{"alias":"contentPage","byline":null,"standfirst":null,"content":{"layouts":[{"type":"sidebar","areas":[{"items":[{"gridType":"accordion","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","showExpand":false,"items":[{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp style=\u0022mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-line-height-alt: 3.75pt; background: white;\u0022 class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan style=\u0022font-size: 12.0pt; font-family: \u0027Nunito Sans\u0027; mso-fareast-font-family: \u0027Times New Roman\u0027; mso-bidi-font-family: \u0027Segoe UI\u0027; color: black; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;\u0022\u003EDo you accept electronic signatures on the VA forms? \u003C/span\u003E\u003Cspan style=\u0022font-size: 12.0pt; font-family: \u0027Nunito Sans\u0027; mso-fareast-font-family: \u0027Times New Roman\u0027; mso-bidi-font-family: \u0027Segoe UI\u0027; color: black; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;\u0022\u003EThere is no longer a requirement to send the VA form to HQ. The Country Programme Team can simply add the relevant information to the \u003Ca href=\u0022https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/876e18aa0e384435bf4069088aa4d426\u0022\u003EHQ VA Notification form\u003C/a\u003E once the Visits Abroad Approver has approved the trip.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Do you accept electronic signatures on the VA forms?"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan style=\u0022font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: \u0027Nunito Sans\u0027; mso-fareast-font-family: \u0027Times New Roman\u0027; mso-bidi-font-family: \u0027Segoe UI\u0027; color: black; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;\u0022\u003EThere is no approval at HQ level, the reason it needs to be sent to HQ is to ensure there is central database of all Scouting visits abroad at any one time in the event of an emergency and also to allow for data analysis. The approval of a visit abroad sits only with the relevant Visits Abroad Approver. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","label":"How does a party leader know if the form has been approved at HQ?"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp style=\u0022margin-bottom: 0cm; mso-line-height-alt: 3.75pt;\u0022 class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan style=\u0022font-size: 12.0pt; font-family: \u0027Nunito Sans\u0027; mso-fareast-font-family: \u0027Times New Roman\u0027; mso-bidi-font-family: \u0027Segoe UI\u0027; color: black; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;\u0022\u003EThe purple International Introduction cards are produced by WOSM so we have no control over how these are created. These are requested from Scout Store by the Visits Abroad Approver or the member themselves. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Can we have International Letter of Introduction electronically?"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp style=\u0022margin-bottom: 0cm; mso-line-height-alt: 3.75pt;\u0022 class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan style=\u0022font-size: 12.0pt; font-family: \u0027Nunito Sans\u0027; mso-fareast-font-family: \u0027Times New Roman\u0027; mso-bidi-font-family: \u0027Segoe UI\u0027; color: black; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;\u0022\u003EWe are unable to translate these documents into other languages \u2013 the cards are already translated into French and Spanish and if any other languages are needed then this could be an activity a member of the planning team or a young person could take on. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Can the Purple International Letter of Introduction Cards be written in the local language we need that would be useful to those on explorer belt?"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EUnity have confirmed that cover can begin up to 18 months before a trip leaves the UK. If there are specific circumstances or needs that require this to be extended then it is best to call Unity for specific advice: 0345 0407703\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","label":"When planning an expedition far ahead it is often necessary to start insurance early to cover incoming and outgoing costs - at present Unity insurance can only start around 14 months ahead. "},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EThe submission of information to HQ helps ensure that relevant support is available for your trip and in the event of an emergency, please provide as much notice as possible for the trip to be logged online with HQ.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","label":"You require VA Notification to HQ 6 weeks before, what if this is late?"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp style=\u0022margin-bottom: 0cm; mso-line-height-alt: 3.75pt;\u0022 class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan style=\u0022font-family: \u0027Nunito Sans\u0027;\u0022\u003EIf you find out about a visit that has taken place and not followed the Visit Abroad process then this would be a local issue to address with the relevant Lead Volunteer ensuring that all involved understand the correct process for the future and have the support in place to ensure they are able to follow it. If HQ hear about a visit abroad that has already happened without following the correct process then again, we will work with the relevant Lead Volunteer and the party leader to ensure they have the correct information and support to ensure they are able to follow the process in the future. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","label":"What should we do if we find out about a trip that has gone abroad without following the correct Visits Abroad process? And what does HQ do about it?"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EWe\u0027re unable to make it compulsory to use Unity travel insurance and therefore are unable to attach the Unity forms to the VA form. Unity is noted within the VA Guidance as a contact point for advice about insurance. The Unity Travel Insurance form will be available in an accessible, digital, online format in the near future.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Can we make it compulsory that anyone travelling abroad uses Unity travel insurance and attach the forms to the VA forms?"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp style=\u0022mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-line-height-alt: 3.75pt; background: white;\u0022 class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan style=\u0022font-size: 12.0pt; font-family: \u0027Nunito Sans\u0027; mso-fareast-font-family: \u0027Times New Roman\u0027; mso-bidi-font-family: \u0027Segoe UI\u0027; color: black; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;\u0022\u003EWhere appropriate, Trustee Boards should be involved and informed about any relevant details associated with the visit abroad. This will be at the discretion of the relevant Visits Abroad Approver approving the visit. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","label":"What\u2019s the role of Trustee Boards in the Visit Abroad process?"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EThe definition is written to include absolutely any Scouting visit to another country including any international events, staff programmes or HQ visits. The party leader for the Jamboree/Moot etc. will be the contingent leader and as such we have liaised with the relevant teams to make them aware of this new process. Specific guidance for adult visits abroad will be produced to ensure they are aware of how to follow the Visit Abroad process.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","label":"The wording in the definition for VA does not seem to cover Jamborees, World Moot, Roverway, and such as the staff programme for Kandersteg, as organised by HQ team."},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003ENo, all previous restrictions on Beaver Scouts taking part in Visits Abroad were removed in January 2018. Guidance is available to support\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/running-your-section/international-scouts-and-events/going-abroad-with-scouting/colony-and-pack-visits-abroad/\u0022 title=\u0022Colony and Pack Visits Abroad\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EColony and Pack Visits Abroad.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Are there any specific rules or restrictions for taking Beavers abroad?"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/running-your-section/international-scouts-and-events/going-abroad-with-scouting/planning-for-incidents-and-treatments-abroad/\u0022 title=\u0022Incidents and treatments abroad\u0022\u003ERead our guidance on preparing for incidents abroad.\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Is there any guidance on developing an emergency plan for a visit abroad?"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp style=\u0022mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-line-height-alt: 3.75pt; background: white;\u0022 class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan style=\u0022font-size: 12.0pt; font-family: \u0027Nunito Sans\u0027; mso-fareast-font-family: \u0027Times New Roman\u0027; mso-bidi-font-family: \u0027Segoe UI\u0027; color: black; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;\u0022\u003EThis would need to be agreed with Programme Teams involved considering specific details of the trip. Even if just one Visits Abroad Approver approves the visit, it is best practice to ensure that all relevant Lead Volunteers are kept informed.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Which Visits Abroad Approver signs the VA form if involving groups from multiple districts and counties?"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp style=\u0022mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-line-height-alt: 3.75pt; background: white;\u0022 class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan style=\u0022font-size: 12.0pt; font-family: \u0027Nunito Sans\u0027; mso-fareast-font-family: \u0027Times New Roman\u0027; mso-bidi-font-family: \u0027Segoe UI\u0027; color: black; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;\u0022\u003EThe Visits Abroad Recommender is the person which supports the visit abroad throughout the process. Once it is approved by the relevant Visits Abroad Approver it will then be passed back to the Recommender to then issue the ILI Purple Card and complete the HQ notification online form. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","label":"If the Visits Abroad Recommender recommends final approval, and the form is the passed to the Visits Abroad Approver, how does the Recommender know if this has been approved?"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp style=\u0022mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-line-height-alt: 3.75pt; background: white;\u0022 class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan style=\u0022font-size: 12.0pt; font-family: \u0027Nunito Sans\u0027; mso-fareast-font-family: \u0027Times New Roman\u0027; mso-bidi-font-family: \u0027Segoe UI\u0027; color: black; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;\u0022\u003EThe relevant Visits Abroad Approver is the person who gives the final approval for a Visit Abroad. If this is against the advice of the Visits Abroad Recommender then it would be best practice for this to be noted in all documentation as to why they are going against advice. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Is the Visits Abroad Recommendation an advisory step that can be overwritten by the Visits Abroad Approver?"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp style=\u0022mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-line-height-alt: 3.75pt; background: white;\u0022 class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan style=\u0022font-size: 12.0pt; font-family: \u0027Nunito Sans\u0027; mso-fareast-font-family: \u0027Times New Roman\u0027; mso-bidi-font-family: \u0027Segoe UI\u0027; color: black; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;\u0022\u003ESomeone would need to undertake the Visits Abroad Recommender accreditation, or partner with another county.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","label":"What happens if your county/area doesn\u0027t have a Visits Abroad Recommender?"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp style=\u0022margin-bottom: 0cm; mso-line-height-alt: 3.75pt;\u0022 class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan style=\u0022font-size: 12.0pt; font-family: \u0027Nunito Sans\u0027; mso-fareast-font-family: \u0027Times New Roman\u0027; mso-bidi-font-family: \u0027Segoe UI\u0027; color: black; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;\u0022\u003EWOSM are in the process of sending out an updated version of these contacts and they will be sent out to Lead Volunteers and equivalent through Scouting \u002B as soon as we receive them. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","label":"I have inherited a very old global directory, is there any way to obtain a new copy?"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EYes, any visit abroad would need to follow the process.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Are reconnaissance trips covered in the process?"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp style=\u0022margin-bottom: 0cm; mso-line-height-alt: 3.75pt;\u0022 class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan style=\u0022font-size: 12.0pt; font-family: \u0027Nunito Sans\u0027; mso-fareast-font-family: \u0027Times New Roman\u0027; mso-bidi-font-family: \u0027Segoe UI\u0027; color: black; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;\u0022\u003ENo, the trip would need to instead be approved by a different Visits Abroad Approver who is not involved with the planning or delivery of the visit, with no conflict of interest.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Can the Visits Abroad Approver attend the trip abroad?"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan style=\u0022font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: \u0027Arial\u0027,sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \u0027Times New Roman\u0027; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;\u0022\u003EThe Visits Abroad process is designed to be used at all levels within Scouting and so for a county run trip the VA form needs to be approved by the County VA Approver, however if they are participating in the trip this should be escalated to the Regional Lead Volunteer who can support finding a suitable person to approve the trip. Part A would be completed as usual and when completing part B it may be beneficial to notify Lead Volunteers of who from their Districts are taking part.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","label":"How does the Visits Abroad process work for a county organised trip?"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan style=\u0022font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: \u0027Arial\u0027,sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \u0027Times New Roman\u0027; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;\u0022\u003ENo, although consideration should be made to how a trip will be managed as it grows in size. The level at which the trip is being organised should be the level at which the Visits Abroad approval is given. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Is there a maximum group size for a Visit Abroad?"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan style=\u0022font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: \u0027Arial\u0027,sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \u0027Times New Roman\u0027; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;\u0022\u003ENo, just the relevant permit for the type of accommodation. There is a requirement to complete the Visits Abroad process. Contact your Visits Abroad Recommender for details.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Is there a separate Nights Away Permit for going abroad?"}]}]},{"items":[]}],"config":null}]},"searchDescription":"Discover our most frequently asked questions related to to Visits Abroad.","pageType":null,"location":null,"browserTitle":"","versionDate":"15 July 2023","reviewDate":"05/11/2020","redirectUrl":"","id":46812,"nodeName":"Visit Abroad FAQs","title":"Visit Abroad FAQs","type":"contentPage","image":{"url":"/media/2834/growing-scouting-opening-new-sections-2x.jpg?cc=0,0,0,0.006683526011560673\u0026width=800\u0026height=450\u0026v=1dae1a4f2464ab0","caption":"Volunteer and Cubs sitting in a circle from behind","type":"jpg","size":130371,"width":1222,"height":692,"altText":"A volunteer in a light grey hoodie sits in a circle with a group of Cubs in green uniforms."},"assets":null,"headerOptions":{"headerTitle":"Visit Abroad FAQs","headerSubTitle":"","headerCta":"","headerCtaText":"","headerCtaLink":"","headerBackgroundColour":"","showSEOImage":false,"headerBackgroundImage":null,"quickLinks":[]},"subHeader":"Discover our most frequently asked questions related to to Visits Abroad.","silktide":"eyJjbXMiOiJVbWJyYWNvIiwiZWRpdG9yVXJsIjoiaHR0cHM6Ly9wcm9kLWNtcy5zY291dHMub3JnLnVrLy91bWJyYWNvIy9jb250ZW50L2NvbnRlbnQvZWRpdC80NjgxMiJ9","canonicalUrl":"https://www.scouts.org.uk/volunteers/running-your-section/programme-guidance/international-scouts-and-events/going-abroad-with-scouting/the-process-and-planning-for-your-trip/the-visits-abroad-process/visit-abroad-faqs/"}