Corporate travel is a necessary and, hopefully rewarding, part of many business activities. It is not without its challenges, though. Organizing flights and other logistics can be complex and time-consuming. Visas and entry requirements are some of the more challenging tasks. These can frequently change – especially these days. Assistance from a travel management company can greatly help.
Visa applications can be notoriously complex. The requirements vary significantly between countries and can change frequently. Rather than getting simpler, visa requirements have been generally becoming more complicated in recent years. Growing security concerns are largely to blame for this. The COVID-19 pandemic and closed borders have made it even worse.
There are also significant differences in application methods. Some countries require a straightforward online submission, others require extensive original or copied documentation, and others may insist on in-person interviews and the collection of biometric data. Support letters, references, and other follow-up requests are common with many countries.
Business complexities with visa
Getting a tourism visa for a personal vacation is often a straightforward task. Business and corporate visas can be much more complex, however. The type of visa needed will often require significant amounts of paperwork and proof – from both a personal and corporate point of view.
The nature of business makes visas more complicated too. Corporate travelers often need a visa with little notice, making the process that bit harder. Multiple visas for employees of different nationalities add to the complexity, too, with each potentially having different visa requirements.
Knowing the rules and requirements is only the first step in sorting visas for corporate travel. Obtaining and preparing all the required information, submitting it as required, and dealing with follow-up and further requests is time-consuming. Keeping on top of it is vital to avoid delays or even cancellation of the visa application.
Many companies choose to use a travel management company to assist with this. They can advise on up-to-date requirements and handle the application process on behalf of all visa applicants. Of course, some direct involvement, such as attending interviews, may be required.
Travelworx is a leading corporate travel service and can assist with all aspects of visas. Our experience began working on the complex requirements of pilots and flight crew, and we have expanded to offer services and assistance to corporates worldwide.
Other travel logistics – assistance with flights, hotels, transport, and more
As well as visas, travel management companies can also help with other travel logistics. Of course, many companies prefer to handle some of this themselves, but there are many advantages of using a travel service.
At Travelworx, we can help research and book flights with all major airlines. We can hold flights and fares while you decide – very useful with busy flights and last-minute plans. We can also arrange hotels and take care of extra requests to make stays more smooth.
Final Thoughts
Visas are a necessary but often complicated part of corporate travel arrangements. Keeping up to date with changing requirements and handling extensive application procedures are hassles that many companies could do without. Getting assistance with this leaves you free to concentrate on your real business.