Higher quality business travel policies will not restrict you from travelling to territories even where the FCDO is advising against all but essential travel. However, there are always likely to be restrictions in cover in respect of cancellation/curtailment and evacuation arising from political situations. If your staff will be travelling to disturbed areas you should always check with your broker before booking or travelling to assess the impact on cover.
Many other policies will not allow travel against FCDO advice, but as long as the advice wasn’t in place at the time that the trip was booked you should be able to claim for cancellation.
Some policies may completely exclude claims arising from acts of war. Others will give the insurer the option to exclude claims arising from acts of war if the insurer gives 7 days written notice. Again, it’s worth checking if any such notice has been given before your team travel.
Personal travel insurances are generally much more restrictive. Whilst we do not provide standalone personal travel insurance cover we will be happy to offer what guidance we can regarding you and your families other insurance arrangements.
As a general rule regarding overseas travel by staff, employers should also be aware of their obligations in respect of Employers Liability insurance. This cover will often include an extension for employees temporarily working abroad, but your broker will need to have been made aware of this activity and have checked the policy wording. If in doubt, ask the question to ensure you are appropriately covered.
Should you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us.