Embarking on international business travel requires meticulous planning, and for those affiliated with the University of California (UC), understanding travel risk management is paramount. While “Business Travel Insurance” is a key consideration, UC provides comprehensive resources and guidance to ensure your safety and well-being abroad. This guide outlines the essential steps and resources available to UC travelers to navigate international travel risks effectively.
Every UC campus offers varying degrees of international travel risk management assistance. To pinpoint the specific resources available to you, it’s crucial to connect with your campus’s designated Travel Risk Manager. They serve as your primary point of contact for personalized advice and support.
Travel registration stands as a cornerstone of UC’s international travel risk management framework. Registering your trip is not just a formality; it’s a vital safety measure. In the event of an unforeseen incident at your destination, this registration is how your campus Risk Management office will be alerted to your presence and potential need for assistance. Furthermore, travel registration automatically enrolls you in UC’s security alert system, powered by Crisis24, ensuring you receive timely updates and warnings about your travel location. Mandatory for all university-related foreign travel, regardless of the U.S. State Department Travel Advisory level or the trip’s purpose, registration is seamlessly integrated for travel booked via Concur/ConnexUC. For independently booked travel, manual registration is easily accomplished through UCAway.
For immediate access to travel security intelligence, UC provides the Crisis24 Horizon mobile app to all employees and students. This app is a powerful tool in your pocket, offering real-time alerts and assistance. Downloadable from both the iOS App Store and Google Play, setting up your account requires a unique Member ID for your campus. To obtain this ID, simply email your campus Travel Risk Manager from your UC email address.
Beyond UC resources, the U.S. State Department is an invaluable source of travel information. Their Country Information Pages offer comprehensive details about your destination. Additionally, enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) ensures you receive security messages and facilitates U.S. government assistance in emergencies, further enhancing your safety net while abroad.
It’s important to note that UC campuses operate with varying travel policies and protocols. These differences can be influenced by the security risk rating of your destination or the presence of U.S. sanctions. Consulting your Travel Risk Manager is crucial to clarify the specific policies relevant to your trip.
Travel to regions like Russia, Ukraine, or the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) necessitates extra vigilance. Review the UC Travel Advisories and engage with your campus Travel Risk Manager to fully understand and adhere to campus-specific protocols related to these UC systemwide advisories. They can also provide insights into travel policies for countries deemed to have a high-security risk, ensuring you are well-prepared and informed.
Key Takeaways for UC Business Travelers:
Prioritizing safety on international business trips involves leveraging the resources and systems UC has in place. While the concept of “business travel insurance” often comes to mind, UC’s comprehensive travel risk management goes beyond traditional insurance. By registering your travel, utilizing the Crisis24 app, and consulting with your campus Travel Risk Manager, you are taking proactive steps to mitigate risks and ensure a safer, more secure international business travel experience. These measures are your primary defense and support system when traveling internationally on behalf of the University of California.
