The consequences of not complying with immigration rules can range from fines and detention to employer sanctions. Delays in properly mobilising a workforce for global projects can also prove costly for organisations.
This is why technology – allied with the capabilities of human expertise – can be transformational in terms of managing risks.
Different rules apply for every national entering a country to work and the rules further vary for a national depending on the activities they are carrying out in that country. The goalposts are constantly moving and it is imperative to have a verified digital identity from compliance, health, duty of care and tax perspectives.
With globalisation comes a greater emphasis on business travel being purposeful, offering a distinct return on investment. Travellers need – and demand - technology that makes their journey stress-free, personalised and streamlined. That’s where cutting-edge technology comes into play.
Benefits of Technology
The levels of connectivity in today’s world mean the world is far more accessible than ever before. Today’s technology available to businesses and their travellers not only ensure we can stay connected while we travel, but it also offers travellers the ability to book and track their journeys digitally.
According to the Global Business Travel Association’s (GBTA) Business Travel Index Outlook report, business travel spending will gain huge momentum, hitting $1.4 trillion this year and nearly $1.8 trillion by 2027 – reaching pre-pandemic levels.
In managing this increase in corporate travel, technology is king. Digital platforms offer booking, documentation storage, customization and ensures compliance at each destination for both the traveller and their employer.
A recent survey found that 80% of travellers view booking travel arrangements online as essential. Using available technology means it’s far more efficient to track logistical changes, filter information based on their needs at the booking stage and store data related to their journeys – particularly when they are multi-modal.
Artificial Intelligence
Apps play a significant role here. The ability to access information and data personalised to travel arrangements, instantly through smartphones or tablets, can greatly reduce stress and uncertainty.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) will become increasingly crucial to further this personalisation process. Real-time information, alerts about changes such as delays and recommendations of hotels and routes, will be of benefit to the traveller.
The next two years are likely to see AI take off in a big way in the travel sector. Businesses are now starting to financially invest in AI development. Generative AI focuses on creating original and new content, engaging with users in natural, human language. Advancements are being made which could enable travel management services in years to come.
Travellers – and the population in general – are growing increasingly intolerant of slow, ineffective, and outdated technology and so it’s crucial that travel companies stay ahead of the game.
Flexibility, personalisation, preference filters and the ability to book travel that is 100% tailored to their needs – and mobile-centric - are vital.
Nomadic's Solution
Nomadic has already shown that advancements like this are no flight of fancy... our technological solutions ensure compliance with global mobility obligations.
Augmented by specialist in-house resources and the legal expertise of Fragomen, the world’s leading provider of immigration services, Nomadic’s own digital platform helps businesses ensure their employees are travel ready. The cloud-based application delivers certainty that immigration and documentation criteria are being met.
It encapsulates an end-to-end traveller profile, from pre-trip compliance assessment and visa requirements through to live updates. Using the portal online or via their smartphone, users simply select their proposed destination to bring up all relevant documentation. The completed documents are then sent to the relevant embassy, global Nomadic hub or in-country partner for lodging.
The platform has been adopted by companies looking to harness the power of technology to keep things simple when it comes to immigration compliance.
Recently there has been a significant shift in travel and visa rules, and they’ll always be the subject of change. Businesses can be assured that technology is now helping to carry that burden of compliance.
Embracing that technology can help avoid unnecessary costs, complications and the risk of regulatory non-compliance, all of which are pivotal for forward-thinking businesses.
About the author
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Neil Thomson is Nomadic’s Director for the EMEA region. With over 30 years’ experience in the business travel market, Neil plays a key part in developing Nomadic’s technology for the global workforce mobility market. Connect with Neil on LinkedIn. |