When borders tighten and rules shift overnight, business travelers are often left asking one question: “Will I get in?”
In today’s climate of geopolitical uncertainty, visa compliance isn’t just part of travel admin, it’s a potential risk for businesses. Countries are changing entry rules in the name of national security, border control, or economic goals. For travel managers, keeping pace with these changes can feel like chasing a moving target.
Add to that the digital divide: some countries embrace eVisas, others cling to manual consulate applications. Documentation varies wildly - invitation letters, business credentials, proof of purpose - creating a maze that’s costly and time-consuming to navigate.
This all means greater stress for travelers, risk for businesses and potential missed opportunities and lost revenues when meetings fall through.
Transatlantic travel: A case in point
Take the U.S. and Europe. Business travel is hampered by varying definitions of “business activities.” The U.S. B-1 visa allows meetings and negotiations but prohibits hands-on work. Meanwhile, the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) lets citizens of countries like the UK, EU, Japan, and Australia visit for up to 90 days without a visa, but only for tourism or limited business purposes. Travellers must apply for ESTA online, pay $21, and meet strict eligibility checks. Use ESTA incorrectly, and you risk being denied entry.
Across the Atlantic, the UK’s new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) and the EU’s ETIAS system hold their own complexities. Both aim to enhance border security for visa-free travellers, but neither replaces a visa for work or long stays. Costs are modest at £10–16 for ETA and €7 for ETIAS, but the rules are nuanced, and mistakes can be costly.
Counting the cost
Constantly changing visa rules, documentation requirements and processing times increase risk, overheads and administration. Travel managers face breached Duty of Care obligations, lost productivity from missed meetings, and compliance headaches.
The UK’s ETA regime alone is expected to generate £269 million annually, but at a forecasted cost of 100,000 fewer visitors and an estimated £734 million economic loss over five years.
Finding the right path
So, should visa compliance should be treated as strategic risk management? That means combining planning, education, technology and expert advice to ensure seamless, compliant corporate travel - and avoid costly surprises.
This is where a trusted Travel Management Company (TMC) becomes invaluable. At Clarity, we combine our years of experience, knowledge of the latest changes and partnership with CIBT visas to offer a deep expertise, meaning fewer surprises and faster solutions - even when deadlines are tight.
In a world where rules can change overnight, the need for a TMC with expertise isn’t optional, it’s essential. Partnering with the right TMC ensures your travellers stay compliant, your business stays productive, and your plans stay on track. Want to learn more? Speak to our sales team.
