Red Flags: How Your Social Media and Marital Status Could Lead to Business Travel Visa Rejections

The complexity of business travel visa applications

Andrew MacRae, the director of Execuserve SA, a visa application partner of Corporate Traveller, tells us that these factors are sending rejection rates soaring for South African travellers. Embassies treat granting visas as a privilege, not a given right. So, it's on you to prove why you're travelling, your intention to return, and that you're not a potential troublemaker. Hence an increase in travel visas being rejected after a “social media review”.

Jumping through these hoops is increasing the burden on those arranging business travel for younger, lower-earning staff, recent hires, and first-time visa applicants, says MacRae.

And as if that's not enough, there's a geopolitical twist in this plot. Some countries add extra requirements for South Africans based on how their citizens are treated when applying for South African visas. It's a whole new level of playing chess. 

Ticking all the boxes. Is it enough to get a business travel visa?

When you travel for work, a business visa is like a special permission slip. It says you're allowed to do work-related stuff in another country, following their rules, for a temporary period. It's important because it shows you're not trying to get a local job there; you're there for your own business purposes.

But even if you've nailed all the paperwork for business trips, don't think you're in the clear. Some embassies are all about face-to-face chats. And yes, it can be nerve-wracking. Nervousness can lead to rejection, even if you're the most innocent traveller out there. So, if you're new to this game, Andrew MacRae suggests some interview coaching for an embassy visit to help you keep calm and carry on.

Oh, and let's not forget that visa processing times are dragging their feet, all thanks to the post-COVID staff shortages. What used to take weeks might take a whole lot longer now. And if there's a big event in town – say a regional rugby World Cup – that waiting time can stretch to six weeks.

Tips for getting your business travel visa 

MacRae's advice for visa applications for a business trip: Begin by sending your passport and travel details to a visa specialist as soon as possible. This information is essential for them to accurately assess your visa eligibility and predict the processing time at the embassy. DIY research is risky. Information published on embassy websites is usually outdated, he warns.

And what if your bank balance isn't exactly brimming? “Schengen nations demand personal bank statements reflecting a daily surplus of around €190 (R3 840), irrespective of travel purpose or full business coverage. A corporate credit card is insufficient too; your company should transfer the necessary amount for your trip expenses into your account as part of your application process," he warns.

Your employer and TMC – a winning visa team

Your company's support is key to cracking the business travel visa code – which is why having a (TMC) is invaluable for businesses with international travel needs, says Rategang Moroke, operations manager at Corporate Traveller. 

“Your travel manager ensures your flights, accommodation, and travel plans are on track, while our visa partners ensure your visa application process goes smoothly, from scheduling appointments to dealing with embassy requirements. Working together, we take care of your travel, so you can focus on your work goals and have a stress-free trip,” she says.

How to up your chances of getting a visa green light for foreign countries? Moroke has the following advice: 

Check your passport: Haven’t travelled for a while? Always check your passport's expiration date before making international plans. Many countries require it to be valid for at least six months after your return. Your travel manager will track this detail in your profile, and Corporate Traveller’s technology will alert you about expiring visas. Whew.

Contact your travel peeps: Reach out to your travel manager as soon as travel seems likely. They'll assist in determining the correct visa for your destination and nationality and can connect you with trusted visa partners.

Cover your back: Visa applications typically require proof of travel insurance. Rely on your travel manager to recommend suitable insurance providers for your business trip – each foreign country has unique risks.

Keep in the know: Travel regulations can shift suddenly – like overnight. Your travel manager will keep you informed about any changes that could impact your plans.

Book flexible tickets: Your travel manager can arrange flights and accommodations with greater flexibility, allowing you to adjust or cancel if your business travel visa application hits a curveball. This can be a money-saver.

Partnering with a TMC like Corporate Traveller can significantly impact your business travel visa application success. Our technology ensures your documents are in order, and your dedicated travel manager can secure refundable bookings for unexpected changes. With our visa specialists in the mix, you'll receive essential guidance to minimise rejection risks.

In a nutshell: Prepare your paperwork, boost your confidence, and most importantly, heed the advice of your visa application partner and TMC.