Transition to Post-Military Life

Transition to post-military life is the process by which a CAF member prepares for civilian life after release. Transition support related to the domains of well-being is available to CAF members during their transition to post-military life.

Description of the figure

This diagram illustrates the cycle of a military career, broken down into the following phases:

1. Enrolment
2. Initial Training
3. Beneficial Contributions (Variable depending on the number of years in the CAF)
4. Transition to Post-Military Life 
5. Release
6. Return to Civilian Life – Veteran

At some point in your professional/personal journey, you will leave the CAF to embark on a new professional career or a well-deserved retirement. This graphic highlights the importance of gradually planning this inevitable transition and taking advantage of all opportunities to adequately prepare for it throughout your military career.

The transition process encompasses much more than completing the administrative aspects of release and leaving the Forces, which was our previous process. Transition requires thoughtful and thorough preparation and often social, emotional, and psychological adjustments as a person and as a family. It therefore takes time.

Every member of the CAF will undergo transition at some point and every member will experience transition differently. Furthermore, the families who have been supporting these CAF members are also affected, and will experience challenges differently.

Back to top

Your Transition Guide

This guide covers many transition-related topics that will help members and their families to develop a plan based on informed decisions. It will also assist you and your family in navigating this process and highlight choices, support options, avenues and benefits that are available. The guide is organized into sections that reflect the seven domains of well-being to ensure that you can plan for your transition as seamlessly as possible by using all the information and tools included.

Your Transition Guide will be a valuable resource as you and your family embark on this new journey together.

Medical vs Non-Medical Administrative Release process image

Description of the figure

This is the typical administrative release process for medical releases. There are four paths a member can take:

1. Start: Incident/Condition
   • 1st T Cat 6 months
   • 2nd T Cat 6 months
   • P Cat
   • D Med Pol Review
   • Breach of U of Servc?
     • (If no) Review med profile
       • End: Return to Unit
2. Start: Incident/Condition
   • 1st T Cat 6 months
   • 2nd T Cat 6 months
   • P Cat
   • D Med Pol Review
   • Breach of U of Servc?
     • (If yes) DMCA review/decision
     • (If retention is selected) Review med profile
       • End: Return to Unit
3. Start: Incident/Condition
   • 1st T Cat 6 months
   • 2nd T Cat 6 months
   • P Cat
   • D Med Pol Review
   • Breach of U of Servc?
     • (If yes) DMCA review/decision
     • (If release is selected) Disclosure
     • Release section (admin)
       • End: Return to Unit
4. Start: Incident/Condition
   • 1st T Cat 6 months
   • 2nd T Cat 6 months
   • Initiate transition process
     • Ref VAC
       • End: Release

Description of the figure

This is the typical administrative release process for non-medical releases. There are two paths a member can take:

1. Start: Intent to release
   • Release request
   • Unit retention interview
   • Authorization Unit/CM
   • Release section (admin)
     • End: Release
2. Start: Intent to release
   • Initiate transition process
   • Ref VAC
     • End: Release

Please note that the time to process each file will be different (i.e. a 5F release vs 30 days) but in general, this is the typical administrative release process for medical and non-medical releases. Medical releases may take up to 3 years from the first TCAT up to DOR compared to non-medical releases which can be processed in 30 days for some, and up to 6 months for others.

What's New?

The Digital Transition Centre (DTC). While this Transition Guide remains a very useful collection of information on transition, the CAF TG has invested heavily in digitizing its practices and reference tools to better support transitioning military members and their families. Thus, the DTC was created and incorporates all relevant information on retention and transition. It is a digital portal that enables you to request support from a Transition Advisor (TA), initiate your personalized Transition Plan, and much more. The DTC also includes a portal that allows you to initiate your release request online, a process that previously began with writing a memo.

You can access the DTC here.

The integration of these new capabilities has led to changes in previous practices regarding transition and release. Below you will see the previous transition/release process, compared to the recommended process today.

Description of the figure

This graphic represents the previous release process (transactional only), compared to the recommended transition/release process today.

Before

Only Transactional

1. Unit
2. Release Section

After

Introspection/reflection (retention options) + guided support + transactional

1. Member
2. Transition Centre (optional), (retention options)
3. Unit
4. Release section

To help you understand the new steps to follow, two quick reference guides have been created (one for the military member and one for the chain of command).

Member

Non-medical release

10-Step Quick Guide

1. Learn about the transition/release process
   • Go to the Military Career Transition page and select the Digital Transition Center (DTC) tab for various relevant information, including Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Retention/Transition/Release.
2. Start your transition process
   • If you would like to initiate your transition process (strongly recommended before initiating your release request), log in to the Transition Services portal (via DTC) with your Office 365 account. This action will generate initial contact with your local Transition Center.
3. Retention options
   • Initiate a process of reflection on the retention options available to you with a Transition Advisor (support from a Transition Advisor is not mandatory but strongly recommended).
4. Initiate my request for release
   • Now better informed on transition process and retention options, if your release is not associated with an end of term of service/AOR, initiate your voluntary release request using the digital release request portal (via DTC) if no option of retention is considered.
5. Unit Retention Interview (URI)
   • A digital release request will generate the Unit Retention Interview (URI) with your Chain of Command. This collaborative interview is to formally determine if a plan could be developed to keep you in the CAF.
6. Start your transition plan
   • A transition plan must be developed for a successful transition to civilian life. While a basic format is available within the DTC so you can run independently, being guided by a Transition Advisor is a significant asset and will ensure that all your transition needs are considered).
7. Functions/tasks and transition
   • At the start of the last 6 months before your planned/approved release date (approximate time frame), discuss with your Chain of Command your responsibilities and tasks so that they are consistent with the imperatives of your transition process. It is also important to address unit support during the protected period in the last 30 days before you are released from the CAF.
8. Implementation of the transition plan
   • Work with your Transition Advisor (if applicable) and as per your Personalized Transition Plan, complete the various tasks, meetings and training listed, including those associated with the family transition.
9. Release Section
   • In recent weeks, the administrative process associated with your release from the CAF has been orchestrated by the Release Section. The objective is to finalize all administrative and financial aspects associated with your release from the CAF (leave, pay, update in systems, discharge, etc.).
10. Final preparations before CAF release
    • Pre-release medical assessment, pre-release contact with VAC through a transition meeting, unit discharge procedures, final items to be completed within the transition plan, etc.

Chain of command

Non-medical release

8-Step Quick Guide

1. Direct military personnel to key information
   • Encourage them to visit Military Career Transition page and select the Digital Transition Center (DTC) tab to access relevant information, including the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on retention/transition/release.
2. Understand the reasons for the intention to release
   • Informally, seek to understand the military member’s reasons for intending to release from the CAF and propose solutions if possible (factors at the unit/GC level).
3. Plan the URI
   • If the military member initiates their release request via the DTC (Digital Transition Center), this will allow the member to prepare for the Unit Retention Interview (URI) which is automatically generated.
4. Initiate and conduct the URI
   • Following the Monitor Mass notification (COs corner), conduct the Unit Retention Interview (RMEI) with the military member in accordance with the new transition/release process in effect (CFG 139-24).
5. Approval of the release request
   • If the release from the CAF is the chosen option for the military member, collaborate with Career Management/Release Section to optimize the approval process, which directly impacts the development of the transition plan for the member.
6.  Functions and tasks adapted to the transition context
   • Particularly during the last 6 months before the projected/approved release date, support the military member by promoting a schedule compatible with the completion of their various transition-related commitments (in accordance with the transition risk assessment and integrated meetings and tasks within the Personalized Transition Plan).
7. Last 30 days – Prioritization of the transition
   • During the last 30 days before release, encourage and facilitate that meetings, activities, and tasks associated with the military member’s transition/release take precedence over all other unit tasks to facilitate the transition from military to civilian life.
8. Departure with dignity
   • Plan a departure with dignity (DWD) in accordance with the military member’s wishes and current policies, recognizing their contributions and promoting their role as an ambassador for a career within the CAF to the civilian population.

When undergoing a transition to post-military life, there is the option of a recommended six months transition period, including a 30 day protected period prior to your date of release.

The intent of the six months transition period (or otherwise applicable time frame) prior to release is that alongside your normal duties, CAF members are completing preliminary administration, conducting training, and accessing programs and services in preparation for transition (as per image below).

Description of the figure

This diagram illustrates the last 6 months of the transition period and describes some of the tasks to be completed during this time. During the first 5 months, a schedule compatible with the completion of various transition-related tasks is recommended, while during the last 30 days, transition tasks should be prioritized over regular unit tasks.

Start Here

First 5 months (supported period) - Transition tasks concurrent with regular duties:

• Develop transition plan
• SCAN training
• Med/dent work
• Apply for CAF LTD/VRP
• Academic Requirements
• Employment preparation
• Spousal employment
• Civilian job interviews
• BGRS.IPR/housing search
• Family transition prep/assistance
• Apply fir VAC benefits
• Retirement planning
• 3rd party support
• Other
• Develop your personalized transition plan

Last 30 days (protected period) – Focus on Transition:

• Release Admin
• Release med
• VAC Interview
• Work handover
• Return to school final prep
• Civ job confirmation
• Family support
• IPR move/HHT
• Secure housing
• Turn in kit
• DWD
• Terminal leave
• Other  

Release Date

30-Day Protected Period

The CAF is committed to supporting the 30-day Protected Period immediately preceding a CAF member’s date of honorable release or commencement of retirement leave. During this period, you should be able to focus on your transition plan, complete administrative tasks, and release activities. However, although your focus will be on the Military Civilian Transition related activities, which will take precedence during this period, you will still be required to report to your current place of duty daily.

Back to top

In Concert with Chain of Command

Your CoC is here to support you in your transition. As a valued CAF member, possible retention within the CAF/DND or other Government of Canada (GOC) departments will be the first option explored. Throughout the transition process, your CoC can be counted on to offer valuable advice and will ensure that you are connected with the team at the local TC to support you and your family.

The CAF is a strong community, and retaining our skilled, experienced, and well-trained members is our first priority.

The Unit Retention Interview (URI) has been developed within the CAF to help track attrition issues, and to serve as a meansof stimulating retention discussions between the memberand their CoC. It will be administered as part of the CAF Release Administration (CAFRA) System to all Reg F and Res F voluntary releasing members before submission of their voluntary release request. Completion of the URI will trigger an interview with the unit Commanding Officer (CO) or their delegate to ensure the CoC is able to try and mitigate the member’s reasons for release. In addition to the URI, members and the CoC are expected to have retention-related discussions throughout a member's career, such as during the process of renewing a member’s Terms of Service (TOS). In other words, CoCs and members are encouraged to discuss retention even before a formal request for release is submitted.

Back to top

As in the Military, You Need a Plan

While some members may have a solid plan in place and know exactly what they want to do next, many transitioning members may only have a general idea about their next mission

in life. Many military members have focused on their military careers and have never truly contemplated what they might do when the time comes to depart the CAF. It is highly encouraged that you consider eventual transition options for you and your family as you progress throughout your military service, and not just leave this critical planning to the end of your service.

Like any major life decision or shifts, transition is truly worth the time and effort to make informed decision that are right for you and your family. While this can feel intimidating and complex, it can also be a very exciting and rewarding time in your life/career. Just as one prepares for operational deployments and postings, CAF TG encourages you to discuss transition options and plans with your family.

Back to top

The Good News: You Have Developed Numerous Skills and Competencies

Since enrolling in the CAF, you have integrated into military culture and adopted its ethics and values. As you and your family open a new chapter in your lives, more adaptation will be required as you discover a new purpose, create new relationships, and potentially move to a new location.

Your military experiences have made you resilient, have armed you with a multitude of skills and competencies that will enable your transition and that are transferable to your new life as a Veteran.

Back to top

You Have Already Experienced Transition in Your Career

You have already made many transitions in your military career and personal life, such as postings, promotions, deployments, and occupation transfers and commissioning (as applicable). Many of the lessons that you and your family have learned from these experiences will likely generate numerous questions. Please don’t hesitate to ask these questions, as they will assist in the development of a quality Transition Plan.

Based on your experience, here are some questions to consider:

• Which transitions went well, and which ones did not? And why?
• What did I learn from these experiences, both positive and negative?
• Who were the people who helped or guided me?
• How did our family handle these transitions? What can be done differently?

These experiences will also affect how you will make the psychological, emotional, and social changes required to successfully transition from military to civilian life.

Back to top

Peer Support

Talk to Someone

If you are worried about making the transition, or need assistance with some of the practical aspects, talk to someone and seek advice – from a co-worker, friend, a family member, your local base chaplain, a psychologist, social worker, CAF Long Term Disability (LTD) Case Manager, CAF Vocational Rehabilitation Program (VRP) Counsellor, and/or a member of the Canadian Forces Health Services (CFHS) team or a member of the TC such as a TA or TPSO. If you don’t feel comfortable approaching the CAF for help, a list of helplines and support resources can be found in the next section.

Find a Mentor

Consider finding yourself a mentor, someone you respect and can call on for advice, and feel comfortable talking to. This may be someone you know who has already successfully made the transition from the CAF. They may be able to share some of their experiences and offer helpful suggestions. Based on their experience, they may offer tips, such as:

• Plan ahead but take things one day at a time. Decision-making can be overwhelming; take it slow and don’t overlook the simple things. Break things down into manageable chunks.
• Stay active: maintain a good diet, exercise regularly, sleep, nurture your social life, and enjoy hobbies and travel.
• Be patient. The transition process can sometimes take several years.
• Get involved with the civilian community, and with your new work colleagues. Become one of them.

Back to top

Psychological Aspects

Although everyone understands and accepts that eventually, we will all move on from the CAF, no amount of preparation can lessen the shock factor when we are approaching our own transition timelines either by personal choice or other reasons.

Any type of change can be exciting, as well as potentially stressful. Leaving the military is often accompanied by significant changes, especially if you have been with the CAF for a long time. These changes are not isolated to your employment; they can span many dimensions of your life including change of your employer, where you live, your social contacts and networks.

Most people adjust easily in terms of settling into life after the CAF; however, some individuals may experience uncertainty and a loss of confidence.

Insufficient preparedness to leave and lack of planning for the period ahead can lead to more difficulties adapting; failing to prepare is preparing to fail.

Regardless of your circumstances, there is a significant amount of change associated with the transition experience.

Stages of Change

When confronted with a major change, like transition out of uniform, most people undergo a similar progression of stages. Understanding these stages helps to better cope with the change process and provides reassurance when one feels overwhelmed.

Major life changes are psychologically complex, and many people experience a range of emotions as they release from the military.

While the first few months post-release are often characterized by excitement and anticipation, members who were not adequately prepared for this life change have indicated that they faced struggles several months post-release. One way of mentally preparing for a change of this magnitude can be through understanding a model known as the Stages of Change.

This model is based on the idea that change does not happen in a single step but rather change occurs in six major stages that define and complete the process people experience. Many have found it might be helpful to frame their transition in these stages shown below.

Description of the figure

Military Service

1. Stage 1: Pre-contemplation - I am an actively serving member.
2. Stage 2: Contemplation - Do I want to leave the military? Am I ready?
3. Stage 3: Preparation - I have decided or my personal situation have me leaving, now I need to explore the next step.
4. Stage 4: Action - Working my way through each Domain of Well-Being to ensure I have a plan for seamless transition.
5. Stage 5: Maintenance - I am out of uniform and am contnuing to build my identity as a civilian.
6. Stage 6: Termination- I am now a veteran and firmly rooted in a community in Canadian civil society.

Civilian Life

Think about which stage you are currently in, then look at the next stage to get an idea of what you should be working towards.

What Can I Expect?

Fully transitioning from the CAF may take some time. For many, transition is about more than leaving a job but leaving a way of life. The strong sense of purpose and belonging that comes from serving in the CAF can be greatly missed when beginning a new chapter in life. When members transition out of the CAF, they typically feel as though they have lost a part of themselves or that they no longer belong to something. Some liken it to the grieving or change process, where people can go through a period of shock and denial before acceptance and adaptation. Based on your experience in the CAF, how can you transition your strong sense of purpose to civilian life? Can you do anything right now to reduce the shock of change?

Self-Identity

Your personal identity is shaped by many things, including your role as a member of the CAF. When a person joins the CAF, they join a military organization, a family, and begin to create their military identity. They learn the profession of arms, military language, military law, and may become disconnected from their civilian lives and friends. These are some of the realities, or sacrifices, that joining the military requires. They may see themselves as military first and foremost. When you make the transition from the CAF, you may feel that an important part of your identity has been lost. Ask yourself, does the transition to “Civvy Street” cause an identity crisis in me? Do I need to define my identity for the future? Remember, no matter where you go or what you do in retirement, your ethos - developed during your military service – will serve you well as the basis of your identity in your civilian life.

Some of the most significant challenges people often face during the military to civilian transition are questions surrounding identity. After all, it is very common for active service members to strongly identify with the military, and even consider the military a part of their sense of self. This should come as no surprise, of course - the military deliberately establishes a collective identity in its members beginning with basic training. It has a good reason for doing this, too: people with strong military identities are much more likely to successfully integrate into their operational units, and a shared social identity tend to even enhance overall well-being.

However, an unfortunate consequence of this shared military identity is that everyone takes off the uniform someday, which means this identity does not last forever. Consequently, transitioning out of the CAF will involve a shift in your identity. This can be one of the most difficult parts of transition, especially for those who have had positive experiences in the CAF and who may not be releasing voluntarily. Fortunately, a better understanding of the mechanics behind your military identity will enable you to be more proactive during the transition from CAF member, retired CAF member or Veteran.

An identity is, fundamentally, the culmination of how someone sees themselves as a whole person. The component of identity that plays the biggest role in transition is known as social identity, which is how people see themselves as members of important groups. Social identities are formed by the groups people belong to, and grow deeper and more complex asthey adopt the culture, norms, values, and beliefs of the groups in their lives. This means that our social identities change throughout our lives as we transition between groups, but that does not mean that change is always easy. Above all else, it is important that you are patient with yourself and accept that it takes time to adjust to new identities after taking off the uniform.

There are some challenges that you must be prepared to face when you are trying to adopt a civilian identity. Many civilians do not readily understand military identities; therefore, it is crucial to recognize that challenges will arise relating to civilians, and they will experience challenges relating to you. The stress of social identity challenges can lead to physical and mental health challenges, added stress in social relationships in your new career, community, and family.

To ensure that you remain positive throughout the experience, refrain from believing in and telling a negative story of your life. Avoid identifying with social groups that promote false and negative stereotypes – especially ones about civilians – and try to embrace a new and healthy social identity as a Veteran. Reg F members can develop civilian identities by joining a community or volunteering. Reserve Force (Res F) members who serve part-time and have civilian jobs already have civilian identities, but they also need to mentally prepare for removing the uniform, a symbol of the loss of military identity.

Some things you can do to help in adjusting to a new post-transition identity include:

• Seeking out other transitioning members, or those who have already transitioned, and learn from their experiences.
• Finding new social groups, by joining new communities or engaging in volunteer work with other civilians. This can help you become accustomed to working with civilians and will help build the foundation of a new identity.
• Planning a Departure with Dignity (DWD) event. These events can add a sense of closure to your lifetime in the military and are an enjoyable and meaningful way to publicly end this part of your journey as you prepare to embark on another.
• Trying to build other parts of your identity beyond the CAF before you leave, as a parent, partner, hobby enthusiast, friend, and community member.

Having a broad identity enhances your self-esteem and mental health while serving. After you leave the CAF, these hobbies, civilian friends, family, and passions are likely to help reduce the sense of loss. This does not mean you should cut yourself off from your existing friendships and networks within the CAF, as maintaining existing friendships is also important.

Military Culture

The CAF military culture is strong. Years of identification and bonding with military people can sometimes make it difficult for you to form new relationships and friendships in civilian life. You may feel you have less value in your civilian roles. Your experiences in our disciplinedservice environment may also lead you to feel impatient and frustrated with civilian attitudes and behaviours that may appear to lack structure, direction, and discipline. A strong mission orientation and a focus on achieving a task are not necessarily prevalent in all organizations. Softer skills are required to shape and influence. That said, like the Profession of Arms, many civilian professions also have a strong culture; they have specific terminology, and they communicate in a manner that works for their profession. The professional culture of teachers, engineers, lawyers, chefs, physicians, scientists, etc., all have distinct cultures that work for them. Part of your mission-prep for civilian life is to gain an understanding of those cultures so that you can communicate and participate in civilian life.

Family Dynamics and Relationships

While military families are typically used to adapting to new situations, it is important to remember that they are also transitioning:

• Transition may mean a new place to live, new responsibilities and changes to schools, jobs, and friends.
• Families may have more experience with transition than you, the member. If your spouse has changed jobs and your kids have changed schools often, they have experienced big life changes and transitions outside the CAF. Be willing to learn from their experiences.
• Families usually feel immense pride in their member’s service and may have even taken on some of the status of the military member. When a partner or other family member transitions from the CAF, families can feel a sense of loss.
• Families may find relief in the decision, seeing opportunities for new beginnings and more time together now that the demanding military career has ended.
• There may be a need to renegotiate shared responsibilities aligned to new roles.
• Families may experience stress as they navigate the transition process and make decisions for their future.

During this period of change, communication is extremely important. It will help to be aware of some of the challenges that people commonly encounter and what you can do to help manage them.

Family members can meet with the FTA to develop a Family Transition Plan. The Family Transition plan can create a strategy to address the family’s needs and well-being as they progress through the transition process and help them adapt to new situations while they work towards their goals.

Look After Your Health

The transition to civilian life can challenge your resilience and have an impact on your overall health. It is not always easy to recognize the signs that something is going wrong. The cumulative impact of events in your life – your relationships, physical health, jobs, and family well-being – can be challenging, and can erode your mental health, even in circumstances where you were previously thriving.

The Mental Health Continuum (see Figure 2) is a useful tool for keeping an eye on how you are progressing and the potential impact transition may be having on your behavior, what you are thinking, and how you are feeling. Common markers of mental health are grouped into themes: mood, performance, sleep patterns, physical health, social interaction, and activities. You can see how problems increase and functioning decreases as you move towards the right of the continuum. Just as health can deteriorate over time in response to changing life circumstances, it is also possible to return to full functioning, particularly when monitoring for early signs and acting accordingly.

Description of the figure

Mental health continuum

Healthy

• Normal mood fluctuations, calm and takes things in stride
• Good sense of humour, performing well, in controll
• Normal sleep patterns, few sleep difficulties
• physically well, good energy level
• Physically and socially active
• no/limited alcoholuse/ gambling

Reacting

• Irritable/Impatient, Nervous, Sadness/Overwhelmed
• Displaced sarcasm, procrastination, forgetfulness
• Trouble sleeping, intrusive thoughts, nightmares
• Muscle tension, headaches, low energy
• decreased activity, reduced socializing
• Regular but controlled alcohol use/gambling

Injured

• Anger, anxiety, pervasiavely sad/hopeless
• Negative attitude, poor performance/Workaholic, poor concentration, poor decision-making
• Restless disturbed sleep, recurrent images, recurrent nightmares
• Increased aches and pains, increased fatigue
• avoidance, withdrawal
• Increased alcohol use/gambling - hard to control

Ill

• Angry outburts/aggression/excessive anxiety/Panic attacks, Depressed/suicidal thoughts
• Overt insubordination, can't perform duties, control behaviour or concenrate
• Can't fall asleep or stay asleep, sleeping too much or too little
• Physical illnesses, constant fatigue
• Not going out or answering phone
• Alcohol or gambling addiction, other addictions

Asking for help can make the transition easier. Doing so is not a sign of weakness, but rather a positive step towards regaining and maintaining a sense of control in life.

The key to adapting to change is focusing on what you can control and not trying to influence things you can’t change. Don’t try to do everything on your own: ask for support and involve other people. The CFHS Intranet website (Accessible only on the National Defence network) also provides a range of information and tools for maintaining your health.

Back to top

Military to Civilian Transition Process

Transition requires effort and work, but you do not have to do it alone. CAF TG has developed a model of Military to Civilian Transition (MCT) with a five-step process, which can be adapted to meet the needs of the member. The MCT Process will help you understand the different phases of transition, and the various actions you should take during your career, to ensure you are “ready to transition” when the time comes

Description of the figure

This infographic describes the 5 steps of the support process in transitioning from military to civilian life :

Active Service: Member and their family (CAF)

The members will ideally work with the CAF Transition Group from 6 months to 1 year.

1. Step 1: Decision to Transition
2. Step 2: Understanding Transition
3. Step 3: Transition Plan
4. Step 4: Monitoring
5. Step 5: Date of Release

Veteran: Successful reintegration into civilian life (VAC)

Members are supported through the transition process by SCs and TAs who help members connect to the right resources, services and supports. They assist with the MCT steps as follows:

1. Decision to Transition: Make an informed decision about your future and the right time to transition. Retention options will be explored for consideration, such as pursuing an occupation transfer
2. Understanding Transition:Identify the areas in your life where you need the most support — including but not limited to: Finances, Employment, Sense of Purpose, Physical and Mental health, and Social Integration
3. Transition Plan: Develop your Transition Plan that outlines your goals, actions, resources, timelines, outcomes and mutual responsibilities between you and your TA. This may also include recommendations from your transition support team such as VAC and Military Family Services
4. Monitoring and Training: Determine the level of support that works best for you in implementing your plan. Support may range from independent but guided support up to hands-on and directed support. Agree upon a schedule of monitoring and follow up to ensure your plan is working for you or make adjustments as required
5. Support Continuum: Post-release formal engagement and support from VAC and/or key service partners according to your personal Transition Plan.

Back to top

Initial Transition Process

The Chain of Command

The first step of the Military to Civilian Transition (MCT) process – Decision to Transition – consists of guided support intended to assist you in making an informed decision about release or Component Transfer (CT). Before making a decision, you are encouraged to talk with your CoC, research transition on the Canada.ca Military Transition pages and become familiar with the information available at the Digital Transition Centre (DTC). At the DTC, you can book an appointment with a guided support team that includes a TA, RA, and SC. During this appointment you can discuss your intent and ask questions to ensure you are aware of options available for you to be retained in the CAF and/or the implications on your personal transition-related benefits and services. Your Unit CoC remains responsible to assist you during your transition but your guided-support team and other professionals at the Transition Centre are here to help.

The CAF TG mechanisms and services are there to assist both you and your CoC.

Back to top

Retention

Members contemplating requesting a VR from the CAF are encouraged to discuss alternative employment options within the CAF with their CoC or other subject matter experts (SMEs), such as a TPSO, Career Manager, or a TA, before submitting a formal request for release. Discussing reasons for which you are considering or intending to transition out of the CAF may highlight options that could be considered to keep you in uniform, if desired. Additionally, discussing dissatisfiers will provide the CAF with information that could, in turn, be used to make positive changes. The CAF is making concerted efforts to improve the culture and ensure our workplace is more inclusive, diverse, and professional. Additionally, our efforts to retain our talented members highlight the importance of considering members’ dissatisfiers and addressing them, when feasible.

In-Service Transition Options

Not all transitions need to involve leaving the CAF/DND. You can explore other options for both full-time and part-time work, which you may be eligible for, depending on your reason for release.

You don’t have to get out of the CAF/DND to change your employment. Alternative options exist, such as:

• Modification of your Operational Tempo, tasks/duties, work settings/arrangements
• Job sharing or internal role change within unit
• Leadership opportunities
• OUTCAN opportunities or exchange programs
• Career-related training
• Deployments
• Leave Without Pay (LWOP)
• Formal Flexible Working Arrangements
• Planned Working Time (Part-Time)
• Talk to your CoC about posting possibilities
• Parental Leave
• Learning or professional development opportunities
• Education Leave
• Voluntary Occupation Transfer
• Commissioning
• Subsidized or paid education
• Component Transfer (CT)
  • Reg F to Res F
  • Res F to Reg F
  • COAT
  • Canadian Rangers
  • Supp Res
• DND Civilian Employment (Release required but it may be possible to reactivate your security clearance; see section on the Security Clearance Retention in the chapter on Purpose)
• Other Federal Public Service opportunities (Release required but you can keep your security clearance; see section on the Security Clearance Retention in the chapter on Purpose)

Component Transfers

Have you considered joining the Reserve Force (Res F) or, if you are in the Reserves, considered joining the Regular Force (Reg F)? Have you considered a sub-component of the Reserves?

Continuing service in the Reserves can provide you with a sense of connection, financial security, and can reduce the loss of camaraderie and shared history.

The Res F consists of enthusiastic part-time professionals who train during their spare time, mainly on weekends, and get the best of both civilian and military life. You could be a valuable addition to these units and would be able to keep the best aspects of the military as you transition into civilian life – as well as bringing a wealth of experience and knowledge to these units.

Res F deploy and contribute to large-scale exercises around the world, so by remaining a part of the Reserves after your Reg F service, you too may get the same exciting opportunities. Reserves also have the opportunity for full-time engagements to further their careers.

Certain sub-components of the Reserves, such as Canadian Rangers or COATS can continue to give you a sense of connection and belonging as well as increase your opportunity to transfer back to the P Res or the Reg F.

The Reg F is also a good option for those Reservists who want to continue their servicefull-time. Remember that the CAF has invested in your training, and you may still be able tocontribute to the CAF mission.

Voluntary Release and Component Transfer Process

Should you decide to continue with release or a CT, formal notification to your CoC is required. In lieu of the former request for release, which was a hard copy memorandum, you can now access the eCAFRA internet-web-portal from a link at the DTC – information about how to register and login at the portal is also available at the same location. At the eCAFRA internet-web-portal you will find the Unit Retention interview (URI), the Voluntary Release (VR) Application, and the CT application. You will complete the URI and either the VR or CT applications. The information from the URI will be made available to your CO or their designate to inform them of your intent and the reason(s) for your decision to transition in preparation for a CO’s interview. The CO’s questions to be asked during the URI are available at the DTC to help prepare you in advance. The VR or CT application will be made available to your Release Authority for approval in accordance with QR&O Chapter 15.

Following completion of the member’s portion of the online URI, your CO, or the CO’s designate, will review your personnel file and meet with you to:

• Clarify your reasons for requesting a voluntary release (VR);
• Conduct the CO’s portion of the URI (conducted only with members requesting a VR);
• Discuss options for retention (what needs are not currently being met by the CAF? If these needs were met, would this affect your decision to leave?) and
• Assess your willingness to meet with specialist(s) to assess other options.

If suitable to your circumstances, your CoC will investigate the possibilities for retention by contacting your career manager or any other stakeholder as appropriate (this may include specialists, such as a Medical Officer (MO), Social Worker or PSO) to clarify possible or suitable courses of action.

If it has been determined that retention in the CAF is possible, your CoC will engage in the necessary action(s) to mitigate the dissatisfier or facilitate your new career aspirations.

If VR is still the desired option, the CoC will support and facilitate your transition experience.

Compulsory release / medical release

For compulsory release, your CoC will be informed of the release date and will ensure that the transition process starts as soon as possible, to best facilitate a successful transition.

For medical release, your CoC will ensure that all the supports are in place to assist in your transition. If you have questions, contact your local TC Services Section. You will likely be engaged with the Services Team long before a decision to release is made, however, your Services Coordinator will assist in guiding you through this process.

Your CoC and CO are responsible to ensure that all the components of the transition process are available, and they are required to confirm/authorize various steps of your transition from military to civilian life (See Annex A for the Commanding Officer (CO) Aide Memoire).

Back to top

Your Decision to Transition

Ask Yourself if You Are Ready to Transition

Step back and ask yourself if you are truly ready to transition out of the CAF. In many situations, people think that because they secure a potential second career, or because they reach 25 years of service, they are ready to transition. This approach, however, means that you are considering your transition decision along only one or two domains of well-being.

A better approach would be to examine your transition decision following the six domains of well-being: Purpose, Finances, Health, Life Skills, Social Integration, Housing and Physical Environment.

To help you view your transition decision holistically, you can complete this self-reflection questionnaire called Decision to Transition (D2T) (see the graphic below). The intent of this questionnaire is to help you consider some key factors when making your decision to transition.

For each question posed, check the box closest to the statement that you most agree with. For example, in Question 1, you will be asked to consider these two statements: “My career prospects in the CAF are excellent and motivating” and “I am convinced I will have better and more exciting career prospects in the civilian workforce”. If you agree more with the first statement, you would check the box under “1”. If you agree more with the second statement, you would check the box under “3”. If you were unsure, or equally in agreement with both statements, you would check the box under “2”.

Description of figure

Decision to Transition (D2T) is a self-reflection questionnaire intended to help you consider some key factors when making the decision to transition.

For each question, you will be asked to check the box closest to the statement they most agree with. For example, in Question 1, you will be asked to consider these two statements: “My career prospects in the CAF are excellent and motivating” and “I am convinced I will have better and more exciting career prospects in the civilian workforce”. If you agree more with the first statement, you would check the box under “1”. If you agree more with the second statement, you would check the box under “3”. If you were unsure, or equally in agreement with both statements, you would check the box under “2”.

Domains of Well-Being Assessment Results (General)

Consider Staying	1	2	3	Consider Transition
My career prospects in the CAF are excellent and motivating.	-	-	-	I am convinced that I will have better and more exciting career prospects in the civilian workforce.
I have been very satisfied with my postings and career progression.	-	-	-	I need more control over career steps and locations and look forward to civilian employment.
Compensation, costs, and benefits in the military are good and I like the financial stability and security	-	-	-	I could be better off financially in the civilian workforce.
From a pension perspective, it makes sense for me to stay.	-	-	-	There are civilian options to compliment my pension, or equally attractive pension options.
For me, the military life is full and satisfying.	-	-	-	I need more flexibility and better work/ life balance that only seems possible in civilian life.
My family thrives on military life and is encouraging me to stay	-	-	-	My family wants civilian life and is encouraging me to leave.
I thrive on the sense of purpose, mission, and team in military life.	-	-	-	I believe I can find sense of purpose and causes that will motivate mein civilian life (work or community).
I respect and fit well into the CAF organization that I see today.	-	-	-	I believe I will be a better fit with a civilian employer/organization.

There are no right or wrong answers, and there is no formal score assigned. These questions are designed to get you thinking about whether transition is the right decision for you or conversely, if there might be other options inside the military that work for you. You may revisit your answers to the questionnaire in the future, as necessary.

Back to top

Your Transition Readiness Check

Determine Transition Readiness

Once you have considered your situation carefully, and you have decided that transition out of the military is right for you, the next step is to determine your transition readiness status. You need to examine where you stand with respect to the six domains of well-being: Purpose, Finances, Health, Life Skills, Social Integration, and Housing and Physical Environment.

The Road to Civilian Life (R2CL) Transition Checklist (see next page) is a self-assessment tool that helps transitioning CAF members and their families to consider whether they are ready to transition or whether they should seek additional assistance. The intent is to help you and your family think through six key intersecting areas of life as you prepare for your transition. Early planning leads to better well-being in life after service.

Take the time to carefully respond to each question. The checklist contains 12 questions about your readiness for all the main aspects of civilian life. Each pair of questions deals

with one of the six domains of well-being. The intent of this transition self-reflection tool is to ensure that no crucial information was missed on any of the domains of well-being as you prepare for your transition.

You or a family member or friend can use the checklist to help you think about whether you are ready for transition (green), whether you need to think about getting some assistance (yellow), or whether you should strongly consider getting some assistance (red) with one or more of the domains. For example, on Question 1, you are asked to consider “I know what steps to take to secure a good job”. If you feel that you do, then you would check under the green “yes” box; if you are not sure, then you would check under the yellow “to some extent” box; and, if you feel you do not, then you would check under the red “no” box.

There are no right or wrong answers, and there is no overall score. These questions are designed to help you look at your transition readiness in different areas of your life. Once you have completed your D2T and R2CL, you will work with a TA to put together a plan that suits your individual needs.

Description of the figure

The Road to Civilian Life (R2CL) Transition Checklist is a self-assessment tool that helps transitioning CAF members and their families to begin thinking about whether they should seek additional assistance. The checklist include aspects of employment/education/retirement, financial preparedness, physical and metal health, support from friends and family, housing and general adjustment to civilian life.

Think about life after the Canadian Armed Forces

Select the response that applies to you for each of the statements below:	Yes	To some extent	No
If applicable, I know what steps to take to: - Secure a good job.	-	-	-
- Enroll in an educational institution.	-	-	-
- Prepare for retirement.	-	-	-
I have what I need to find a satisfying job or other meaningful activity.	-	-	-
I am financially prepared for civilian life.	-	-	-
I will be able to make ends meet.	-	-	-
My physical and mental health will allow me to function well in my daily life after release	-	-	-
I know what steps to take to get access to the health care I will need after release.	-	-	-
I will get the support that I need from my family and friends after release.	-	-	-
I have hobbies and interests outside of the military.	-	-	-
I will have suitable housing arrangements after release.	-	-	-
I will be able to live in my preferred location.	-	-	-
I will adjust well to civilian life	-	-	-
If applicable, my family will adjust well to my transition to civilian life.	-	-	-
If you need help in any of these areas - Employment, Finances, Health care or Rehabilitation, Social Supports, Housing or Other areas of life Contact services that can help.	Should be good to go	Think about it	Consider seeking assistance

Domains of Well-being

Every CAF member is different and will experience the transition process in their own way One unifying experience is the major life change that results from the journey to life after service. The model of well-being adopted by CAF/VAC (see Figure 3 below) considers seven domains of well-being: Purpose, Finances, Health, Life Skills, Social Integration, Housing and Physical Environment, and Cultural and Social Environment. These domains are the key criteria (or planning factors) to consider when thinking about or planning for a successful transition.

Description of the figure

Well-Being Framework

• Finances
• Social Integration
• Life Skills
• Housing and Physical Environment
• Culture and Social Environment
• Health
• Purpose

Each of these seven domains of well-being are defined as the following:

1 . Purpose

It is widely agreed that suitable employment or other meaningful activity (such as continued education, volunteering, etc), and the resulting sense of purpose, are critical factors establishing one’s well-being. Most CAF members do not transition from long service to full retirement. Post-release civilian employment is critical to transition success, especially considering the average age of release from military service is 40 years or less. Post-release civilian employment is an option for CAF members of any age and has multiple advantages, including: income, health, sense of meaning, and purpose in life, and in establishing a civilian identity.

2 . Finances

Healthy personal finances is widely recognized as a key factor in well-being. Military members undergoing transition experience changes in sources of income and can have temporary or long-term reduction in income levels post-release. Sufficient finances are associated with a host of positive outcomes, including: independence, healthy lifestyle choices, access to health services, quality of housing, family stability, and avoidance of debt.

CAF members may face many challenges in this domain. Examples of some of the financial challenges associated with transition include finding steady and sufficient employment income, additional funds needed for relocation moves, housing, vehicles, family and childcare expenses, health care expenses, and costs of living in a new community.

Some will benefit from the support of financial planning services and self-skills to plan and manage finances. It is important to consider cost of living expenses such as health care, housing and leisure activities, especially if these were provided free of charge or subsidized on military bases or installations during service. Some CAF members will face financial emergencies during transition that can cause distress for them and their families.

The key to achieving financial success is to start building healthy financial habits early in your career. It is never too late to focus on your financial well-being.

3 . Health

Health has been, and will remain, a predominant domain of CAF members’ well-being. Health can be viewed as the physical, social, mental, and spiritual ability of an individual to function well. This includes the ability to adapt, based on one’s internal physical and mental resources, as opposed to external resources (such as having a job, money, good life skills, positive relationships, living in a secure and comfortable house , or living in a well-governed community where they are understood. The health domain includes measures of subjective well-being, such as life satisfaction and happiness, but also mental health, which can coexist with the presence ofdiagnosed mental or physical conditions. Disability and health-related restrictions that limit members from participating in daily life are to be considered within the health domain.

4 . Life Skills

The life skills domain pertains to skills, knowledge, and insights that prepare military members for transition and enables them to navigate the process of living in civilian life. This domain includes healthy lifestyles, education and job training.

Some life skills acquired by military members during service can serve them well during the transition: resilience training for dealing with stress, organized and disciplined management of personal clothing and equipment, establishing daily routines, and problem-solving skills.

Military members achieve greater success when equipped with the skills for effectively managing civilian life. These skills include planning for release, strong financial management, strategic house-hunting, effective job searching and successfully integrating into a civilian workplace environment. It is important that military members consider and prepare for the shift in personal identity when facing this major life transition.

5 . Social Integration

There is wide consensus that positive relationships and supportive social networks play key roles in well-being. Adapting to new social groups and social situations can sometimes be a challenge for transitioning members. Well-being in many of the domains is a function of the degree and effectiveness of a person’s social integration at home, at work, and in their community. CAF members’ social networks are built across an entire lifetime, from pre-service (likely, mostly civilians), to active duty (mostly service members), and finally post-service (mixture of civilians, service members, and Veterans).

Social networks may be informal (friends and family) or formal (peer support or agency staff). This is a challenge for many members as they transition, shifting from a primarily military social network to building a new civilian network. Following release, some members will continue to engage in military social networks. Maintaining these contacts are beneficial as members can network for new employment opportunities. This may assist with finding employment or integrating into a new community that includes civilians. The act of building new and civilian social networks plays an important role in finding and receiving needed supports, and in reshaping a military identity to a civilian one.

6 . Housing and Physical Environment

The domain of housing refers to both the physical structure of the home as well as the social and physical environment. The physical structure of the home includes such things as the state of its repair, accessibility, safe drinking water, and so on. The social environment pertains to safety, security and a sense of belonging. The environment surrounding a home considers proximity of services such as schools, recreation areas, health care, and shopping.

The physical environment is also an important determinant of health. Contaminants in our air, water, food, and soil can cause a variety of adverse health effects, including cancer, birth defects, respiratory illness, and gastrointestinal ailments. Moreover, factors related to housing, indoor air quality, and the design of communities and transportation systems can significantly influence your physical and psychological well-being.

7 . Cultural and Social Environment

The preceding six domains of well-being are the main focus of My Transition Guide as they are the most dominant as one considers and navigates their transition from service. However, the seventh domain is equally important, but in a different context. Culture and Social Environment focuses on how transitioning members and Veterans are perceived and accepted by civilian society. You may think how others perceive you is out of your control, but the opposite is in fact true. As CAF members and Veterans, we all have a continuous role to play in shaping the perceptions and knowledge of our civilian counterparts and private sector entities. Whether you know it or not, you will become an influencer through your actions and attitudes as you integrate into your new civilian life. This may be as simple as bringing your incredible skills and talent from military service and impressing your new employer and colleagues; or this can be more deliberate, for example, if you choose to become an active mentor or advocate for Veterans. Regardless of your path through transition and beyond, you can have a positive influence that can improve the landscape for Veterans and provide support to others across the country.

To contribute to becoming a positive influencer, here are some considerations as you transition and become a veteran in civilian society:

• Become a mentor to other transitioning members as they navigate their experience.
• Join a Veterans networking group to assist in connecting veterans and promoting awareness of veteran capabilities in the private sector.
• Find ways to educate your new employer and colleagues on the capabilities of Veterans.
• Advocate for Veterans talent within your new workplace.
• If your new employer permits, volunteer to lead a Veterans recruitment and/or mentorship program within your new workplace.
• Participate in Veterans-focused charitable events and other activities that showcase the value of veterans in society.
• Engage in a positive way on social media platforms to promote Veterans talent, ingenuity, and entrepreneurship.
• Join your relevant service branch/regimental association to stay connected and leverage the power of these organizations in civilian life.
• Consider joining national Veterans support organizations, such as the Legion and/or the Army, Navy, Air Force (ANAF) to connect with civilian influencers.
• Participate and help promote Remembrance Day activities in your community.

Back to top