Traveling and Living Abroad

Q: How do I arrange for visas, air and ground transportation?

A: Refer to UC San Diego’s travel process for information on policies and procedures. You may also wish to contact UC San Diego’s designated travel agent or one of the associated agencies.

Q: How do I arrange long-term housing in anther country?

A: Your international collaborators may be helpful in arranging in-country lodging and transportation for you and your staff. UC San Diego’s MyTravel can advise you on many travel details related to preauthorizing and requesting prepayments, such as deposits. You can be reimbursed for lodging and other expenses by standard per diem rates for your location or, in some cases, by submitting receipts.

Q: How do I handle human resource issues, such as illness, accidents, or personnel concerns in another country?

A: The following suggestions may help you:

• The UC San Diego's Tropical Medicine and Travelers’ Health Clinic can advise on preventing illnesses. You may call them at 858-822-5320.
• Some staff buy personal emergency medical insurance specifically for travelers. The University of California offers traveler insurance coverage for staff and students traveling on University business.
• The U.S. Consulate or Embassy in each country may be able to help you in case of a medical emergency.
• The Environmental Health and Safety Office can advise on preventing and dealing with accidents.
• Also see the Environmental, Health & Safety Index of Services for a list of contacts for specific safety concerns.

Q: How will UC San Diego  staff be paid while they are in another country?

A: If you do not already have direct deposit set up for your paycheck, please consider this benefit before you leave the U.S. Then your UC San Diego paychecks will be deposited directly in your U.S. bank account, just as if you were in the U.S.

Q: How can I obtain cash for paying travel expenses in another country?

A: If you use a UC San Diego Travel Card, you can claim the ATM fee and the currency exchange fee for reimbursement. Timely payment on the card balance, within 30-45 days, remains your responsibility, no matter where you are working.

Q: Who can help me if personnel problems occur while overseas?

A: Contact your department’s business officer. He or she will be able to advise you on disciplinary actions or refer you to someone who can address your specific concern.