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June 17, 2025

Duty of care: how can you look after your employees while they are abroad?

Duty of care refers to the obligation employers have to ensure the safety and well-being of their employees. This doesn’t stop at national borders: it continues to apply when employees travel for work or are sent on an international posting. What can you do to fulfil your duty of care optimally as an employer? Our colleague Erik Blankaerts, an expert in international mobility, explains.

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What exactly does the duty of care entail?

As an employer, you are legally required to look after your employees. What can you do to be able to send them abroad without any worries? There are various aspects to your duty of care:

  • Providing information about health and safety: make sure that your employees are properly informed and prepared in advance for their time abroad and that you also give them support while they are there. For example, you can tell employees about areas where there is political unrest or a risk of natural disasters, and give them vaccination and health advice and information about medical networks abroad.
  • Providing medical care: unfortunately, the standard of healthcare isn’t the same – or even adequate – in all places. Good medical insurance means that your employees are sure to receive immediate, good and affordable help if medical treatment is needed or something unexpected happens during their trip. Whether you opt for international private medical insurance (IPMI) and/or travel insurance depends on the employee’s individual situation.
  • Compliance: your company’s policies and procedures must be in line with the local laws and regulations of the country where the employee is staying.

IPMI insurance: the ideal protection for your international employees

IPMI is a wide-ranging form of insurance that is recognised worldwide and has numerous advantages. It covers the cost of medical treatment in the broadest sense. As well as unforeseen and regular medical costs in the event of accident and illness, this could also include costs relating to pregnancy, mental well-being and dental, eye and ear care. You can also arrange additional forms of cover such as life insurance, liability insurance and legal assistance.

Optimal services thanks to digital support

The importance of having good cover has increased in recent years. The rise of IPMI and the development of additional services from insurers and security experts mean that your employees are even better protected than before.

For example, digital applications give your employees 24/7 access to up-to-date information and support before, during and after their time abroad.

This service includes risk prevention, healthcare and check-ups. General additional services that support mental, emotional and practical well-being, both at and away from work, are also increasingly being included.

Fulfilling your duty of care is a factor in your company’s success

Employers who are committed to protecting their international employees reap the benefits. This approach has a positive impact on your employees and their family members, but also leads to less absenteeism, better retention of international talent, a positive corporate culture and support for compliance and risk management.

Our services

International employment also requires independent and specialised advice in the area of ​​insurance. We take a 360° approach, assessing all risks and helping your company to develop the right insurance for your employees abroad, regardless of the duration and destination and of the number of insured persons.

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