Employers urged to double-check Group Risk policies around business travel in light of global conflict

With ongoing global uncertainty, insurers continue to align their approach to overseas travel with Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) guidance. However, we’re seeing disparity in how this is applied from one insurer to the next, so we’re encouraging our clients to contact their insurer if they’re undertaking business travel to make sure their destination, and their planned route to their destination, are covered.

In recent weeks, one insurer has given us in-depth guidance as they have a very clear stance on what and what isn’t covered. Another insurer has said they have no concerns whilst another said they are seeking legal advice. This demonstrates why there is a need to check.

In practice, this means employees are generally not expected to undertake new business travel to destinations where the FCDO advises against travel, and cover may be restricted or suspended in those circumstances unless insurers are notified and agree terms in advance. Where employees were already overseas before guidance changed, cover is typically maintained, and personal (non‑business) travel is usually less restricted.

Some insurers also apply limits based on “scheduled territories” and require notification for overseas working, secondments or extended stays. As ever, the detail matters, and employers should review their policy terms and insurer requirements carefully to ensure there are no unintended gaps in cover.

What should employers do now?

Employers should review their group risk policies to understand how overseas travel and working arrangements are treated, particularly where FCDO advice applies. Clear processes for identifying overseas business travel, secondments or remote working and notifying insurers where required can help avoid gaps in cover. Reminding employees to check FCDO guidance and flag overseas plans in advance is also a sensible step.

If you’re unsure of your cover, or you would like support speaking to your insurer, or arranging a new policy, please get in touch with Wren Sterling’s team of Group Risk experts.

IMPORTANT

This is not personal advice. Cover may be subject to exclusions, conditions, and limitations. It’s important to answer all questions accurately when applying, or your cover may be affected. Premiums must be kept up to date to maintain cover. You should review your cover regularly to ensure it continues to meet your needs.