applicant can also write or call the PNG Embassy in Washington DC (US members) or Australian High Commission in Ottawa (Canadian members) to request an Entry Permit application. (As of the date of this manual, the Entry Permit application could be downloaded from www.pngembassy.org from the FORMS section as Application for Entry Permit) These two forms must be filled out and sent to PNG along with the following:
6.1.
Resume
Send a DETAILED current resume. Your normal resume for employment purposes may be condensed because the current thinking is that it should be no more than two pages or so. For our purposes, we need plenty of detail. Pay particular attention to the following two areas.
6.1.1.
Educational information
List all schools attended, dates attended, major area of study, any degrees or certificates. Provide originals and/or certified copies of transcripts, degrees, and certificates received. Pay particular attention to any qualifications you have which are pertinent to your job description. Original documents can be hand-carried as long as the copies we receive are very good and will photocopy well. Be sure to include any training received at SIL.
6.1.2.
Work experience
List and provide proof of work experience that is relevant to the position you are going to fill. Include employer and location, the nature of business, dates, occupation, and duties. Supporting documentation is required (such as letters of reference). Also include other relevant qualifications such as membership in professional bodies.
6.2.
Passport-type photos
Send eight photos for the individual applying for an Approved Position Number. The facial image should be about 7/8" from chin to top of head.
7.
Obtaining an Entry Permit for Papua New Guinea
7.1.
Types of Entry Permits
In general, there are three types of Entry Permits for PNG. These are:
7.1.1.
Resident Entry Permit
This Entry Permit is required for all members or short-term assistants staying longer than 90 days. When the Approved Position Number Letter has been received, application can be made for this.
7.1.2.
Short Term Entry Permit
This is appropriate for very short-term workers, work-party members, consultants coming to hold workshops, etc. Application can be made for this only after documentation has been submitted and the applicant has been approved by the Labor Department (i.e. obtained an Approved Position Number).
7.1.3.
Visitor/Tourist Entry Permit
This is normally issued for 30 to 60 days. No employment or voluntary work is permissible with this Entry Permit. This Entry Permit would be appropriate for friends/relatives of PBT/PNG members, PBT Board Members, PBT Executive Officers, and others who desire to visit PBT/PNG for a period of less than 60 days and do not desire to work in any PBT work projects (manual labor) or conduct any commercial business while in PNG. Sometimes a 30 day extension (90 days total) can be applied for once the visitor is in PNG.
After determining which type of Entry Permit to apply for, carefully read the steps involved and follow them in the proper sequence.
7.2.
Obtaining a Resident Entry Permit
7.2.1.
Obtain your US passport
If you already have one, check the expiration date. The length of your Entry Permit will not exceed the expiration date of your passport, so renew the latter if necessary. US government regulations require that each member of the family have his own passport. For information on costs of passports visit this website. http://travel.state.gov
As soon as you have your passports send the form in the packet from the ADSS titled "Entry Permit Information Sheet".
7.2.2.
When you are notified that your Approved Position Number has been approved
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You must have these three items when submitting your Entry Permit application. Also ask the ADSS that you be sent any additions or changes to this manual. (Be sure to mention the version number of your travel manual).
7.2.3.
As a result of your letter, the ADSS will:
7.2.4.
After receiving the Entry Permit Application from the PNG Embassy:
(a) Complete the Entry Permit application and related forms. (See Section 16. for instructions for completing the Entry Permit application.) Mail the completed Entry Permit application and all required supporting documents (including the sponsoring letter from the ADSS) to the Embassy, using registered mail, return receipt requested or DHL. Supporting documents which they will request will include specific health exams and a police record check.
NOTE: The police record check can be obtained from your local police department or County Sheriff’s office. What is needed is a letter on the official police letterhead, signed by a police officer, stating that there are no outstanding warrants for the individual and that the individual has no record of convictions. A police record check is needed for EACH adult applying for a Entry Permit.
Be sure to enclose the correct Entry Permit application fees. Entry Permit fees must be paid by cashier's check or money order. Personal or business checks are not accepted.
(b) Include a cover letter informing the Embassy of your preference for handling your passport once your Entry Permit is approved Obtain an Express Mail envelope from your local post office. Address it to yourself, affix the correct postage, and enclose it with your Entry Permit application materials or do a similar thing with DHL. The idea is to provide a no cost, trackable way for the embassy to return your passport.
©) Send a copy of the Entry Permit application to the ADSS so that information provided for your Entry Permit extension can be consistent with information you have provided.
(d) Wait at lease four or five days before checking with the PNG Embassy and then check every other day until they confirm that they have received the TELEX Entry Permit approval letter from the Immigration Department in Port Moresby. You must do this, or your travel may be delayed because ‘your wheel is not squeaking.’ However, YOU MUST BE POLITE! This might be your first encounter with cultural differences, so get it right - be polite.
NOTE: It is important that you retain copies of all the above documents so that you can be consistent in all official correspondence, and because some things get “lost.”
7.2.5.
Wait while the following takes place:
(a) PNG Immigration Department in Port Moresby sends approval to the PNG Embassy in the USA.
(b) The Embassy issues an Entry Permit stamp in your passport and sends it to you per your instructions.
NOTE: Notify the ADSS if there seems to be a delay in the Embassy’s receiving telex approval from the Immigration Department (i.e., if you have not received your Entry Permit within three weeks from when you mailed your Entry Permit application materials to the Embassy).
7.2.6.
Inform the ADSS and the ISC of Entry Permit being granted
Inform the ADSS when your Entry Permit has been granted and call the ISC with the same information.
CAUTION: DO NOT purchase your airplane tickets until your Entry Permit has been granted unless they are fully redeemable. This could be an expensive mistake if the tickets do not allow changes of bookings.
7.3.
Obtaining a Short Term Entry Permit
Applications for short term Entry Permits follow the same procedures as for resident Entry Permits. Short term Entry Permits are handled on an individual basis. Approved Position Number related information will also be determined on an individual basis. A sponsoring letter must be prepared by the ADSS to the authorities in Port Moresby and to the PNG Embassy in the USA.
7.4.
Obtaining a Visitor/Tourist Entry Permit
7.4.1.
Obtain your US passport
If you already have one, check the expiration date. The length of your Entry Permit will not exceed the expiration date of your passport, so renew the latter if necessary. U.S. government regulations require each member of the family to have a passport.
7.4.2.
Write via registered air mail or fax to the ADSS
To inform the ADSS of your plans and request any specific information and instructions. The Embassy now issues 30 and 60 day Tourist Entry Permits without a sponsorship letter from us. However, if you are coming to do any kind of work (such as a building project), you will need a sponsoring letter. If the latter is the case, you must request a sponsoring letter at this stage.
Sometimes a 30 day extension can be obtained upon arrival in PNG.
Though you may be told that you may obtain your tourist Entry Permit upon arrival in PNG, we recommend this not be done. It is always best to have your Entry Permit in advance as this policy changes from time to time.
7.4.3.
Write to the ISC
Informing them of your plans and requesting any specific information and instructions.
7.4.4.
Write to the PNG Embassy
Requesting Entry Permit application forms and related documents. (See sample letter 4 in Section 17.)
7.4.5.
After receiving the Entry Permit application:
(a) Complete the Entry Permit application and related forms. Return them, along with the sponsoring letter if it has been provided, to the Embassy, using registered mail, return receipt requested or DHL. Attach a cover letter to the Entry Permit application advising the Embassy how to return your passport after the Entry Permit has been stamped in it. (See 7.2.4. (b)).
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Be sure to enclose the correct Entry Permit application fees. Entry Permit fees must be paid by cashier's check or money order. Personal or business checks are not accepted.
(b) Send a copy of the Entry Permit application to the ADSS.
NOTE: It is important that you retain copies of all the above documents so that you can be consistent in all official correspondence, and because some things can get “lost.”
7.4.6.
Wait for Entry Permit
NOTE: Notify the ADSS if there seems to be a delay in the Embassy’s receiving telex approval from the Immigration Department (i.e., if you have not received your Entry Permit within three weeks from when you mailed your Entry Permit application materials to the Embassy). The telex approval only applies to those who require a sponsoring letter.
NOTE: If you do not receive your Entry Permit back within three weeks from when you mailed your application, ring the PNG Embassy/Australian High Commission for a follow up.
7.4.7.
Inform the ADSS and the ISC of Entry Permit being granted
Inform the ADSS when your Entry Permit has been granted and call the ISC with the same information.
7.5.
If you have a valid reentry Entry Permit.
If you are returning to PNG with a valid reentry Entry Permit, you obviously do not have to apply for a Entry Permit while on furlough. Just make sure the reentry date allows you sufficient time to return.
PNG government regulations do not require medical exams if your stay in the U.S. is less than a year. If your stay is longer they can require them.
8.
Recommendations for Specific Items.
We make recommendations for three general categories of equipment. If you have questions about these items, please ASK before PURCHASING or SHIPPING.
8.1.
General Electrical Items and Small Appliances.
You should carefully consider whether to bring small appliances with you. You can buy anything you want here (blenders, hair curlers, vacuum cleaners, toasters, etc, etc.). The ONLY electrical supply here is 240 Volts 50 Hertz. This means that anything you buy in the USA probably won't work here (unless it specifically allows that voltage range). You MIGHT get the item to work if you use a transformer, but they are getting very hard to find and expensive. Besides they use a lot more electricity.
8.2.
Television Sets and VCRs.
Television sets sold in North America use the NTSC signal format while everything in PNG uses the PAL format. You need to know that these are NOT compatible. Sources of TV signals in urban areas are common now, so if you live in town, you’ll at least have the local broadcast station (such as it is) available and some locations also have cable TV available. There are several places in town where you can rent video tapes and video disks also. If, however, you bring a TV from North America (unless it’s a MULTISYSTEM unit), you’ll have two problems. First, it will probably be 110 volts only for power and second, it will not display any signals available here. It will still function as a display for tapes you might get from North America. You won’t, however, be able to play NTSC tapes on the average PNG video player (again, unless it’s a MULTISYSTEM). Most people who live in town and need the TV as entertainment have a multisystem TV and video player so that they can have both NTSC (for tapes from home and viewing tapes made with NTSC cameras) and for viewing local TV and playing rented video tapes.
8.3.
Computers and Printers.
If you already own a laptop computer and want to bring it with you, you may do so, but you must realize that there are no local facilities for repair (except for TOSIHBA). If you do not already have a laptop, AND you will be living in town, we do not recommend that you purchase one for use in PNG. This is primarily because of the difficulty of getting them repaired. Instead we recommend that you wait until you get to PNG and purchase a desktop unit through our resources. If you are going to be living in the bush, we strongly recommend that you consult with us concerning the appropriate equipment to purchase. In most instances this will be some model of a Toshiba laptop. Some bush teams prefer to have both a laptop and a desktop machine. As mentioned above, you should purchase your desktop here.
If you wish to use a desktop computer in PNG, we strongly recommend that you purchase it here. We have wholesale suppliers for every item you might need. The cost will be about what you would pay in the USA, but the parts will be standard off-the-shelf items which we can easily replace. Everything will also run on the local power (240V, 50Hz).
If you wish to purchase a desktop or laptop computer in the USA and bring it with you, we STRONGLY URGE YOU to ask us first. We want to make sure that you are not purchasing something that cannot be easily repaired in PNG. SPECIFICALLY avoid Compaq and IBM computers. Many computers manufactured today have special proprietary parts in them that are NOT available here and must be purchased directly from distributors that make LOTS of money selling replacement parts that can only be obtained from them. The desktop computers that we assemble here are made from stock OEM items that we can easily obtain at competitive prices.
We know that when one walks into CompUSA or Best Buys needing a computer it’s like going to the supermarket when one is hungry. Please resist the urge. You might find the “best buy” was really a lot more expensive than you imagined when you need to get it fixed in PNG.
9.
Shipment of Goods
Previously, missionaries sent large quantities of goods to PNG because many items were simply unavailable in this country. However, the situation is quite different now. One can find almost anything one needs in PNG, though the quality varies: clothes, household goods, appliances, and tools. In the long run it may be cheaper to ship a minimum of cargo to PNG and buy what you need when you get here. On the other hand, if your items are new, or specialized (e.g., books), and good quality, it may be better to ship these than to sell or store them and try to buy in PNG.
Availability of things does change from time to time. Member’s values and needs are different, too. It is not practical to provide a list. It is advisable to correspond with several branch members for their suggestions.
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If you want to know what certain items are available and their cost, just ask. We will go shopping for you and let you know what there is and its cost.
9.1.
Shipment via Ocean Freight
The procedure for shipping goods to PNG via ocean freight involves (1) making arrangements for your goods to be sent to PNG from the West Coast and (2) making arrangements for your goods to be transported to the West Coast.
9.1.1.
Transport U.S. to PNG
PBT members can ship their goods to PNG at a lower than commercial rate with Home of Peace, JAARS Shipping, or Fellowship Crating, which are organizations formed to assist missionaries shipping goods overseas. Write to them explaining that you are a member of PBT and ask for details. Give planned departure date and ask for shipping schedule details:
Home of Peace
4700 Daisy Street Fax 415-531-4207
Oakland CA 94619-2893 Phone
415-531-4200
home@homeofpeace.com
JAARS, Inc. Phone 1-800-890-0628
P. O. Box 248 Fax 704-843-6385
Waxhaw, NC 28173
www.jaars.org
Fellowship Crating & Missionary Service
10131 Flora Vista Street Fax
310-920-7296
Bellflower, CA 90706 Phone 310-860-6957
Please keep the ADSS advised of all your shipping arrangements.
NOTE: Home of Peace can ship your smaller crates more economically if they are banded together to equal one cubic meter or more. Often they are charged the minimum rate on a crate, which is for one cubic meter.
9.1.1.1.
Timing of Shipment
If all goes well, it will take your goods about one to two months but could take up to four months to arrive from the States, once shipped.
If you will be attending the Pacific Orientation Course (POC) soon after arrival in PNG, do not plan for your shipment to arrive until after you finish POC. You will probably not be able to open the crate before that time, and storage in Madang is extremely short.
If you will not be attending POC, plan for your goods to arrive at least a week after your arrival in Madang. If for any reason your goods are scheduled to arrive in Madang before you do, notify the ADSS before the shipment arrives.
9.1.1.2.
Statutory Declaration
You will need to fill out a Statutory Declaration during your first few days in PNG. You will get the form during your initial orientation. If for some reason you are delayed in coming to PNG, but your shipment is already on its way, you will need to contact the ADSS for a form and fill it out as instructed in this manual. We will need it to clear your shipment with Customs. If your goods arrive in PNG ahead of your Statutory Declaration, they may be impounded by customs, and you will be charged for storage.
Follow the example for filling out the Statutory Declaration in Section 18. Item (d) (ii) only refers to large household items such as stove, refrigerator, couch, etc. If none of these are being shipped, list “nil;” if such items are being shipped, list their value. Make 3 copies. Send two copies to the ADSS and retain one copy for your files.
9.1.2.
Transport to the West Coast
When you have inquired concerning overseas shipping schedules, begin making plans to have your goods delivered to the West Coast. This requires careful co-ordination so that your goods arrive at the coast at the proper time.
Missionary Transport
The most economical way for PBT members to transport goods to the West Coast is through Missionary Transport, a part of Wycliffe.
Wycliffe Truck
Wycliffe JAARS Center
Box 248
Phone 1-800-890-0628
Waxhaw, NC 28173 Fax 704-843-6010
jaars_trucking@sil.org
Missionary Transport will ship to Fellowship Crating and Home of Peace, as well as to JAARS Shipping. Home of Peace can arrange overland transport too.
Rate Structure
Rates for Missionary Transport trucks are figured on the basis of pounds and miles carried. The rates are also affected by how full the truck is on that particular load. You must contact ‘Wycliffe Truck’ in the address above to find out what the rate will be for your shipment.
For Missionary Transport to include your shipment in one of the truck’s routes, they need to have your name, address, phone number, number of crates, weight of goods being shipped, billing information, and any other important details pertinent to your situation. Once they have this information, they can make up a bill of lading and schedule your goods for shipment.
Concerning billing: In your letter ask them to send the bill to your forwarding agent’s address.
NOTE: You should contact them early (before you have all your things packed) to find out their approximate schedule during the period you may need their transport.
9.1.3.
Packing for Ocean Freight
You should send your goods in crates. You may want to use these guidelines for construction:
1. Use 3/8" to ½" plywood. (You may want to use thicker if you plan to use the crate material later for construction.) You may want to line the crate with heavy plastic for additional protection.
2. Under the crate put two 2" x 4" or 4" x 4" runners with the ends sloped so they won’t get hung up. This facilitates fork lift use.
3. 1" x 4" boards can be used to strengthen the sides and ends of the crate if necessary. Use the strengthening boards on the inside of the crate so that you will have a greater internal volume.
4. Crates should be small enough to fit through a 30-inch wide by 78-inch high doorway, and they should be small enough in size and weight for two men to move. If this is not possible we can still handle them but at a higher cost to you for forklifts, trucks, and warehousing. Check to see if you can get your crates bound with steel strapping. They will be less likely to be broken into and they will hold together better if dropped.
5. Request Home of Peace, Fellowship Crating, or JAARS to steel band your crates if you are unable to have this done yourself. (Home of Peace cannot always do this.)
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9.1.3.1.
Packing
Try to get all of your goods together before you start packing. This will enable you to make the most efficient use of space. Keep a detailed list of what is in each container and its value as you pack. Make three copies. Send one to the ADSS, place one set in your container(s) and BRING ONE WITH YOU. THIS IS A VERY IMPORTANT STEP AND YOU MUST DO IT.
JAARS will crate goods sent to them in cardboard boxes for a very reasonable fee, if they have the personnel available. If you use this service, be sure to inform them of the size restrictions stated above. No matter who does your packing YOU are responsible for the packing lists as described in the above paragraph.
9.1.3.2.
Addressing your Shipment
Each container must be addressed as follows:
(Your name)
Pioneer Bible Translators
P. O. Box 178
Madang 511
PAPUA NEW GUINEA
FORWARD
UNDER BOND TO
PIONEER BIBLE TRANSLATORS IN MADANG
To help keep the containers together during shipment, number each container and give total number in the shipment. Example: 1 of 10, 5 of 5, etc.
9.1.3.3.
Bill of Lading
The Bill of Lading must include the following information to be sure that the shipment actually arrives in Madang:
“ FORWARD UNDER BOND TO MADANG TO PIONEER BIBLE TRANSLATORS”
NOTE: You must inform the shipping agent you use to inform the ADSS of all shipping details specifically including who their agent is in PNG. THIS IS IMPORTANT.
9.2.
Surface Mail
A second option you may want to consider is to send some or all of your goods, or at least your lighter, bulkier goods, surface mail through the U.S. Post Office. If you do not have a large quantity of goods this is the most economical option.
Regardless of how you decide to ship your other goods, you may want to ship your books surface mail through the U.S. Post Office. The book rate is often the most economical way to send books overseas. Inquire at the post office for details of weight limitations and special restrictions governing printed matter to PNG. Ask specifically about the mail sack rates and procedures. Allow 3-6 months for goods sent surface mail.
Most teams have sent books by parcel post in M Bags and they have arrived in satisfactory shape. Packing in crates is better for the corners of your boxes, and thus your books. If you do use M Bags for books (you can’t use them for anything but printed material), it’s best if you wrap your books in small bundles (about 4-5 pounds each) and ADDRESS EACH BUNDLE. Many M Bags have broken and the only way you’ll ever see your books is if you have them bundled and addressed. When you get M Bags at the post office, check them carefully and use only bags in good condition with heavy canvas.
9.3.
Prohibited Items
There are hundreds of specific items that cannot be brought into PNG, most of which are either drugs or items that you would not be likely to bring.
Concerning drugs, it is easiest to not bring anything more sophisticated than over-the-counter drugs with you, and get any others you need in PNG. If you need sophisticated prescription drugs, check with the ADSS to make sure they are available here first. For any prescription drugs you do bring, be sure you have a copy of the original prescription, and bring them in the original container in which they were issued. Large quantities of any drug are suspect.
The following is a partial list of items that are ABSOLUTELY PROHIBITED, and seem to be within the realm of possibilities that someone might bring with them. Other items are so unlikely that we have not included them. If you want a complete list, ask for it.
NOTE: PNG Customs service is essentially like any other similar agency in the world. The items listed below are things you MUST NOT BRING WITH YOU OR HAVE SHIPPED TO YOU. Remember that it could be interpreted that you were deliberately trying to circumvent the law. Confiscation will be the most likely result, but YOU COULD BE FINED, PROSECUTED, OR DEPORTED if somebody is in a bad mood or political considerations are such that it would be useful to make an example of you.
NOTE: New clothing is subject to a high import duty, even though you are bringing it in your luggage for your personal use. Determination of what constitutes used clothing usually depends on your word and the fact that there’s no price tags, packaging materials, or other indications visible that indicate that the item was just purchased.
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9.4.
Ham Radios
You may not bring with you or have shipped to you Amateur Radio equipment of any kind until you have a PNG Radio License (even if you have a U.S. license). Do not assume that a PNG reciprocal license will be issued immediately.
If you desire to operate Amateur Radio equipment, please correspond with the ADSS to discuss your options.
10.
Travel to PNG
10.1.
Air Travel Arrangements
You will need to have made tentative travel arrangements in order to complete your Entry Permit application. (You will need a departure date from your travel agent to put on your Entry Permit application). However, do not actually purchase your tickets until you have your Entry Permit in hand unless you understand the risks and are willing to accept them.
10.1.1.
Travel Agent
You can make travel arrangements through any travel agent. However, the following travel agent has been very helpful to some of our members:
Raptim International Travel Organization.
P.O. Box 444
145 N. 4th Street
Lewiston NY 14092
1-800-777-9232
1-888-2RAPTIM
www.RaptimUSA.com
SIAMA of the Netherlands can arrange special fares for
missionaries. You may write, phone, or fax them. (See Section 19. for instructions.)
Call the ISC for other recommendations.
Before you finalize your travel arrangements, check with the ADSS to see if there is any last-minute information that might affect your travel plans.
10.1.2.
Airlines Serving PNG
(a) Air Niugini from Manila, Hong Kong, Singapore, or Australia
phone: 714-752-5440
or 714-492-6389 after hours.
(b) Qantas from Australia.
10.1.3.
Obtaining Kina for your arrival in PNG
While you are making your travel plans, it would be a VERY good idea for you to contact the ADSS and request that the Branch forward to you some cash in PNG Kina. We suggest that you have available to you K300 if you are not overnighting in Port Moresby or more (according to your accommodations) if you are. This money will come out of the fund account that will already have been established for you in PNG and will show up on your first statement.
10.1.4.
Travel Within PNG
You should request that your travel agent make your flight reservation all the way to Madang.
10.1.5.
Travel Insurance
You may want to consider travel insurance to protect against loss due to airline bankruptcy, trip cancellation, failure of your Entry Permit to arrive (if you had to purchase your tickets before getting your Entry Permit due to timing difficulties), or other travel peril.
10.1.6.
Baggage Allowances
Baggage allowances vary among airlines, so be sure to confirm the policies of the airlines on which you will be traveling. Also be aware that in spite of what your travel agent or the various airlines tell you, you may be asked to pay additional baggage charges when you change airlines in transit, particularly if you are dealing with a non-U.S. based carrier.
Air Niugini’s baggage allowance for domestic flights is 16 kilograms (about 33.5 pounds) per adult, 8 kilograms per half-fare child. For those with DIRECT (listed on a single itinerary and with no lengthy stopovers) international connections, Air Niugini allows 20 kilograms (44 pounds). Although your travel agent may tell you differently, this baggage allowance is generally applied to all domestic flying, including international connections, no matter what the connecting carrier allows.
Our experiences have varied through the years, but more often than not members have been required to pay excess baggage charges for the Air Niugini portion of their travel, even if they have not exceeded the international baggage allowance of their connecting carrier. Furthermore, those who have paid excess baggage charges for the international portion of their travel (i.e., Hong Kong to Port Moresby) have at times had to pay again when checking in for their domestic (Port Moresby to Madang) flight. If you transfer directly from your international flight to your domestic one (i.e., if you do not spend the night in Port Moresby), you are much less likely to be charged for overweight baggage, but this is no guarantee.
NOTE: Experience has shown that the USA allowance of two checked bags of up to 70 pounds each for each ticketed passenger MAY get through the Port Moresby to Madang connection IF the passengers proceed quickly through customs and take their luggage directly to the luggage transit counter located in the customs clearance area AND IF there are attendants there to check it onto the flight AND IF they are convinced that you are continuing an international flight and they should not ask you for excess luggage fees. That’s a lot of IFs and ANDs. You have to understand that if you try this and it doesn’t work, it could cost a LOT to get your luggage to Madang from Port Moresby. If you end up having to take your luggage to the regular domestic check in counter, you WILL be charged excess baggage at a high rate, for any amount of weight over the Air Niugini domestic allowance.
10.1.7.
General Information
The ISC and the PNG Branch have lodging information and suggestions for stopovers in Cairns (Australia), Singapore and Hong Kong in addition to the one listed for Hawaii.
If you are making international stopovers, be sure to find out if transit Entry Permits (visas) must be procured before arrival. This is an absolute requirement for Australia. Also, find out what the departure tax for the country is.
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10.2.
Stopover in Port Moresby
10.2.1.
Accommodations
If you plan to overnight in Port Moresby, which we discourage, you need to contact the ADSS requesting accommodations for you there. Give your date for arriving in and departing from Port Moresby, including flight numbers and times. You will be informed of the accommodations that have been booked for you.
10.2.2.
Arrival in Port Moresby
When you receive your passport with your PNG Entry Permit from the PNG Embassy, if you have applied for a resident Entry Permit, you will normally receive a sealed envelope with instructions that you are to hand carry it to the Department of Health. You may give the envelope and your x-ray to the officer who examines your passport on your arrival at the Port Moresby airport, if he asks for them. If he doesn’t ask for them, remind him that you have them. If he doesn’t take them, take them with you to Madang and give them to the ADSS.
Please call us in Madang at your earliest convenience at 852-2440, or after hours at 852-3030, 852-2724, 852-3520, or 852-3014.
If you are spending the night in Port Moresby, you will have to take a taxi to the guest house or whatever hotel you have chosen. Any of the taxis available at the airport are OK, but negotiate your price as a fixed amount IN ADVANCE of loading your luggage and getting in the taxi. If the price is more than about K10 or K15, you might (politely) decline, and try another taxi driver. Be sure to confirm the amount and destination before you actually hire the taxi.
If you are leaving Port Moresby on an early morning flight, it is best to arrange for your taxi the night before. It is also all right to arrange to be picked up by the same taxi that takes you to the guest house. If you are staying at a hotel they will come and pick you up at the airport and take you back for you flight to Madang.
10.2.3.
Arrival Guide
For more detailed information pertaining to your arrival in Port Moresby, we have prepared an outline and summary of the most important information. See Appendix K, Arrival Guide. Before you pack this manual away in your suitcase, detach the Arrival Guide and keep it handy for reference.
10.3.
Medical Information
10.3.1.
Vaccinations
The following vaccinations are not required by the PNG government but are either required or recommended by PBT.
Triple Antigen (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis) Series, (for infants through two years). Teams with infants under two years who are not current in this series will not be allowed to go to villages.
Diphtheria and Tetanus Toxoid, (for children over two years to adults). If you have not received any triple antigen in childhood, a series of at least two is required 6 to 8 weeks apart. The series of two or a booster is required within the last 5 years.
Measles, Mumps, Rubella Vaccine. Optional, but highly recommended.
BCG (Tuberculosis). Strongly recommended in PNG.
Polio. Children and adults should have series (or 2 or 3 doses) and/or a booster within the last 2 years.
Hepatitis B. PBT requires being inoculated against Hepatitis B by taking a series of 3 injections. Health officials in PNG state that to be effective, this must be given intramuscular (rather than interdermal). This is what PBT requires.
If you need these vaccinations, or require more information about them, please consult your family doctor or local health department.
If you are not able to complete courses of certain inoculations they can be completed in PNG but you must inform the ADSS of the details so that supplies can be made available.
10.3.2.
Antimalarial
You must start taking Antimalarial at least 2 weeks before you come to the field. These can be acquired inexpensively from the ISC in Duncanville or from the ADSS.
PBT recommends that you take chloroquine (250 mg. tablets, 150 mg. base), once weekly, always on the same day of the week. Dosages:
Over 100 kg: 3 tablets
50-99 kg: 2 tablets
36-49 kg: 1-1/2 tablets
23-35 kg: 1 tablet
17-22 kg: ¾ tablet
10-26 kg: ½ tablet
Below 10 kg: ¼ tablet
Children under 6 may use chewable infant camoquin (amodiaquine) tablets or Niviquine (chloroquine) liquid. Weekly camoquin/amodiaquine dosages are as follows (100 mg. base tablets):
3-5 kg: ¼ tablet
6-9 kg: ½ tablet
10-16 kg: ¾ tablet
17-20 kg: 1 tablet
Over 20 kg: use chloroquine
To convert kilograms (kg) to pounds, multiply the kilograms times 2.2. For example, 10 kg times 2.2 equals 22 pounds.
Some parts of PNG, including the Madang area, have a strain of malaria that is resistant to chloroquine. Members who will live in these areas are advised to take Maloprim in addition to chloroquine. Dosages are as follows:
5-11 years (18-38 kg): ½ tablet
Over 12 years (over 38 KG): 1 tablet
One in 10,000 Maloprim users suffer from bone marrow depression resulting in a drop in their White Blood Count (WBC). The risk is higher in younger children; hence no dosages are given for them. Any ill effects resolve when Maloprim is discontinued. Therefore it is suggested that you start taking Maloprim at least six weeks before leaving the U.S. and have your family’s WBC checked shortly before you leave. Discontinue the Maloprim for anyone whose WBC has dropped. WBC can be done in PNG as needed.
Chloroquine is recommended as safe for pregnant women. Maloprim in pregnancy is a controversial subject. Take folic acid if you do choose to use Maloprim; check with your gynecologist for his opinion.
Maloprim should not be used by those with a known sulfa allergy.
If you are considering any antimalarial course different from the above recommendations please check with the ADSS before proceeding with it. (In the past some have arrived from the U.S. with Antimalarial which should be reserved for treatment rather than prevention of malaria.)
11.
Transfer of Funds to PNG
These procedures must be followed when transferring funds to PNG to insure that our practices agree with our stated position with various PNG governmental bodies.
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As a member or as a guest under PBT/PNG sponsorship, you are obligated to provide for your own personal and ministry expenses. These funds are administered through a central account and distributed as directed by the member.
From the time you are recommended and approved for service with the PNG Branch, a personal account will be established for you. Certain expenses and services you request will be charged to your account and a monthly statement will be issued to you unless your account has zero balance or no activity.
Prior to your arrival you will be expected to forward enough funds to cover these expenses. You may forward additional funds before your planned arrival at any time and they will be credited to your account. These established procedures for forwarding funds to PNG must be followed except when specific alternate procedures have been pre-approved by the ADSS. Contact the ISC for current information concerning how to forward funds to PNG.
For those spending fewer than 31 days in PNG, there is no advantage to forwarding funds in advance. For visitors, traveler’s checks are the best means of bringing in funds, and they can be exchanged at all banks, including upon entry into PNG; there is a bank outside of the Customs area at the airport.
For those spending 31 days or more it is wise to take advantage of the more reasonable exchange rate provided under the transfer procedures. These procedures are available from the ISC.
Returning members and members coming to the field for the first time should instruct their forwarding agents to start forwarding funds to PNG the month before they plan to depart for the field. This will provide funds for the member on his arrival.
12.
Entry Permit and Approved Position Numbers for Wives
The PNG Government has requested that PBT/PNG support workers apply for Approved Position Numbers for only the husband of each team, except when a wife works or expects to work on a full-time basis on one job as an administrator for the duration of their term. Complying with this request reduces paperwork both for us and for the government and speeds up the Entry Permit approval process. We wish to continue to follow this procedure until it is changed by the government.
This procedure is not in any way meant to be demeaning to women nor does it reflect the Branch’s expectations of wives on the field. It is merely a method of securing Entry Permits for everyone as quickly and painlessly as possible.
Under the current set-up, if the husband’s Approved Position Number is granted, the wife is automatically granted a Entry Permit on the basis of “accompanying spouse.” Similarly, children are “accompanying child.”
This same principal applies to translators and literacy specialists. Once the husband is granted permission to fill a Labour Department Approved Position Number, the rest of the family is automatically granted their Entry Permits on the basis of “accompanying spouse” and “accompanying parent.”
Therefore, Entry Permit applications for wives and children should reflect this reality. Items 7, 13, and 15 on the Entry Permit application form for wives/children should be completed “accompanying spouse/parent.”
Single members should apply for Approved Position Numbers in the same manner as heads of families.
13.
Suggested Timetable (Before Departure)
1. 6 Months: Request Entry Permit application from the PNG Embassy and begin gathering data for resident Entry Permit and Approved Position Number.
2. 4-5 Months: Request the ADSS to send sponsoring letters. You should have your minimum quota committed first. Mail Approved Position Number information (see Section 6.). USE REGISTERED AIR MAIL OR DHL EXPRESS ONLY.
3. 3-5 Months: Apply for a Entry Permit. Begin gathering information and making arrangements for shipping your goods to PNG.
4. Within four weeks of application: Receive Entry Permit (if you do not receive it, call the ADSS).
5. 45-90 Days: Purchase tickets.
REMINDERS-
14.
Addresses
The Papua New Guinea Embassy
Papua New Guinea Embassy
1779 Massachusetts Avenue, NW, Suite 805
Washington,
DC 20036
Phone: 202-745-3680
Fax: 202-745-3679
PBT International Service Center (ISC)
Pioneer Bible Translators
7500 W.
Camp Wisdom Road
Dallas, TX 75236
Office: 972-708-7460
Office Fax: 972-708-7463
Home: 972-298-1354 (David Parrish)
Papua New Guinea Branch ADSS
ADSS
Pioneer Bible Translators
P.O. Box 178
Madang
511
PAPUA NEW GUINEA
International Direct Dial
Office: 675-852-2440
Office Fax: 675-852-2506
ADSS
House: 675-852-3030
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Our information on the time period for lowest rates varies, so check with your long distance carrier. See Appendix J for a time zone table.
Your Address While in PNG:
PBT/PNG has two post office box numbers. P.O.
Box 178 is our official business address. P.O. Box 997 is for members’
personal mail. Mail must be addressed to you in PNG as follows:
(Your name)
c/o Pioneer Bible Translators
P.O.. Box 997
Madang 511
PAPUA NEW
GUINEA
15.
Sample Letters
(SAMPLE 1)
(Your address)
Date
The Papua New Guinea Embassy
1615 New Hampshire Ave., NW
Washington, DC
20009
Dear Sirs:
I am planning to work in Papua New Guinea as a voluntary worker with Pioneer Bible Translators. Would you please send me all the information I need concerning application for a (type of Entry Permit), and the necessary application forms? I will need applications for myself, my wife and (how many) children who will accompany me.
Thank you very much for your assistance in this matter.
Sincerely yours,
Note for sample letter above: for (type of Entry Permit) enter:
“Resident
Entry Permit” for full time PBT member or Short
Term Assistant
“Short Term
Entry Permit” for guest helper, interns, and work party.
NOTE: delete items not applicable.
You may increase your chances of getting the correct applications and information if you underline the words voluntary worker in your letter.
(SAMPLE 2)
(Your Address)
Date
The Papua New Guinea Embassy
1615 New Hampshire Ave., NW
Washington, DC 20009
Sirs:
Enclosed please find completed Entry Permit application forms and related documents for (full names of persons requiring Entry Permits). We trust that everything is in order and that the Entry Permits can be processed quickly. Also please find our U.S. passports, numbers (list numbers), and our organization’s sponsoring letter.
Our sponsoring organization (Pioneer Bible Translators, P. O. Box 178, Madang) is contacting all appropriate authorities and making all necessary arrangements in Papua New Guinea.
Please handle the approved Entry Permit/Passport by (courier, express mail, air mail; you designate one of these).
Thank you for your cooperation in this matter.
Sincerely yours,
(SAMPLE 3)
(Your address)
Date
The Papua New Guinea Embassy
1615 New Hampshire Ave., NW
Washington, DC 20009
Dear Sirs:
I am interested in applying for a Tourist Entry Permit to Papua New Guinea. I plan to be in Papua New Guinea for (number) days. Would you please send me the proper application form or forms and all necessary information concerning such a Entry Permit? Thank you very much for your assistance in this matter.
Sincerely yours,4
16.
Entry Permit Application
IMPORTANT NOTE: Within this document and in correspondence concerning travel the term Visa and the term Entry Permit mean exactly the same thing.
Most items on the Entry Permit application are self-explanatory. For the items listed below you should supply this information:
PURPOSE: Tick Special Exemption and circle Religious Worker.
How Long do you wish to stay in PNG: 3 Years
Personal Details: OCCUPATION:
for Husband/Single member: (List job title supplied
by the ADSS)
for
Wife: Accompanying Spouse
for Children: Accompanying Parents
Organizational Sponsor:
Pioneer Bible Translators
P.O. Box 178, Madang 511
Papua
New Guinea
Phone 852-2440
Travel Arrangements:
Name of vessel/airline: Show the airline on which you will leave the U.S. and the airline on which you will arrive in PNG.
Port of Departure: Show the city from which you will you leave the U.S. and the last city from which you will leave before arriving in PNG.
Date of Departure: Show date that you will start your trip.
Port of Entry into Papua New Guinea: Show first PNG city in which you are to arrive to clear customs. Normally this will be Port Moresby.
For Entry for the Purposes of Employment:
You must attach all of the four documents listed.
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17.
Notification
AS YOU COMPLETE EACH OF THE STEPS LISTED, BEGINNING ON THE FOLLOWING PAGE, FILL OUT THE REQUIRED INFORMATION, DETACH AND SEND TO THE PBT/PNG ADSS.
STATEMENT 2 NORMALLY MUST BE ACCOMPLISHED AND THEN REPORTED TO THE ADSS VIA THIS STATEMENT BEFORE WE WILL CONTINUE THE EXPATRIATION PROCESS. However, we should send a sponsoring letter to Port Moresby no later than three months before your departure date. If timing is a problem, call the ADSS. However, you must have full quota before leaving for PNG.
*** IMPORTANT ***
PLEASE REREAD THE ABOVE PARAGRAPH AND MAKE SURE YOU UNDERSTAND IT.
NOTE: The individual statements start at the bottom of page 13 and continue backwards to the cut line below this paragraph. That is so you can start using them from the end without losing these instructions.
cut here
6. I have made the following arrangements to have my goods sent to PNG:
Shipping agency
Name of Ship
Port of Departure
Date of Departure
Date of Arrival in Madang
I have mailed copies of supporting evidence of my qualifications (See Sections 12. and ).
Signed
Date