Travel Appeals Processes

The International Travel Appeals policy applies to any Ramapo employee who has reason to travel on approved/supported activities to a country that has been designated ‘do not proceed’. Students are NOT permitted to appeal this designation. The following document outlines the process to be taken by employees seeking to make an appeal, the criteria that must be met and the timeline for submission of the appeal.

Processes

The process should be initiated by completing a High Risk Travel Request form and must include a detailed description of preparations to ensure adequate and appropriate measures are in place to mitigate the risks and safeguard the health, safety and well-being of travelers. Below are more specific criteria that should be included.

Appeals Packet

The appeals packet must include the following:

1. A description of the objectives of the trip;
2. The importance of the program to the educational, research, service, or professional development of the individual(s);
3. The conditions at the proposed site that could impact health and safety (risk factors), including the level of risk to the individual health and safety;
4. A mitigation plan for each of the identified risk factors;
5. The traveler(s) knowledge of the area and conditions;
6. Clear description of in-country resources and support, including third-party providers, local host, etc. and their ability to provide support, the level of risk they assume, the role they play, etc.;
7. A description of contingency plans should it become necessary; and
8. A signed High Risk Travel Waiver for each traveler.

Review Process

The International Risk Assessment Committee will review the appeals application to ensure completeness. Once verified, it will be forwarded to the Office of General Counsel and the Provost for review and final approval. A faculty member with specific regional or cultural knowledge may be asked to participate in the review of an appeal to travel to a country deemed ‘do not proceed’. Categories for a decision are as follows:

• Yes
• Yes, w/ specific terms (i.e. hiring security professionals, purchasing additional insurance, etc.)
• No

Timeframes

Applications should come at a minimum 60 days prior to proposed travel dates to ensure sufficient time for review and traveler’s planning.