Non-compliance—whether on an organisational or individual level—can lead to severe consequences, including hefty fines, detention, employer sanctions and even the loss of business licences.
The challenge is magnified by the fact that immigration rules not only vary from country to country but also depend on the purpose of each individual’s visit. Whether your workforce is attending meetings, delivering services or working on long-term projects, the goalposts for compliance are constantly shifting. This complexity makes it essential for businesses to ensure that every traveller has a verified digital identity, covering compliance, health, duty of care and tax considerations.
Given these complexities, having the right tool is essential. Nomadic connects the dots, acting as an all-in-one solution for managing the risks associated with international travel and immigration. By integrating Nomadic’s technology and extensive know-how from experienced professionals, businesses can manage international travel and immigration risks more effectively. Solutions that automate compliance processes, provide real-time updates and streamline documentation are transforming how businesses navigate these challenges.
Real-World Consequences of Non-Compliance
The potential risks of non-compliance are vast, as illustrated by these real-world examples:
- Entering Saudi Arabia on an eVisa: A traveller using an eVisa for a business trip risks deportation. The company, meanwhile, could face losing its trading licence in Saudi Arabia, effectively cutting off future opportunities.
- Posted Worker Status in Europe: Failing to submit the required notifications for posted workers can lead to heavy fines and further labour inspections on all projects related to that company.
- Incorrect Visa Types in the U.S.: Travellers using an incorrect visa type to enter the United States risk deportation and may never qualify for an ESTA in the future. The company may also be liable for travel expenses if that traveller returns to the U.S.
- Travel through the Schengen Zone: Travellers must apply for the correct Schengen country, if they do not it can result in the traveller being added to a travel ‘watch list’ for the Schengen Zone, impacting future applications for visas and work permits.
- Entering China on a Tourist Visa: If authorities inspect the traveller’s luggage and suspect it is a business trip rather than tourism, the traveller can be detained and deported.
- Attending Sales Pitches and Meetings in Egypt: Entering Egypt on a tourist visa and taking meetings and attending sales pitches could put the traveller in jeopardy of deportation if authorities are made aware.
- Falsified Documents and Concealing Background information: Providing false documents or omitting relevant information, such as a criminal record, can result in an applicant being denied entry, potentially jeopardising future business opportunities.
Each of these examples demonstrates that even a small oversight can have cascading consequences—not only for the individual traveller but for the entire organisation.
The Staggering Costs of Non-Compliance
When companies or individuals fail to comply with local immigration regulations, the costs are often more than financial. Beyond fines and deportation, companies may face labour inspections, the loss of operating licences, and damage to their reputations. Even more concerning, non-compliance can affect a traveller’s future visa applications, limiting their ability to participate in international projects.
For businesses, a single violation can trigger future audits, reputational damage and long-term challenges in securing work visas. The cumulative impact can disrupt international expansion efforts, stall ongoing projects and ultimately hinder growth.
Technology as a Solution to Compliance Challenges
Managing the risks associated with global mobility requires more than awareness of local regulations—it demands a comprehensive, adaptable solution. In an era where immigration laws are constantly evolving, technology offers businesses a lifeline.
Platforms that digitalise and automate compliance processes, track necessary documentation, and provide real-time updates on evolving regulations are indispensable. They not only reduce the risk of costly mistakes but also allow companies to operate with confidence, ensuring that their mobile workforce remains compliant across international borders.
In today’s unpredictable international landscape, solutions like Nomadic provide businesses with the peace of mind needed to focus on growth and success, rather than worrying about compliance pitfalls.
About the author
 |
Clayton Prior is a Senior Manager on the Nomadic Client Services team. Clayton brings 18 years' experience in consular immigration and client services, specialising in supporting energy sector organisations and their offshore workers. He is based in London. Connect with Clayton on LinkedIn. |