Future-Proofing the Energy Sector:  Visa Management in a Digital World

Growth and innovation in the energy sector are largely driven by international talent mobility and businesses today need to be primed to navigate visa and immigration compliance if they’re to deliver on their strategic ambitions.

Advances in digital technologies are transforming border management, making multi-national travel and work more efficient and secure but also adding new challenges for companies.  

Challenges for the Energy Sector  

The energy sector, particularly in offshore wind and renewables, faces both challenges and opportunities with these changes. The UK's renewable capacity is expected to grow by 70% by 2027, requiring a steady influx of skilled international workers. However, with the expiration of the Offshore Wind Workers Concession and tightening visa regulations, businesses must be diligent in managing immigration compliance.

One primary challenge lies in meeting all visa requirements amid increased digital surveillance at borders. Non-compliance can lead to severe penalties, including fines, travel bans, and deportation, potentially disrupting project timelines and the ability to maintain a skilled workforce.

The Impact of Digital Border Management on Visas

Europe's new border management systems, such as the Entry-Exit System (EES) and the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), are set to revolutionise visa management. The EES will automate the recording of entry and exit data, replacing manual passport stamping by the end of this year. ETIAS, coming into effect in mid-2025, will require visa-exempt travellers to obtain pre-travel authorisation, adding another compliance layer for business travellers.

Addressing Short-Term Visa Needs

Short-term visas are particularly crucial for the energy sector, where projects often require temporary workers with specific skills. Ensuring compliance with short-term visa regulations is vital to avoid penalties and disruptions. The increased scrutiny and digital monitoring of short-term stays make it imperative for businesses to track the duration and legality of their workers' visas carefully.

Embracing Technology for Compliance

Despite these challenges, technology presents significant opportunities. Integrating advanced technology in border management can streamline visa processes and improve compliance. Digital solutions for pre-travel assessments and visa management can reduce compliance risks and ensure regulatory requirements are met.

For example, digital tools can help track visa validity and permitted duration of stay, preventing unintentional overstays. Additionally, technology can facilitate better communication and coordination with immigration authorities, ensuring all necessary documentation
 is in order before travel.

Strategic Steps for the Energy Sector

To navigate the complexities of visa management in this digital era, energy sector businesses should:

• Stay Updated: Keep informed about the latest changes in immigration laws and border management systems.
• Adopt Technology: Invest in digital tools that aid in visa application, tracking and compliance.
• Enhance Compliance Protocols: Develop robust compliance frameworks to manage international mobility intricacies.
• Consult Experts: Partner with immigration consultants to navigate regulatory landscapes effectively.

Technology Approach to Visa Management

Nomadic is an innovative tool that enables the management of short-term global travel programmes, ensuring visa compliance and the avoidance of costly sanctions and resource delays for companies. Its features include:

• Pre-Travel Assessments: Automated tools that evaluate the compliance requirements for each trip, ensuring all necessary visas and authorisations are obtained beforehand.
• Visa Tracking and Management: Real-time tracking of visa status, validity and permitted duration of stay, helping to avoid overstays and compliance breaches.
• Compliance Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of immigration compliance, providing alerts and updates on any changes in regulations or requirements.
• Seamless Communication: Better coordination with immigration authorities, ensuring all documentation is accurate and up to date.

By integrating Nomadic into their processes, energy sector businesses can navigate the complexities of visa management more effectively, reducing risks and ensuring compliance with evolving regulations. Several travel management companies (TMCs) have already partnered with Nomadic to create a more seamless offering for their clients.

The digitalisation of border management is reshaping visa management. For the energy sector, this means adapting to new regulations and using technology to maintain compliance and operational efficiency.

Aberdeen-based Neil Thomson is a Director at Nomadic, a Fragomen Technologies Solution which offers a digital solution for short-term visas for energy firms and its workers. Fragomen has 6,000 immigration professionals and support staff in 60 offices around the world and offers immigration support in more than 170 countries. For more insights on managing visas and immigration in the energy sector, visit Fragomen.

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