global travel & expense policy

Global Expense Policies: What to Include & Best Practices

If you’re a CFO of a growing global company and don’t have a clear expense policy and unified expense management platform for your team, you may be dealing with these situations: 

• You have little visibility and controls on what your employees are using company funds for.
• ‍ Employees have no guidance on best practices for traveling or meeting potential customers, leading to confusion and ad-hoc approval burdens for budget owners and finance teams. ‍
• Chasing down employees for receipts, memos, and notes puts pressure on your finance team’s already tight schedule. ‍
• Too many country-specific systems and manual reimbursement processes in each country mean you lack real-time oversight of your budget and employee spending. ‍
• Financial management is not part of the culture , leading to a lack of alignment between company and employee goals.  ‍
• You’re considering hiring additional team members to help with the month-end close to keep up with deadlines. 

Trying to grow a global business while keeping company spend in check shouldn’t have to be complicated. That’s why we created Jeeves. 

In this article, we’ll share: 

• What is a global expense policy.
• How to create a global expense policy.
• How to automate your global expense policy.

What is a global expense policy?

A global expense policy is a set of rules defined by the finance or leadership team that outlines how employees can spend company money. This policy makes sure the whole team has clear expectations on what they can and can’t spend on. 

While expense policies can vary from company to company, they usually include two key elements: 

• A defined list of expense categories and approximate budgets
• A clear guide for employees on how to claim expenses 

How to create a global expense policy

1. define eligible expenses, budgets, and categories.

One of the first steps in creating a global expense policy is outlining which expenses your company will cover and grouping them into categories. 

Here is an example of how a global company might group their expense categories:

For each of these categories, we recommend outlining which expenses are covered and expectations for each. Take the example below for a “Travel” expense policy. The example shows details of the expense policy for “Flights.” It sets a list of clear expectations and expected budget (approximately $500 in economy class), approval processes (flights over $1,000 must receive written approval from VP-level or above, must cc the CEO and CFO], and pre-approved expenses like in-flight WiFi.

2. Set eligibility criteria and procedures

Another important step in creating your global expense policy is clearly outlining who is eligible to claim expenses. Does your expense policy apply to all employees? Does it vary by department, employment status, or job level? Be upfront and let your employees know who these covered expenses are applied to. 

Once you have eligibility criteria lined up, you’re ready to set up an efficient expense policy procedure. 

As you can see, Jeeves cuts down a typical 5-step process into 2 simple steps: spend and upload. Because employees can spend on their own Jeeves corporate card, you don’t have to chase them down for expense reports and receipts. Expense reports are now a thing of the past. (Plus, you get 1% cashback on all Jeeves card spend.)

3. Distribute and educate

Once you’ve clearly outlined your expense policy and procedures, now it’s time to distribute and educate your team about the new company expense policy. We find it best to publish this on a company wiki, work with the HR team to include it in new employee onboarding materials, and dedicate some time in a company-wide meeting to go over the policy together and address any questions people may have. 

4. Monitor and refine

Last but certainly not least, you’ll need to monitor employee spend to make sure they’re staying within policy and following the correct procedures. While you could do this manually, Jeeves offers a few helpful features that help automate this process.

How to automate your global expense policy with Jeeves

Corporate card spend controls .

When you sign up for Jeeves, you can issue free prepaid corporate cards to every member of your team - for free. Physical cards are shipped free worldwide, and you can create unlimited virtual cards in just a few clicks. Not only can Jeeves cards be used to make purchases in 210+ countries, but you also get 1% cashback on all card spend and free built-in spend controls. 

Here are the card spend controls available on Jeeves: 

• Set a monthly or lifetime card spending limit
• Deactivate cards instantly within the platform 
• Upload receipts within the platform 
• Upload transaction memos 
• Flag transactions for fraud 

Policies & Approvals

Submission Requirements

Jeeves also offers the ability to set Card Policies. This means you can require employees to upload a receipt and/or a note for any card transactions over a certain amount.

Receipt Capture & Mobile App

Jeeves makes it easy for employees to capture receipts while they’re on the go. If they’re not at their desks, they can access the Jeeves mobile app, take a picture of their receipt, and upload it to a transaction in seconds. The Jeeves mobile app is available to download for free on iOS and Android .

Automated Reminders

Once you have your card policies set up, employees will be automatically reminded via email if they are missing a receipt or note in any of their recent transactions. 

Looking for an employee-centric approach to spend management? Try Jeeves

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The complete guide to corporate travel policies

A guide to corporate travel policies, how to improve travel policy compliance with travelperk, what is a travel policy.

• Booking procedure and approved corporate travel company
• Allowable cost of booking (hotels, airfare, ground transportation)
• Special exceptions or rules for more expensive cities or routes
• Preferred company vendors
• Approval process for trips that exceed typical limitations
• Reimbursement process
• Permitted and not permitted expenses
• Travel debriefing process
• Travel insurance carrier
• Duty of care vendor or procedures

Why create a business travel policy?

Benefits for travelers.

• Flexibility and autonomy to book their own travel within guidelines
• Safety first! (Travelers’ whereabouts are tracked)
• Reduce confusion and hassle with travel booking

Benefits for the company

• Reduce spikes in travel spend and gain control
• Reduce friction and frustration over expenses and reimbursements
• Reduce total costs on business travel and optimize your company's budget
• Increase fairness and foster a positive company culture

What should be included in a corporate travel policy?

Start writing your own corporate travel policy with our comprehensive template

Lodging policy guidelines, travel and entertainment policy guidelines.

• Spending limits for meal expenses (either on a per meal or per day basis)
• Rules on what is allowed when employees are entertaining clients (meals, alcoholic beverages, etc)
• Clear instructions regarding situations where alcohol can and cannot be expensed , and a maximum amount that can be spent on alcohol per head
• List of unallowable personal expenses, such as laundry services, mini-bar charges, and personal phone call charges
• Instructions on information, original receipts, and other documentation required in order to process reimbursements

Air travel policy for employees guidelines

Guidelines for business class bookings, guidelines on using business frequent flyer miles for personal use, common challenges with travel policies.

• Travel policies are difficult to understand
• No one reads them or remembers them
• Travel policies are not enforced using technology
• Travel policies come across as overly bureaucratic

How to market your corporate travel policy

Make sure that your corporate travel policy is visible and accessible, create a comprehensive faq, encourage employee feedback, travel policy problems by the numbers.

• 64% of millennials understand their company’s travel policy but still book outside of it.
• 72% of businesses haven’t met their desired level of travel policy compliance.
• 50% or more of hotel bookings are outside of corporate policy.

How to bake your policy into the booking process

• How to write a travel policy
• Best practices for travel policies
• A travel policy template
• How to improve policy compliance
• How you can automate a travel policy

Achieving 100% travel policy compliance has never been so easy

What to consider when creating a business travel policy for startups, “bleisure” travel, younger employees may prefer to self-book travel, alternative lodging options.

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Benefits of Having a Corporate Travel Policy

Key elements of a corporate travel policy, creating a corporate travel policy, best practices for implementing a corporate travel policy, ensuring compliance with a corporate travel policy, sample corporate travel policy, what is a corporate travel policy, and why is it important, what should be included in a corporate travel policy, how can organizations create an effective corporate travel policy, the bottom line.

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How to Set a Corporate Travel Policy: Key Elements, Best Practices, and Compliance

A corporate travel policy is a set of guidelines and best practices that govern employee travel. Organizations that have corporate travel policies use them to ensure that all employees follow the proper protocols when booking business-related travel and logging expenses.

While travel policies are often standard for large corporations, smaller businesses can also benefit from instituting them.

Key Takeaways

• A corporate travel policy is essential for organizations to manage travel expenses, ensure compliance, and streamline processes.
• Key elements of a corporate travel policy include travel booking procedures, expense reimbursement guidelines, travel safety measures, and approval processes.
• Best practices for implementing a corporate travel policy include effective communication, employee training, and regular policy review and updates.

Having a corporate travel policy can yield a range of benefits, both for business owners and their employees.

From the perspective of business owners, a corporate travel policy can allow you to:

• Monitor employee travel expenses to ensure accuracy and detect possible instances of fraud
• Establish guidelines for which hotels, airlines, and other travel organizations that employees may book through
• Ensure that employees understand which travel expenses may be submitted for reimbursement
• Organize expense data accurately and quickly
• Remain compliant with Internal Revenue Service (IRS) tax rules and regulations regarding business travel
• Minimize waste and streamline your accounting systems

On the employee side, having a standard corporate travel policy in place can help employees avoid a scenario where they may be waiting weeks or months to be reimbursed for expenses they’ve paid out of pocket because the company can’t verify what they spent.

Employers should take care to understand which business travel expenses are deductible and which ones are not under the Internal Revenue Code (IRC) .

There’s no one-size-fits-all corporate travel policy template or blueprint that businesses can follow. That’s an advantage, however, as it allows you to create a travel policy that fits your business’s needs.

Generally speaking, a corporate travel policy should cover rules and guidelines for the following:

• Airline, hotel, and rental car reservations
• Other transportation expenses , such as rail travel or ride-sharing
• Employee spending, as it pertains to meals, entertainment, phone calls, and other necessary expenses
• Parking fees and toll passes
• Acceptance of gifts when meeting with clients, or expensing of gifts presented to clients
• Medical care and travel insurance
• Currency exchange fees and international banking
• Employee submissions of receipts for reimbursement
• Review, approval, and payment of submitted expenses
• Personal safety of employees
• Security of business equipment or documents

When in doubt, it’s better for a corporate travel policy to cover more ground rather than less. Making your organization’s travel policy as comprehensive as possible can help to avoid confusion with regard to which expenses are acceptable and when employees can expect to be reimbursed.

Creating a corporate travel policy is a multistep process. Breaking each step down can make it easier to manage and create a policy that’s tailored to your business’s needs.

Identify Your Objectives

First, consider what you need a corporate travel policy to do for you. Are you primarily interested in minimizing costs or preventing abuse? Do you want to ensure that employees are booking with approved organizations and taking steps to remain safe while they’re traveling? Considering your top three objectives can offer a good starting point for developing your corporate travel policy.

You can use those insights to draft a purpose statement outlining the policy’s intentions. This doesn’t need to be lengthy, but it should convey what the policy is designed to do.

Get Your Team Involved

A corporate travel policy is only as good as its ability to meet the needs of those who are expected to adhere to it. Asking some questions about your team and your business’s travel activities can help you pin down what your policy should cover.

For example, ask yourself the following:

• Do any employees require special accommodations for travel related to a health condition or disability?
• Are there any destinations that the business travels to regularly?
• Are there any preferred hotels, airlines, or rental car companies that the business likes to use?
• Is there a preferred process for booking trips or answering questions?
• Who will be responsible for approving bookings, answering employee questions, approving expenses, and submitting them for payment?
• How will employees pay for expenses they book?
• If employees are using corporate credit cards , what rules are they expected to follow?
• How will they submit those expenses for reimbursement, and what information will they need to provide?

Polling your employees can further inform your decision making. For example, an employee who travels frequently may know which hotels are better than others or which airlines offer the best rates. Your employees may appreciate being given a chance to share their insights and opinions on what the company’s travel policy should look like.

If you’re considering corporate credit cards for employees, look for one that allows you to set individual spending controls for each card.

Draft the Policy, and Review It Carefully

Once you’ve collected all the feedback you think you’ll need, you can get to work on fleshing out your corporate travel policy. Again, you want to be thorough in detailing the policies and procedures that you expect employees to follow.

After you’ve written out the first draft, go through your policy a second time. Is there anything that could be explained more clearly? Any areas that may cause confusion for employees? Anything you’ve left out entirely?

You may need to review your travel policy several times to make sure you’re covering all of the most important bases. Once you have the language down, you can review it one final time to check for spelling and grammar errors.

Share the Policy with Your Staff

The final step after creating a corporate travel policy is conveying it to everyone in the company who’s affected by it. If employees don’t know what’s in the policy, it’ll be very difficult for them to adhere to it.

Remember that you’ll need to repeat this step anytime you make changes to the policy. If you add something new or take something away, it’s your duty to convey that to your employees so they’re aware of the changes.

Once you’ve created a corporate travel policy, you’ll need to implement it. These tips can help with introducing your company’s travel policy and enforcing it.

• Ensure that employees know who they can direct questions to regarding business travel bookings, expense reporting, and reimbursement.
• Set a specific time frame for submitting expenses for reimbursement and processing payments to employees.
• Consider scheduling an employee meeting or workshop to walk through the details of the travel policy and answer any questions that might arise.
• Ensure that all new hires get a copy of the travel policy.
• Regularly review and update your travel policy if necessary.
• Conduct monthly reviews or audits of travel expenditures to check for errors and potentially detect fraud or abuse.

It’s also important to specify what consequences, if any, employees may face if they’re found to be noncompliant with the policy. That may include having travel privileges restricted or, in a worst-case scenario, dismissal if evidence of fraud is found.

Ensuring compliance with your company’s corporate travel policy is important from a cost perspective, as you don’t want to blow your travel budget. There are different tactics you can use to maintain compliance across all stakeholders .

• Update your policy regularly to reflect the company’s latest practices and guidelines.
• Simplify the policy if necessary to avoid confusion.
• Clearly communicate compliance expectations, as well as the consequences of noncompliance, to all employees.
• Ensure that the policy is detailed thoroughly during the onboarding process for new hires.
• Conduct regular reviews and audits of travel expenses to look for any signs of noncompliance.
• Consider using a business travel management tool or software to keep track of bookings and expense reporting.

You may also place safeguards on travel bookings to prevent employees from straying outside the boundaries of the policy. For example, if you use a corporate travel agency, you might direct the agency to automatically reject any attempted bookings that don’t involve a preferred travel partner.

Corporate travel policies are common across a variety of industries, from finance to retail to the government. Examples of organizations that maintain corporate travel policies include:

• JPMorgan Chase & Co.
• Columbia University
• U.S. Department of the Interior

All of these sample policies have similar characteristics, in that they outline the purpose of the policy, specify the rules that apply to booking accommodations, and offer detailed instructions to employees on how to submit expense reports for reimbursement. It may take some time to work out your travel policy, but reviewing examples like these can give you an idea of what to add.

If writing a detailed corporate travel policy yourself seems daunting, you may consider outsourcing this task to a consultant who’s experienced in compliance.

A corporate travel policy establishes the guidelines for booking travel expenses and submitting them for reimbursement. Travel policies can also extend to things like personal safety and security of business equipment or documents. Having a corporate travel policy is important for minimizing fraud and abuse, while ensuring more accurate record-keeping.

At a minimum, a corporate travel policy should outline approved practices for booking airfare, hotels, rental cars, and other necessary travel expenses. It should also detail the process for submitting expenses for reimbursement, including how expenses are approved and when employees can expect to be paid.

The first step in creating an effective corporate travel policy is understanding what your business needs. Forecasting your budget for business travel and setting proper limits on which expenses are acceptable are the next steps. Organizations must also ensure that all employees are aware of the corporate travel policy and understand how to adhere to it.

A corporate travel policy may be a necessity if your employees take regular business trips to meet with clients or prospective clients, attend professional conferences or seminars, or participate in career training. If you don’t yet have a policy in place, you may want to set that as a priority for your business. Having a clear policy to follow leaves little room for misunderstandings and mismanagement of travel privileges.

Internal Revenue Service. “ Understanding Business Travel Deductions .”

JPMorgan Chase & Co. “ JPMorgan Chase Bank N.A. Supplier Travel and Expense Policy .”

Best Buy Partner Portal. “ Vendor Travel and Expense Reimbursement Policy .”

Columbia University, University Policies. “ Travel Expense Policy .”

U.S. Department of the Interior. “ Travel .”

Starbucks. “ Non-Partner Travel and Business Expense Standard—U.S. and Canada .”

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Travel Expense Policy

It is the policy of [Company Name] to reimburse staff for reasonable and necessary expenses incurred during approved work-related travel.

Employees seeking reimbursement should incur the lowest reasonable travel expenses and exercise care to avoid impropriety or the appearance of impropriety. Reimbursement is allowed only when reimbursement has not been, and will not be, received from other sources. If a circumstance arises that is not specifically covered in this travel policy, then the most conservative course of action should be taken.

Business travel policies are aligned with company reimbursement rules. All business-related travel paid with [Company Name] funds must comply with company expenditure policies.

Authorization and responsibility

Staff travel must be authorized. Travelers should verify that planned travel is eligible for reimbursement before making travel arrangements. Within 30 days of completion of a trip, the traveler must submit a travel reimbursement form and supporting documentation to obtain reimbursement of expenses.

An individual may not approve his or her own travel or reimbursement. The travel reimbursement form must be signed by the executive director or the director of finance (for travel over $[amount]) or by the business manager (for travel under $[amount]).

Travel and reimbursement for members of the management team must be approved by the executive director or the director of finance and will be reviewed annually by the internal auditor.

Designated approval authorities are required to review expenditures and withhold reimbursement if there is reason to believe that the expenditures are inappropriate or extravagant.

Personal funds

Travelers should review reimbursement guidelines before spending personal funds for business travel to determine if such expenses are reimbursable. See Section II: Travel Expenses/Procedures for details. [Company Name] reserves the right to deny reimbursement of travel-related expenses for failure to comply with policies and procedures.

Travelers who use personal funds to facilitate travel arrangements will not be reimbursed until after the trip occurs and proper documentation is submitted.

Vacation in conjunction with business travel

In cases in which vacation time is added to a business trip, any cost variance in airfare, car rental or lodging must be clearly identified on the travel request form. [Company Name] will not prepay any personal expenses with the intention of being "repaid" at a later time, nor will any personal expenses be reimbursed.

Occasionally it may be necessary for travelers to request exceptions to this travel policy. Requests for exceptions to the policy must be made in writing and approved by the executive director or by the director of finance. Exceptions related to the director's or the director of finance's expenses must be submitted to the opposite person or to the treasurer of the board of trustees for approval. In most instances, the expected turnaround time for review and approval is five business days.

Travel Expenses/Procedures

General information Authorized business travel for staff that includes prepayments must be pre-approved.

Reimbursement of parking, mileage, gasoline in lieu of mileage and ferry or bus passes do not require requests if they are under $[amount]. Requests for reimbursement of expenses over $[amount] are to be submitted on a travel reimbursement form.

Permissible prepaid travel expenses Before the travel, [Company Name] may issue prepayments for airfare, rail transportation, rental vehicles, conference registration fees and cash advances. Applicable policies and methods of payments for these prepayments follow.

Airfare. Travelers are expected to obtain the lowest available airfare that reasonably meets business travel needs. Airfare may be prepaid by the business office.

Travelers are encouraged to book flights at least [amount of time] in advance to avoid premium airfare pricing.

Coach class or economy tickets must be purchased for domestic or international flights with flight time totaling less than five consecutive hours excluding layovers.

A less-than-first-class ticket (i.e., business class) may be purchased at [Company Name]'s discretion for domestic or international flights with flight time exceeding five consecutive hours excluding layovers.

Airfare may be purchased with a credit card or check through the business office with a request for payment form.

Rail transportation. [Company Name] will prepay rail transportation provided that the cost does not exceed the cost of the least expensive airfare.

Rental vehicles. [Company Name] will pay for approved use of a rental vehicle. See the section on reimbursements below in this section.

Conference registration fees. Conference registration fees can be prepaid with a credit card or check through the business office with a request for payment form. Business-related banquets or meals that are considered part of the conference can be paid with the registration fees; however, such meals must be deducted from the traveler's per diem allowance.

Travel advances. Cash advances are authorized for specific situations that might cause undue financial hardship for business travelers. These situations are limited to staff traveling on behalf of [Company Name]. A maximum of 80 percent of the total estimated cost can be advanced.

Expenses associated with the travel must be reconciled and substantiated within two weeks of the return date. The traveler must repay [Company Name] for any advances in excess of the approved reimbursable expenses. The department initiating the travel is responsible for notifying the business office to deposit any excess funds into the appropriate departmental account.

Travel advances are processed by submitting a completed request for payment form and travel request form to the business office. Reimbursement for any remaining expenses is processed on a travel reimbursement form approved by the designated approval authority.

Reimbursements Requests for reimbursements of travel-related expenses are submitted on a travel reimbursement form. This form must be accompanied by supporting documentation. If the requested reimbursement exceeds 20 percent of the total pre-trip estimate, the travel reimbursement form must be signed by the executive director or the director of finance.

These forms must be submitted to the business office within two weeks after the trip is completed. Travel reimbursement forms not submitted within this time frame require exception approval from the executive director or from the director of finance.

Reimbursement of travel expenses is based on documentation of reasonable and actual expenses supported by the original, itemized receipts where required. Reimbursements that may be paid by [Company Name] are shown below.

Airfare. If the airfare was not prepaid by the business office, an original itemized airline receipt, an e-ticket receipt/statement or an Internet receipt/statement is required. The receipt must show the method of payment and indicate that payment was made.

Rail transportation. If rail transportation was not prepaid by the business office, an original itemized receipt, original e-ticket receipt/statement or Internet receipt/statement is required. The receipt must show the method of payment and indicate that payment was made.

Automobile (personally owned—domestic travel). A valid driver's license issued within the United States and personal automobile insurance are required for expenses to be reimbursed. Drivers should be aware of the extent of coverage (if any) provided by his or her automobile insurance company for travel that is business or not personal in nature.

Reimbursement for use of a personal automobile is based on the [Company Name] mileage rate.

A staff travel reimbursement form is required for reimbursement of all vehicle-related expenses, including gasoline, wear and tear, and personal auto insurance. As of [date], the rate is [$] per mile. Travelers may opt to request reimbursement for actual gasoline expenses in lieu of the [Company Name] mileage rate. In these instances original, itemized receipts are required.

Automobile (rental—domestic travel). Reimbursement for a commercial rental vehicle as a primary mode of transportation is authorized only if the rental vehicle is more economical than any other type of public transportation, or if the destination is not otherwise accessible. Vehicle rental at a destination city is reimbursable. Original receipts are required.

[Company Name] authorizes reimbursement for the most economic vehicle available. In certain circumstances larger vehicles may be rented, with supervisory approval. The rental agreement must clearly show the date and the points of departure/arrival, as well as the total cost. Drivers must adhere to the rental requirements, and restrictions must be followed. Original receipts are required.

When vehicle rentals are necessary, [Company Name] encourages travelers to purchase collision damage waiver (CDW) and loss damage waiver (LDW) coverage. [Company Name] will reimburse the cost of CDW and LDW coverage; all other insurance reimbursements will be denied.

Drivers should be aware of the extent of coverage (if any) provided by his or her automobile insurance company for travel that is business or not personal in nature.

Parking fees, tolls and other incidental costs associated with the vehicle use are not covered by the rental agreement.

Travelers are strongly encouraged to fill the gas tank before returning the vehicle to the rental agency to avoid service fees and more expensive fuel rates.

Conference registration fees. If the conference fee was not prepaid, [Company Name] will reimburse these fees, including business-related banquets or meals that are part of the conference registration. Original receipts to support the payment are required. If the conference does not provide a receipt, then a cancelled check, credit card slip/statement or documentation that the amount was paid is required for reimbursement.

A prorated amount for the meals provided must be deducted from the traveler's per diem. See Meals (per diem) for more detail. Entertainment activities such as golf outings and sightseeing tours will not be reimbursed.

Registration fees paid directly by an individual will not be reimbursed until the conference is completed.

Lodging (commercial). The cost of overnight lodging (room rate and tax only) will be reimbursed to the traveler if the authorized travel is 45 miles or more from the traveler's home or primary worksite.

Exceptions to this restriction may be approved in writing by the executive director or by the director of finance.

[Company Name] will reimburse lodging expenses at reasonable, single occupancy or standard business room rates. When the hotel or motel is the conference or convention site, reimbursement will be limited to the conference rate.

Only single room rates are authorized for payment or reimbursement unless the second party is representing the agency in an authorized capacity. If the lodging receipt shows more than a single occupancy, the single room rate must be noted. If reimbursement for more than the single room rate is requested, the name of the second person must be included.

Meals (per diem). Per diem allowances are reimbursable for in-state overnight travel that is 45 miles or more from the traveler's home or primary worksite.

Per diem allowances are applicable for all out-of-state travel that is 45 miles or more from the traveler's home or primary worksite.

[Company Name] per diem rates are based on the U.S. General Services Administration Guidelines, which vary by city location. In addition to meals these rates include incidental expenses such as laundry, dry cleaning and service tips (e.g., housekeeping or porter tips). Incidental expenses, unless specifically cited in this policy, will not be reimbursed.

Per diem reimbursements are based on departure and return times over the entire 24-hour day and are prorated accordingly.

If a free meal is served on the plane, included in a conference registration fee, built in to the standard, single hotel room rate or replaced by a legitimate business meal, the per diem allowance for that meal may not be claimed.

Receipts are not required for per diem allowances. Per diem allowances are reimbursed after the trip is completed.

Business meals. Travelers are required to follow [Company Name] expenditure policies when requesting reimbursement for business meals. Original itemized receipts are required.

Business expenses. Business expenses, including faxes, photocopies, Internet charges, data ports and business telephone calls incurred while on travel status, can be reimbursed. Original itemized receipts are required.

Parking. Original receipts are required for parking fees (including airport parking) totaling $[amount] or more. The lodging bill can be used as a receipt when charges are included as part of the overnight stay.

Telephone calls. The costs of personal telephone calls are the responsibility of the individual.

Tolls. Original receipts are required for tolls totaling $[amount] or more.

Miscellaneous transportation. Original receipts are required for taxi, bus, subway, metro, ferry and other modes of transportation if costs are $[amount] or more for each occurrence.

Visa, passport fees and immunizations. If these items are required for international travel, their reimbursement is left to the discretion of your supervisor. If approved by the designated authority, original itemized receipts are required.

Nonreimbursable Travel Expenses The following items that may be associated with business travel will not be reimbursed by [Company Name]:

• Airline club memberships.
• Airline upgrades.
• Business class for domestic flights or first class for all flights.
• Child care, babysitting, house-sitting, or pet-sitting/kennel charges.
• Commuting between home and the primary work location.
• Costs incurred by traveler's failure to cancel travel or hotel reservations in a timely fashion.
• Evening or formal wear expenses.
• Haircuts and personal grooming.
• Laundry and dry cleaning.
• Passports, vaccinations and visas when not required as a specific and necessary condition of the travel assignment.
• Personal entertainment expenses, including in-flight movies, headsets, health club facilities, hotel pay-per-view movies, in-theater movies, social activities and related incidental costs.
• Travel accident insurance premiums or purchase of additional travel insurance.
• Other expenses not directly related to the business travel.

Travel for Non-Employees Additional costs for travel, lodging, meal or other travel expenses for spouses or other family members will not be reimbursed unless the individual has a bona fide company purpose for engaging in the travel or attending the event. Such travel is generally limited to senior management and should occur infrequently.

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Travel and Expenses Policy – Global

This policy provides information for anyone travelling internationally on College business who wishes to claim travel expenses from the RCOG.

This policy was approved by the Finance & General Purposes Committee on 18 November 2022.

For travel in the UK and Ireland, please see Travel and Expenses Policy – UK and Ireland .

1. Introduction

As a global organisation, the College recognises that those helping us to achieve our mission to improve the health of women and girls may need to travel internationally to deliver this valuable work. This policy details the guidelines that should be adhered to when travelling outside of the UK and Ireland on College business and reclaiming expenses from the RCOG.

2. Purpose and scope

This policy aims to:

• Ensure travel directly supports RCOG’s charitable objects and delivers sufficient value to the College to be justified
• Ensure the risks of travel are adequately assessed, mitigated and managed
• Contribute to financial and environmental sustainability of the College
• Provide clarity on expenses and the use of charitable funds

As travel and expenses funded by the College are subject to external scrutiny, this policy also aims to ensure that:

• Expenses comply with the regulatory requirements of both HMRC and Charity law
• Funds are used appropriately with an adequate sense of responsibility to the charitable objects
• Expenses are accounted for fully and not deemed taxable income
• Expenses would pass a common sense test of ‘reasonableness’
• Expenses only apply to the individual travelling on behalf of the College

This policy applies to anyone travelling internationally on College business, except those travelling on RCOG funded travel bursaries. A separate policy exists for travel and expenses within the UK and Ireland. Externally funded projects may have separate rules, which should be followed when appropriate. This policy does not apply to staff in relation to expenses incurred when travelling between home and the office en route to/from UK airports for international trips. Any exceptions to this policy must be approved by an Executive Director.

3. Role and responsibilities

Chief Executive has overall responsibility for safety, governance, and performance in relation to delivery of the RCOG strategic goals (including financial and environmental sustainability), and is accountable to the Board of Trustees.

Executive Director of Finance and Commercial is accountable for this policy and its regular review and update, for leading on the College’s carbon reduction targets, and for ensuring appropriate safety arrangements including travel insurance are in place.

Executive Directors are responsible for managing travel expenditure within the scope of this policy, for approving travel requests and risk assessments, ensuring the principles in this policy have been applied, and are usually the RCOG contact for travellers should serious incidents occur.

Director of Buildings and Guest Services supports with the management of health and safety matters, and is competent and suitably qualified to review and advise on travel risk assessments (supported by those in the Buildings Team with relevant training). The role is also responsible for managing and overseeing the correct application of the RCOG insurance policy.

RCOG Trip Owners are staff members who are experienced in managing global travel. They are responsible for the oversight of trips, and for ensuring this policy is adhered to and College processes for global travel are followed. This includes ensuring a risk assessment is completed and the travel is approved. Trip Owners will be supported by other RCOG staff with making travel arrangements and preparing for travel as appropriate.

Travellers are expected to adhere to these guidelines, submit a declaration to the College prior to travel, ensure they have valid documentation for travel, consider personal risk, take precautions where appropriate to ensure their own safety, and act with honesty and integrity when making expense claims.

4. Principles

The following principles should be applied in regards to global travel and expenses:

• Only travel when essential to do so, to deliver significant strategic value to RCOG - when all other means to achieve the objectives have been considered (e.g. meeting digitally) and the reasons to travel can be justified. There may be instances where travel is funded by another organisation, for example a conference organiser, this should always be explored when an invitation is received.

When travel is necessary:

• Safety is priority - assess and mitigate risk, travel and stay safe, know what to do in an emergency
• Take a balanced approach considering value, cost and sustainability:

Maximise value - wherever possible, explore all opportunities for member and stakeholder engagement activity, plan to achieve multiple objectives on the same trip

Keep costs to a minimum - wherever possible, welcome third party funding, book at least 4 weeks in advance, consider fewer individuals travelling, alternative travel times and ticket options, travelling on a different day and staying overnight if the overall cost is cheaper

Reduce the environmental impact - consider more environmentally friendly modes of travel e.g. rail over air for destinations where this is feasible

5. Sustainability

In line with the RCOG strategic goal “We will ensure our financial and environmental sustainability through delivery of all of our objectives and contribute to a significantly reduced carbon footprint”, the College has committed to carbon reduction targets. Performance against these targets should be reviewed regularly by Executive Directors and reported annually to the Finance & General Purposes Committee.

6. Planning and approval

Executive Directors should oversee levels of travel and regularly assess the need for travel and its impact and value. All trips should be planned as far in advance as possible, and a list of upcoming travel populated by Trip Owners should be reviewed by Executive Directors at least twice per year.

Authorisation to travel

All international travel requires approval prior to making bookings or incurring any expenses. A global travel request and a risk assessment must both be approved for authorisation to travel. Approval is subject to travellers submitting a declaration form in advance of travel (see section 7), and any changes in conditions being re-assessed prior to departure (see section 9). As the College has ultimate responsibility for the health and safety of travellers and is funding the trip, RCOG have the right to refuse authorisation to travel.

Approval is by an Executive Director, or more than one Executive Director if multiple College groups are travelling. The relevant Executive Director may escalate approval to all Executive Directors if appropriate. When the Executive Director is travelling, the CEO should approve. When the CEO is travelling, the Executive Director of Finance & Commercial should approve.

Global travel request form

The Trip Owner is responsible for completing the Global Travel Request Form, capturing the purpose and objectives of the trip, anticipated outcomes, an estimated breakdown of all costs, and confirming the COVID-19 rules make the trip feasible. Any expected hospitality funded by a third party should also be considered (see section 14). On review, the Executive Director must ensure the principles in this policy have been applied, and the travel is necessary and within budget.

Risk assessment

The Trip Owner should complete a risk assessment using the Travel Risk Assessment Template. Once complete, this should be submitted to the Buildings Team for review and then shared with the Executive Director for approval. The Buildings Team and/or Executive Director can recommend additional risks and mitigations prior to approval. If the Trip Owner is unclear on any area of risk this should be brought to the attention of the Executive Director. Once approved, the risk assessment should be shared with all those travelling. Travellers can choose not to travel if they do not agree with the risks and mitigations.

FCDO travel advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) is the primary source of country-specific travel information and advice that must be used when compiling the risk assessment, and should assist the College in making decisions about travelling abroad. Travel advice for the specific region within the country should be reviewed where appropriate, as advice may differ between regions.

The FCDO has three advice levels which will determine whether the College will consider travel to a destination:

• Advise against all travel - the College will not permit travel
• Advise against all but essential travel - the College will not permit travel
• See our travel advice before travelling - the College will consider travel if the level of risk associated is acceptable once assessed

When the College will consider travel, the risks advised by the FCDO must be captured on the risk assessment, these will include: COVID-19, safety and security, threat from terrorism, local laws and customs, health, and natural disasters.

Local advice

As the FCDO advice does not extend to individual streets or neighbourhoods, where possible advice should be sought from local partners such as in-country event organisers for any risks around the specific location and these should be included on the risk assessment.

Safeguarding

All travellers must comply with the RCOG Safeguarding Policy to protect and safeguard the welfare of Vulnerable Groups whilst travelling and working abroad. The Trip Owner should raise any safeguarding risks with the College’s Safeguarding Officer, who will carry out a separate risk assessment if necessary.

Travel insurance

RCOG has a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place for those travelling on College business.

Trip Owners should ensure appropriate documentation is provided to travellers prior to travel.

When travel is covered

Providing that no one is travelling contrary to the advice of the FCDO, travel to the destination should be covered, this includes multi-destination trips and local travel within countries abroad. Medical expenses are covered if a traveller is taken ill abroad and requires emergency treatment (including COVID-19), providing the traveller is fit to travel prior to departure and not travelling against medical advice. The insurer will also cover the cost of additional accommodation/flights should travellers have to isolate due to COVID-19 on a trip.

When travel is NOT covered

The insurance does not cover travel to destinations where the FCDO “advise against all travel” or “advise against all but essential travel”. It does not provide cover when travellers extend trips for personal reasons (see section 8), and does not cover extreme sports/activities.

When a trip starts outside of the UK (except Channel Islands, Isle of Mann and Republic of Ireland) and the UK is the destination, or the travel is between two destinations outside of the UK, these trips must be declared to the insurer as they are not the College’s usual pattern of travel. For those travelling on College funded travel bursaries, cover is not provided by the College’s insurer and individual insurance must be arranged. If in any doubt about cover, advice should be sought from the Director of Buildings and Guest Services.

Pre-travel helpline

The College has access to a pre-travel helpline (as a benefit of its insurance policy) which may be used for support with travel enquiries ranging from visa queries to vaccinations. This service is available 24/7 for assistance with planning trips. The Trip Owner will provide details to the Traveller.

Personal risk

In preparing the risk assessment, the Trip Owner should prompt the traveller to consider any personal risks prior to travel. It is the responsibility of the traveller to consider these risks including: checking what vaccinations and health precautions (such as anti-malarials) may personally be needed, and if personal medications are legal in the destination country. The FCDO advise seeking travel health advice from either the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) or from the FitForTravel website. The College strongly asks that travellers are up-to-date with vaccinations and have taken the necessary health precautions. The cost of receiving vaccinations and anti-malarials required for overseas travel can be reclaimed as an expense.

Fitness to travel

Travellers do not need to declare any pre-existing conditions to the College or the insurer. However travellers must be fit to travel and not be travelling against medical advice. If there is any doubt regarding fitness to travel, the traveller must seek medical advice and be certified as fit to travel by a medical professional.

Pregnant travellers

Pregnant travellers should refer to the RCOG’s published Air travel and pregnancy patient information leaflet . Pregnant travellers should have a risk assessment from the RCOG and they should refer to any agreed adjustments or provisions that may support any risks around travel.

Specific types of traveller

The FCDO advises that different risk levels may apply to particular types of travellers and some people may be at greater risk in some places, for example, people of a particular gender, ethnic background or sexuality. Travellers are responsible for assessing their own level of personal risk and should refer to the FCDO’s guidance for specific types of traveller when appropriate. Travellers should raise any concerns with the Trip Owner (and can do so in confidence) so further ways to mitigate risks can be considered.

Risk of terrorism

The FCDO advise that travellers take steps to reduce the risk from terrorism whilst abroad. In advance of the trip, travellers are recommended to read the FCDO advice on How to minimise your risk and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack.

Entry requirements

The Trip Owner is responsible for checking the entry requirements for the destination on the FCDO website and advising the traveller. When travel is to multiple destinations or there is a stopover, entry requirements for all destinations must be checked. As the FCDO only reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British Citizen’ passport from the UK, advice can only be provided in these circumstances. For those with different passports and/or not travelling from the UK, it is the traveller’s responsibility to check the entry requirements. If it is unclear how entry requirements apply, advice can be sought from the insurer’s pre-travel helpline (see above) or by contacting the country’s UK embassy, high commission or consulate.

COVID-19 rules

Each country will have its own COVID-19 rules and these may differ between regions within the same country. The FCDO advice will show if the country allows people to enter from the UK and what travellers need to do prior to travel or on arrival e.g. testing. The Trip Owner should confirm any actions required and this may involve asking the traveller to confirm their COVID vaccination status. Note the definition of “fully vaccinated” may differ between countries. Trip Owners should also check if there are any COVID restrictions within country e.g. for using transport or entering public places. Where significant actions are required (e.g. quarantine), the College may not permit travel to the destination.

COVID-19 testing

Where pre-departure COVID testing is required, it is the responsibility of the traveller to ensure this is arranged at the correct timescale prior to travel. Where there is the option to test in the UK, or on arrival at the destination, testing must take place in the UK. The College will reimburse the cost of pre-departure COVID tests.

Travellers are responsible for ensuring they have valid documentation for travel, including checking their passport expiry date meets validity requirements. Certain passports and previous immigration stamps or visas may cause entry to be refused to certain destinations. Travellers should check with relevant embassies if they think there may be an issue. The College will not pay for passport applications, renewals, or second passports.

Travellers should ensure they apply for the relevant visa (when necessary) well in advance of travel, as some visa applications can take up to eight weeks to process. All travellers part of the same trip who are travelling on a full “British Citizen” passport should travel on the same type of visa. It is the expectation that a business visa will usually be required. If there is any doubt as to what type of visa should be obtained, this should be escalated to the Executive Director. It is the traveller’s responsibility to make their own visa application, as an exception the College will provide administrative support with applications when a group is travelling. Where visas are available on arrival, a visa being issued is not guaranteed so this should be avoided and visas obtained in advance wherever possible. The College will reimburse visa application fees.

7. Traveller declaration

All travellers must complete a Traveller Declaration Form for every trip and return to the College prior to travel. This should include confirmation that they: are fit to travel, have assessed personal risk, have checked entry requirements and rules for prescription medications, have read the FCDO travel advice and agree with the risks and mitigations on the College’s risk assessment, will adhere to this policy and abide by the College’s code of conduct. Travellers must advise the College immediately of any changes after the form is submitted (see section 9). Travellers should also provide contact details of who should be contacted in case of an emergency whilst they are travelling on College business.

8. Booking travel and accommodation

Reasonable costs for travel and accommodation should be agreed by the Executive Director (as part of the Global Travel Request Form) when the Trip Owner is budgeting for the trip. Travellers will be advised in advance which elements the College will book and what the traveller can claim as expenses. All travel should be booked at least four weeks in advance, wherever possible. Those booking travel are expected to research different options (including using alternative airlines and providers) to ensure the best value for money is achieved.

Travel booking agency

All international flights and rail should be booked via the RCOG travel provider, Key Travel, with the exception of internal flights within countries such as India where UK travel agencies do not have access to low cost local airfares. Exceptions also apply when third parties are funding the travel (see further below).

Using a central travel provider gives the College access to charity and humanitarian fares which offer greater flexibility and conditions, a 24/7 helpline for logistical support, and allows the College to receive invoices directly and to track carbon data.

Travel arrangements can be provisionally held whilst waiting for the Executive Director to authorise travel, but should not be confirmed until approved.

Economy class should be considered for all air travel in the first instance, as the cost and sustainability impact of business class travel is high. There should be a clear justification for travelling premium economy or business class and this will only be considered in the following circumstances:

• For flight durations of 5 hours or more (including when the total duration of indirect flights is 5 hours or more, not including UK domestic flights)
• When travellers need to work immediately on arrival, making the working day (including travel) very long with limited opportunity to rest
• For overnight flights and/or to destinations with large time differences, where sleep will be lost due to travel

Where possible, travelling a day earlier either economy or premium economy class and staying an extra night in a hotel should be considered to reduce the cost and sustainability impact. Travellers can also choose to pay the additional cost to upgrade their class of travel if they wish.

Rail travel

Where rail travel is available to international destinations this should be considered to reduce the environmental impact. International rail travel should be booked as economy class.

Accommodation

The College will book safe and suitable accommodation for travellers. In many cases the accommodation will be predetermined e.g. when a conference or event is being held at a particular hotel. When accommodation needs to be sourced, security and safety standards must be considered, as well as the distance to/from the work venue, and the safety and cost of this daily travel.

Where possible, the College’s preference is that hotels are recommended or booked by local partners with local knowledge. Where this isn’t possible, those booking should check reviews, source information from previous travellers, and choose well-known chain hotels when available. The maximum rate for hotels should be agreed when planning the budget, based on the destination and purpose of the trip.

The College will cover single accommodation and breakfast charges. All other costs incurred, including double occupancy supplements must be settled by the traveller when checking out of the hotel. When a group is travelling, the College will make one group booking to secure the best rates.

If travellers wish to book their own accommodation, this must be agreed with RCOG in advance and the cost cannot exceed the cost of a College booking. Travellers are permitted to stay with relatives/friends who reside at the destination providing this is safe and suitable, however the College will not reimburse costs to stay in private accommodation.

Travel to UK airports and parking

The preferred method of travel to and from UK airports is by train or London Underground. Express airport trains are also permitted when booked as standard class. The UK & Ireland Travel & Expenses Policy should be referred to for guidance, including for mileage rates and parking if travel is by car.

Taxis to and from UK airports will be permitted in the following circumstances and with approval by an Executive Director:

• Where exceptionally heavy equipment is being carried
• When the time of the flight means no public transport is available or traveller safety is a concern (e.g. very early morning or late at night)
• Where the traveller has any mobility related issue that would prevent the individual from taking another form of transport

Airport transfers

Where possible, the College recommends that airport transfers at the destination are arranged directly by local partners with local knowledge. Alternatively, Trip Owners should ensure recommendations are taken from local partners or other trusted sources to plan a safe journey.

Excess baggage

The College will only reimburse excess baggage costs that result from carrying equipment on behalf of the RCOG. When this is required, it should be booked in advance as this is significantly cheaper than paying at the airport.

Flexible tickets/changes & cancellations

All travel arrangements should be booked on a flexible basis through the College’s travel booking agency, with fares that allow changes or cancellation if necessary for a small fee. Although this may be slightly more expensive than bookings with no flexibility, the need to change plans has become increasingly common with post-pandemic international travel. Any exceptions to booking flexible tickets must be approved by an Executive Director.

Loyalty schemes

Travellers are permitted to collect loyalty points with airlines and hotels when travelling on behalf of the College, however some airline fares offered via the travel provider do not qualify for points. It is not permitted for the traveller to choose specific airline and hotel providers in order to accumulate personal points when other providers are more cost effective, or to make flight bookings with airlines directly for this purpose.

Support from third parties

It is common for third parties such as local partner organisations or event organisers to fund or partly fund RCOG travel. RCOG welcome and value this support providing the conditions are deemed acceptable by an Executive Director. If a third party is funding travel, they should make the travel bookings for the traveller. Third parties may also offer support with other logistics, booking arrangements and itineraries. Providing that safe arrangements are put in place, this is both welcomed and recommended wherever possible, to take advantage of the third party’s local knowledge.

Extending trips for personal reasons

Travellers may choose to extend trips for personal reasons, providing there is no additional cost to the RCOG. If travelling on a different date to accommodate a personal trip is more expensive than travelling on the College trip dates, the traveller is responsible for paying the additional cost. All personal arrangements must be made independently of the College, including separate travel insurance as the College’s insurance does not cover personal trips. The RCOG will not take any liability for costs already incurred by travellers for personal trip extensions should the trip be cancelled or postponed.

Travelling with partners

The College will not fund or take any liability for partners (such as spouses) accompanying those who are travelling on RCOG business. It is not permitted for tickets to be purchased for a partner by the College and then reimbursed by the traveller, and travellers are responsible for paying any hotel double occupancy supplements. Partners travelling are not covered by the College’s insurance policy so personal travel insurance is recommended. Details of partners travelling should be supplied to the College for logistical purposes e.g. for group bookings.

9. Change in conditions prior to departure

Authorisation to travel is based on the best available information at the time, however changes in conditions can occur after approval. The FCDO will update travel advice as quickly as possible when new information becomes available. Trip Owners and travellers should both continue to monitor risks and any changes to COVID-19 rules, by signing up for FCDO country-specific email alerts and following the FCDO social media channels.

Updates to FCDO or local advice

If the FCDO advice level changes to “advise against all travel” or “advise against all but essential travel”, the trip will automatically be cancelled by the College. If additional risks are indicated by either the FCDO or local partners, these must be escalated by the Trip Owner to the Executive Director as soon as possible for consideration. The Executive Director may need to review and approve an updated risk assessment which should also be shared with travellers. RCOG have the right to postpone or cancel an approved trip at any point up until departure even if the traveller is willing to go. Travellers can also choose not to travel if they do not agree with the updated risks and mitigations.

Changes in personal circumstances

If there are any changes in the traveller’s personal circumstances after the traveller declaration has been submitted, the traveller must advise the Trip Owner as soon as possible. Travel will not be permitted if the traveller declaration is no longer valid.

10. Preparing for the trip

The Trip Owner should refer to a Travel Planning Checklist to ensure the trip is well planned. The Trip Owner should provide the traveller with booking confirmations, an itinerary, any specific briefings, travel insurance documentation, and a list of contact numbers for logistical support whilst away (including a senior RCOG contact in case of a serious incident). Travellers should take copies in case phones or devices are lost or stolen. It is the traveller’s responsibility to ensure they are carrying all the necessary documents required to enter the destination country, including proof of COVID-19 vaccination status or a negative test result if required. Travellers should check the guidance on how to use the NHS COVID Pass to prove vaccination status. Travellers are also recommended to consult the FCDO foreign travel checklist when preparing for travel.

Allianz Travel Oracle Website and Mobile App

The College’s travel insurer Allianz, provides access to the “Allianz Travel Oracle Website & Mobile App”. This provides current travel information, advice and real-time alerts on breaking news globally. Travellers will be given details of how to access this resource and must download the app (or consult the website if a smartphone isn’t used) in preparation for travel.

Funding travel expenses

Wherever possible, travel arrangements will be paid for by the College in advance or invoiced directly to the RCOG. When payments need to be made by the traveller, cards are the preferred method of payment and cash should be avoided where possible. Staff travelling should discuss any concerns with their line manager.

Access to RCOG IT systems

Travellers with RCOG laptops should ensure these are suitably packed for travel to prevent any damage whilst travelling. Access to the College software platforms is available via an internet connection whilst abroad. Users should check if access to the Microsoft portals is restricted at the destination by referring to Microsoft 365 and Office 365 International Availability prior to travel. The preferred internet connectivity whilst abroad is through a hotel/conference centre Wi-Fi, unencrypted public (open) Wi-Fi networks must not be used.

11. During the trip

Confirming arrival and staying in touch.

Travellers are expected to email a nominated senior member of RCOG staff to confirm their safe arrival at the destination. The nominated member of staff will be agreed when planning the trip. If confirmation is not received, the RCOG will message the traveller. When a group is travelling, one traveller can confirm the whole group has arrived. For longer trips, the traveller should stay in touch with the RCOG every few days.

Local partner briefing

For certain destinations it may be appropriate for travellers to receive local advice and information from a local partner on arrival. The College welcome and encourage briefings from local partners when relevant and available.

Personal safety

Travellers must take all reasonable precautions to ensure their safety whilst travelling on College business. This includes taking steps to mitigate risk as captured on the risk assessment, and following all FCDO and local advice. Travellers should be prepared to adjust plans accordingly if any advice changes during the trip.

Local laws and customs

As representatives of the College, travellers are expected to abide by the College’s code of conduct at all times, including when travelling to and from the destination, and whilst partaking in any social activity during the trip. Travellers are also required to observe the national laws and show respect for local customs and cultural practices in the countries in which they travel.

COVID-19 whilst abroad

If travellers test positive for COVID-19 or develop symptoms of COVID-19 whilst abroad, they should follow the COVID-19 advice for the destination and inform the RCOG. If medical treatment is required, travellers should contact the insurer’s emergency medical assistance service (see below).

Emergency assistance and serious incidents

Traveller safety is of paramount importance. If travellers require emergency medical treatment or assistance whilst abroad they should contact the insurer’s Emergency Medical and Security Assistance Service helpline (details will be provided prior to travel). The insurer will take control and manage the process to support the traveller. The traveller should also inform the RCOG at the earliest opportunity.

When serious incidents occur that require management by RCOG, the traveller should contact the senior RCOG contact (usually an Executive Director) as soon as possible, who will make decisions, delegate actions as appropriate, and be able to authorise any College funds required to support the traveller at risk. The CEO will be informed and an emergency meeting of Executive Directors will be convened if necessary.

12. After the trip

The College encourages the sharing of outcomes, experiences and learning with colleagues. On return, the Trip Owner should ensure the outcomes and evaluation of the trip are reported as agreed, demonstrating the objectives for the trip have been met. This may include a written report. Travellers may also be asked to complete a short online feedback form to assist the College with planning future international trips.

13. Other expense types and policy

Local travel within country.

Travellers should consider in advance how they will travel locally during their trip. Recommendations on safe reputable providers and local transport links should be sought from local partners or hotels. Reasonable local travel costs can be reclaimed from RCOG and travellers should respect the social custom for tipping transport providers. The use of hire cars for driving abroad is not permitted.

Meals & subsistence

RCOG will reimburse the cost of subsistence when:

• Breakfast is not included in the hotel bill
• Lunch and evening meals are not provided at the event or by a local host

The maximum rates set in the UK & Ireland Travel & Expenses Policy should be applied as default, however where costs are likely to be higher in certain venues and countries, the RCOG will advise the traveller in advance the maximum rates that can be claimed. Travellers should respect the social custom for tipping in food venues and service charges can be reimbursed when included on a restaurant bill.

Hospitality

It is recognised there will be times when entertaining will be required. Hospitality funded by the RCOG must demonstrate the value it adds to delivery of the College’s objectives. These expenses must be suitably moderate and agreed in advance by an Executive Director.

Other expenses

If travellers wish to claim for items not mentioned in this policy, guidance should be sought from the Trip Owner in advance of the expense being incurred.

14. Declaration of gifts and hospitality

When travelling overseas, it is recognised that gifts and hospitality may be received from local hosts.

In accordance with the RCOG’s Anti-Bribery and Corruption Policy, gifts and hospitality over a certain value must be declared and registered on the RCOG Gift Register. When this is known in advance this can be considered as planned and recorded on the register prior to travel. Anything unplanned and received by the traveller whilst away must be declared to the RCOG’s Director of Corporate Governance by the traveller on return.

15. Claiming expenses

Expenses form.

Expenses should be claimed using the College's Expense Claim Form and submitted to the relevant RCOG contact for processing. Wherever possible, expenses should be submitted via email rather than by post.

Itemised VAT receipts for expenditure must be attached to the form. In exceptional circumstances, where a receipt cannot be obtained, a written explanation must be provided and approved by the RCOG Budget Holder if less than £200, or by an Executive Director if more than £200. For clarity, VAT cannot be reclaimed on credit card receipts, only on receipts quoting suppliers’ VAT number.

In relation to hotel accommodation, the receipt must be either in the name of RCOG or the traveller’s name. Receipts in the name of other individuals/organisations cannot be reimbursed.

The College is unable to pay round sum amounts, unsupported by actual expenditure receipts, as this falls outside of the HMRC dispensation/rules.

Expenses incurred in foreign currencies

For card payments in foreign currencies, the card provider will set the exchange rate and this will show the correct amount to be claimed in sterling. For unavoidable cash payments, the amount to be claimed should either be calculated using the rate shown on the receipt when the currency was purchased (to avoid any gain or loss by the claimant), or if this does not exist the daily spot exchange rate recorded by Bank of England on the date of the transaction should be used.

Authorisation

All expense claims require authorisation prior to being passed to the Finance department for payment. Table 1 confirms who should authorise expenses. No individual can authorise their own expenses.

Table 1: Authorisation of Expenses

Expense claims may be rejected if this policy have not been followed without good reason. All travel should be booked at least four weeks in advance, wherever possible.

Payment of expenses

Expenses will be paid via bank transfer direct to the individual's bank account. The College will not reimburse expenses via any other means. The College aims to reimburse expenses within 30 days of receipt of a claim form.

Deadline to submit claims

All expense claims must be submitted within three months of the date they were incurred. Expenses submitted after this date will require approval from an Executive Director and may not be reimbursed. To assist with the College’s year-end accounting process, it is requested that expenses incurred in the last quarter of the College’s financial year (Apr-Jun) be submitted by the end of July.

RCOG credit card holders

For those with RCOG credit cards, expenditure will be authorised in accordance with this policy and the College’s credit card policy.

16. Handing personal data

The College may need to handle the personal data of travellers, to make bookings and travel arrangements on their behalf, make contact before, during or after the trip regarding logistics or College business, and to access the traveller’s emergency contact details should a serious incident occur. The College will do so in accordance with its Data Protection Policy . Travellers should refer to the RCOG’s Privacy Policy for further information on how the RCOG will use, store and delete their data.

17. Supporting documents

The following documents support the implementation of this policy and are available on the Travel & Hotels page on the staff intranet (or from the Trip Owner when required by non-RCOG staff). These will be reviewed and updated when necessary with approval by Executive Directors.

• Global Travel Request Form
• Travel Risk Assessment Template
• Traveller Declaration Form
• Expenses Claim Form
• Travel Planning Checklist

18. Useful links

FCDO website links and recommended pages:

• Travel advice
• Country-specific travel advice
• Travel abroad from England during coronavirus (COVID-19)
• National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC)
• FitForTravel website
• Guidance for specific types of traveller
• Reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad
• Foreign travel checklist
• How to use the NHS COVID Pass to prove vaccination status

• Types of Travel Insurance
• Generali Global Assistance Cost

Compare Generali Travel Insurance

• Why You Should Trust Us

Generali Global Assistance Travel Insurance Review 2024

Affiliate links for the products on this page are from partners that compensate us (see our advertiser disclosure with our list of partners for more details). However, our opinions are our own. See how we rate insurance products to write unbiased product reviews.

Generali Global Assistance is a well-established name within the travel insurance industry. Ideally, this translates to a travel insurance company with first-class service and coverage. The question for many consumers is simple: Does Generali live up to customers' expectations?

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Offers 3 plans with diverse coverage including sporting equipment and medical and dental
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Buyers can get up to $1 million in emergency assistance coverage with the premium plan
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Affordable premiums
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. CFAR coverage is expensive relative to standard policies
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. CFAR only covers up to 60% of non-refundable costs
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Multiple reviews indicate claims team didn’t start processing claims until policyholders called more than 30 days after filing

Introduction to Generali Global Assistance Travel Insurance

Generali Global Assistance is a reputable travel insurance provider offering multiple tiers of travel insurance coverage at reasonable rates. It offers the standard coverage for trip cancellations, emergency medical expenses, and evacuations. However, Generali falls short of the best travel insurance companies . 

While Generali's coverage isn't necessarily bad by any means, it fails to distinguish itself in any way. Its plans are on the cheaper side, but aren't the cheapest. Its offers all the key coverages, but limits aren't exceptionally high. Even its additions are middling, such as its cancel for any reason coverage, which reimburses you for 60% of your nonrefundable costs when most of the best CFAR travel insurance offers 75% coverage.

It's also worth mentioning that Generali is notably strict on its pre-existing condition coverage. Pre-existing condition waivers are only offered with the most expensive Premium plan, and travelers must purchase the plan within 24 hours of their final trip deposit. 

Coverage Options Available With Generali

Generali offers three tiers of travel insurance coverage: Premium, Preferred, and Standard. All three travel insurance policies cover baggage delay and loss, travel delay, interruption, cancellation, and missed connection reimbursement benefits.

Here are some of the highlights for each plan to help you better understand what coverage you may need:

The Standard Plan offers the lowest coverage with more budget-friendly premiums. It offers up to 125% reimbursement for trip interruption and up to $1,000 in travel delay reimbursement. Policyholders are limited to $250,000 per person for emergency assistance or transportation. If your baggage is lost, you'd have $1,000 to replace toiletries, clothing, and other belongings.

With the Preferred plan, you can expect 150% reimbursement for inevitable trip interruptions. It also offers travelers up to $1,000 per person for travel delay reimbursement. In addition, the emergency assistance or transportation coverage drops from $1 million to $500,000 per person, and travelers can enjoy up to $1,500 per person if baggage is lost.

Generali's Premium plan offers generous coverage for various scenarios. For example, you'll enjoy up to 175% reimbursement of your trip cost if your travels are interrupted for reasons beyond your control. Generali's Premium plan also includes up to $1,000 per person in travel delay reimbursement and up to $1 million per covered individual for emergency assistance or transportation. Finally, it has up to $2,000 per person in replacement expenses (i.e., toiletries, clothing, and other necessities while you wait for your delayed bag) if your baggage is lost.

You can compare Generali's three plans below.

Additional Coverage Options

Generali offers two add-on services alongside your base travel insurance plan:

Trip cancellation for any reason (CFAR)

Cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage reimburses you for nonrefundable expenses associated with canceling travel you've already paid for. Generali's Premium plan is eligible for CFAR coverage which pays you back for 60% of the total nonrefundable cost of your travel.

You must purchase CFAR coverage on your Premium plan within 24 hours of your initial deposit. However, eligible customers can take advantage of its full benefits, as the name suggests, for any reason. Medical problems, family emergencies, work scheduling issues, or just changing your mind are a few of the reasons Generali might pay a CFAR claim.

Preferred and Standard plans are not eligible for CFAR upgrades. New York residents are also not eligible for CFAR coverage. Generali's website estimates buyers will pay an additional 50% in travel insurance premiums for this rider while the max reimbursement is only 60% of the "penalty amount" (i.e., nonrefundable costs).

Rental car damage protection

Travelers can also purchase rental car coverage alongside their travel insurance policy. Premium plan customers already have up to $25,000 in rental car protection in their policy benefits. Preferred and Standard plan holders can purchase the same coverage amount.

Texas residents are not eligible for rental car coverage. If you're unsure about this rider, we recommend checking the limits of your auto insurance . Generally, U.S.-based auto insurance extends to rental cars. But you may want to supplement your coverage depending on what you already have.

Generali Global Assistance Travel Insurance Cost

The premium you pay will depend on various factors, including the age of the travelers, destination, and total trip costs. The  average cost of travel insurance  is 4% to 8% of your travel costs.

After inputting some personal information, such as your age and state of residence, along with your trip details, like travel dates, destination, and trip costs, you'll get an instant quote for the plans available for your trip. And from there, it's easy to compare each option based on your coverage needs and budget.

Now let's look at a few examples to estimate Generali's coverage costs.

As of 2024, a 23-year-old from Illinois taking a week-long, $3,000 budget trip to Italy would have the following Generali travel insurance quotes:

• Generali Standard: $82.50
• Generali Preferred: $95.70
• Generali Premium: $113.47

Premiums for Generali plans are between 2.75% and 3.8% of the trip's cost, well below the average cost of travel insurance. It's also relatively cheap compared to many of its competitors

Generali provides the following quotes for a 30-year-old traveler from California heading to Japan for two weeks on a $4,000 trip:

• Generali Standard: $108.75
• Generali Preferred: $126.15
• Generali Premium: $145

Once again, premiums for Generali plans are between 2.7% and 3.6%, below the average cost for travel insurance.

A 65-year-old couple looking to escape New York for Mexico for two weeks with a trip cost of $6,000 would have the following Generali quotes:

• Generali Standard: $271.14
• Generali Preferred: $304.68
• Generali Premium: $459.02

Premiums for Generali plans are between 4.5% and 7.7%, which is roughly in line with the average cost for travel insurance. This is to be expected, as travel insurance is often more expensive for older travelers.

How to Purchase and Manage a Generali Policy

To buy a Generali travel insurance policy, you'll need to obtain a quote on its website. You'll need to enter your intended destination, travel duration, number of travelers, state of residence, age of traveler(s), and total cost of your trip. 

You'll get quotes for all three Generali plans with general overviews of the policy benefits. You'll also find a detailed coverage description when you click "View Plan Documents." We highly encourage you to read through the terms to fully understand your policy. You can call 888-210-2134 for Generali's customer service line when purchasing a policy.

How to File a Claim with Generali Travel Insurance

To file a claim with Generali's travel insurance division, start at the eClaims portal .

You can also call its claims department at 800-541-3522 for assistance. Generali promises all insurance claim calls will be returned within one business day, and most calls are returned on the same day they are received. Many people reported quick claims processing and reimbursement when we reviewed recent customer feedback.

However, several reviews described waiting over 30 days only to discover Generali had yet to review their claims submission. As such, if you are still waiting to receive a response indicating Generali is working on your claim within a few days, we recommend checking in with customer service.

You'll need to provide supporting documentation for your claim, such as proof of travel delay from the airline or relevant claim checks for lost baggage. Your eClaims portal should give you the necessary details and update you on the ongoing status of your claim. Email the claims team for questions at [email protected] or use the eClaims chatbot for automated assistance.

Generali Customer Service and Claims Experience

Generali's reviews vary wildly depending on the site you check. On its Better Business Bureau page, Generali scores an average of 1.11 stars across 315 reviews. On Trustpilot, it scores an average of 3.5 stars across 419 reviews. Lastly, it has an average of 4.33 stars on SquareMouth across nearly 4,500 reviews. 

Many five-star reviews mention how easy it was to purchase a Generali plan and how that plan gave them peace of mind while traveling even if they never had to file a claim. However, most of the mixed reviews come from people who filed claims, reporting long wait times, uncommunicative claims agents, and claim rejections with no explanation. 

That said, Generali's customer service team is generally very responsive, particularly on its BBB and Trustpilot pages. Reviews on these pages generally get a response within a week. 

Learn more about how Generali Travel Insurance compares to popular travel insurance companies.

Generali Global Assistance Travel Insurance vs. Nationwide Travel Insurance

Nationwide Travel Insurance is part of an extensive network of insurance products. Unlike Generali, you'll recognize any Nationwide Travel Insurance product as it's listed on the same website. In addition, Nationwide Travel Insurance offers bundling discounts, depending on what you're buying. It also sells short-term and long-term insurance plans (like auto and home).

Nationwide has been in business since 1925. Its travel insurance wing offers plans and coverage options to suit diverse travelers' needs. Customer review sites like Trustpilot had reviews complaining about long wait times and claims overlooked with Generali. Nationwide's reviews described long processing times, poor communication, and other claims-based issues.

If you're solely concerned about coverage and rates, Generali is upfront about the fact that its CFAR coverage is exceptionally costly. The company's website seems to imply the CFAR rider's cost is bloated compared to its value. But its basic plans have a few more perks compared to Nationwide Travel Insurance's single-trip plans. And while Nationwide Travel Insurance offers cruise plans and multi-trip options, Generali does not match at the time of this review.

Read our Nationwide Travel Insurance review here.

Generali Global Assistance Travel Insurance vs. Allianz Travel Insurance

Allianz Travel Insurance is another reputable insurance company that has been in business since 1890. Allianz Travel Insurance is one of the biggest names in travel insurance, serving more than 55 million travelers across dozens of countries.

Both Generali and Allianz Travel Insurance offer comprehensive single-trip coverage options for travelers. Generali's website makes reviewing and comparing its three travel insurance plans easy. However, Allianz Travel Insurance offers annual (multi-trip) policies while Generali doesn't. Both companies list rental car protections for some travelers.

Allianz customers leaving reviews online indicate the claims process may be confusing and drawn out. Most importantly, a few reviews cautioned future travelers to come in with complete documentation. In our experience, offering more paperwork rather than less with Allianz Travel Insurance is better.

Read our Allianz Travel Insurance review here.

Generali Global Assistance Travel Insurance vs. InsureMyTrip

InsureMyTrip.com is an insurance broker that uses your travel details to collect insurance company bids on your behalf. You can enter your information and get multiple quotes back. As a result, Generali may be one of the insurance providers providing you with a quote through InsureMyTrip. Rates may not match what a provider would offer on its website, though. Broker websites like InsureMyTrip often charge a premium to account for third-party fees or offer discounts as a partner company knows it's competing for customers no matter what. Whatever the case, InsureMyTrip makes it easier to shop for travel insurance. However, it would not process any claims. So for some consumers, it may be more complicated to determine where to go to make a claim against their policies or get help if something goes wrong.

Read our InsureMyTrip Travel Insurance review here.

Why You Should Trust Us: How We Reviewed Generali Global Assistance Travel Insurance

When evaluating travel insurance companies, we consider various factors, including the number of plans available, the coverage, feedback from customer reviews, average premiums, customer support, ease of filing claims, and reimbursement times. No single factor can truly determine how travel insurance companies stack up.

These factors together allow us to develop ratings for each travel insurance company. Then we break down the pros and cons, pointing out potential issues. We also aim to bring to light solutions other buyers have already found should you choose to work with the travel insurance provider being reviewed.

You can read more about how Business Insider rates insurance products here.

Generali Global Assistance Travel Insurance FAQs

Generali's Premium plan covers pre-existing conditions if you buy the policy within 24 hours of your final trip deposit. Its Preferred and Standard plans do not offer pre-existing condition coverage.

Generali has additional coverage options for rental car insurance for its Preferred plan and CFAR coverage for its Premium plan. 

In case of emergency assistance needs while covered by Generali, policyholders should contact Generali's 24/7 hotline for immediate support. You can reach the hotline at 877-243-4135 in the U.S. and 240-330-1529 worldwide.

Generali's travel insurance coverage may include limitations or exclusions based on travel destinations, especially in relation to governmental travel advisories or high-risk areas. Policyholders should review Generali's policy documentation or contact them directly for clarification on any geographic restrictions.

Generali states it will review claims within 30 days, but customer reviews have described longer wait times.

Editorial Note: Any opinions, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed in this article are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any card issuer. Read our editorial standards .

Please note: While the offers mentioned above are accurate at the time of publication, they're subject to change at any time and may have changed, or may no longer be available.

**Enrollment required.

• Main content

What is Global Entry and why do you want it? Here’s how to get it nearly free

Fortune Recommends™ has partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card products. Fortune Recommends™ and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers.

Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more.   

Global Entry is a government-run membership program that allows preapproved, low-risk travelers to use expedited security lines when returning to the United States from travel abroad. It’s one of several “trusted traveler programs” along with TSA PreCheck and NEXUS. Here’s what you need to know about how Global Entry works to help you decide if it’s worth it for you.

What does Global Entry do?

In the United States, Global Entry clearance speeds up the time it takes to get through the customs line when arriving from an international location. Instead of waiting in the typical long lines formed when multiple international flights arrive at the airport or a ship full of passengers disembarks at the port, those with Global Entry membership can check in at a designated kiosk or via the Global Entry mobile app, bypassing the need to wait in a queue.

How to get Global Entry

Global Entry is a Trusted Traveler Program run by the Department of Homeland Security’s U.S. Customs and Border Protection Department. Membership in this program is limited to U.S. citizens, U.S. legal permanent residents, and Mexican nationals. There are also some countries that have arrangements with the U.S. and the Global Entry program to help expedite entry and exit with those countries. You can find a list of currently participating partner nations here .

For those who fit the residency criteria, there’s a few steps to apply for a Global Entry card:

• Go to the Trusted Traveler website and create an account.
• Fill out the application. You’ll be asked a number of questions including your legal name, Social Security number, address and other identifying information.
• Pay a non-refundable application fee of $100. You can pay with a credit card or by electronic bank transfer. Some travel credit cards offer an application fee reimbursement if you charge it to the card. More on that below.
• Wait for an email from the Trusted Traveler system indicating your status has changed. This might typically take around two to three weeks, although some online users have reported faster results (and some, slower results). Once you receive notice that your status has changed, you can log into your account to see if you’ve received conditional approval or been denied. If you were denied, there will be a note indicating why. If you were conditionally approved, the next step is to set up an interview at an Enrollment Center. The Trusted Traveler site indicates this could take anywhere from four to six months. A quicker option if it aligns with your travel plans is the Enrollment on Arrival option. Those entering the U.S. from an international location with conditional approval to an airport with a designated U.S. Customs and Border Control Preclearance location can complete their interview at the airport by letting the agent know when it’s your turn to clear customs. Currently there are over 50 U.S. airports with Preclearance locations. However, you can only participate in Enrollment on Arrival if you’re returning from an international trip. Domestic flights or walk-ins are not eligible for this option. Also note that you’ll need your passport and an accepted document showing evidence of residency (such as your driver’s license, mortgage or rent statement, or utility bill). 
• Once you’ve completed your interview, it should take approximately two to four weeks to receive your physical card.

Do I need to carry my Global Entry card when traveling?

No, if you are flying, you do not need to carry your physical Global Entry card to use Global Entry in the airport. However, you do need to present your card if seeking expedited entry at SENTRI and NEXUS lanes coming into the U.S.

What’s the difference between Global Entry and TSA PreCheck?

Global Entry allows expedited entry into the U.S. from international locations and also includes TSA PreCheck membership—but is run by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection. TSA PreCheck expedites the security line process when departing from U.S. airports and is run by the Transportation Security Administration. Here’s a comparison of the two programs:

What is CLEAR?

CLEAR is a biometric technology company that is not a government-operated trusted traveler program but can provide expedited identity screening. CLEAR® Plus is the CLEAR program found at 55+ U.S. airports that allows its members to go through the security checkpoint process more quickly in a dedicated lane. TSA PreCheck is in more than 200 airports, although some airports will have both TSA PreCheck lanes and CLEAR lanes. Which one is faster will depend on various factors including how busy the airport is and how many people are in line for each.

Certain credit cards reimburse you for a CLEAR Plus membership, such as the American Express® Green Card —for an annual fee of $150, the Amex Green provides a yearly credit of up to $189 credit toward cost of CLEAR® Plus per calendar year. 

There’s also a free CLEAR membership option you can sign up for that can get you through security and into your seat more quickly at certain stadiums and arenas. 

All information about the American Express® Green Card has been collected independently by Fortune Recommends™ .

Are there other Trusted Traveler programs?

Yes, in addition to TSA PreCheck and Global Entry, other trusted traveler programs include:

• NEXUS: This program allows expedited air, vehicle and pedestrian entry into the U.S. and Canada, expedited marine entrance into the U.S. from Canada, and provides access to TSA PreCheck expedited security lanes at airports within the U.S. and U.S territories for U.S. citizens, U.S. lawful permanent residents, and Canadian citizens. There is a $50 application fee and NEXUS is good for five years once approved.
• SENTRI: This program allows expedited air, vehicle and pedestrian entry into the U.S. from Canada and Mexico for U.S. citizens, U.S. lawful permanent residents, and all foreign nationals. There is a $122.25 fee and SENTRI is good for five years once approved. SENTRI offers access to TSA PreCheck expedited security lanes at airports within the U.S. and U.S territories for U.S. citizens and U.S. lawful permanent residents.
• FAST: This program allows expedited entry for truck drivers entering and exiting the U.S. from Canada and Mexico who are U.S. citizens, U.S. lawful permanent residents, Canadian citizens, Canadian permanent residents, and Mexican nationals. There is a $50 fee and it’s good for five years. It does not include TSA PreCheck. 

Credit cards with Global Entry application fee reimbursement:

There are multiple travel credit cards that offer an up to $100 application fee reimbursement credit for you to apply for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck if you pay with the card. Some of the options include:

• Bank of America® Premium Rewards®
• Bank of America Premium Rewards Elite Card

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

• Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
• Chase Sapphire Reserve®
• Aeroplan® Credit Card
• Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®
• Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card
• Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card
• IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card
• Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card
• The Platinum Card® from American Express
• United SM Explorer Card
• United Club℠ Infinite Card
• United Quest℠ Card

To view rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card, see this page .

To view rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card, see this page .

To view rates and fees of the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card, see this page .

To view rates and fees of the The Platinum Card® from American Express, see this page .

Intro bonus

Rewards Rates

• 10X 10x miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
• 5X 5x miles on flights booked through Capital One Travel
• 2X 2x miles on everyday purchases
• Annual $300 travel credit and 10,000 Miles upon card anniversary make up for the annual fee
• Airport lounge access
• Capital One Miles require effort to maximize
• Limited cash redemption options

Other benefits

• Travel protections including car rental insurance, trip cancellation/interruption and travel delay protection
• Consumer protections including extended warranty and return protection

The takeaway

Global Entry reimbursement is an under-rated perk of many premium credit cards. The time you take upfront to go through the enrollment process could save you hours over the next decade.

Fortune Recommends™ has partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card products. Fortune Recommends™ and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers.  

Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefits guide for more details. Underwritten by Amex Assurance Company.  

Please note that card details are accurate as of the publish date, but are subject to change at any time at the discretion of the issuer. Please contact the card issuer to verify rates, fees, and benefits before applying.  

EDITORIAL DISCLOSURE : The advice, opinions, or rankings contained in this article are solely those of the Fortune Recommends ™ editorial team. This content has not been reviewed or endorsed by any of our affiliate partners or other third parties.