International Business Travel - vdma.org

From the VDMA's perspective, visa policy and technical interfaces are among the top issues for German-Brazilian cooperation in mechanical engineering. The German-Brazilian Business Days provide an opportunity for exchange.

Practical tips on reporting obligations for work assignments in Italy and on the construction site driver's license introduced in October 2024. Online event in cooperation with the German-Italian Chamber of Commerce on March 27, 2025.

Service providers offer discounted conditions - exclusively for VDMA members.

Foreign guests face various challenges when applying for a visa and entering Germany. Inviting companies can support them.

Since October 1, 2024, companies and self-employed persons working on temporary or mobile construction sites in Italy have been required to have a construction site driver's license. It is now also possible for foreign applicants to apply.

The "Electronic Travel Authorization" (ETA) will be extended to numerous European countries from April 2025. The application is possible from 5 March 2025.

China still requires an official PU invitation for certain countries of origin.

Short-term work assignments in the UK are possible without a visa on the basis of a purchase or leasing contract. Otherwise a visa is required.

Schengen visa may allow short-term deployment of non-EU service technicians in Germany.

Travel to Russia is possible, but increasingly security considerations must be taken into account.

Short-term business trips are possible without a visa, but a visa is required for assemblers and service assignments.

ICUnet and Inhouse Mobility now offer special conditions - exclusively for VDMA members

Up-to-date information and event tips in the VDMA Foreign Trade newsletter.

Member companies examine their own crisis management structures within the company using practical examples.

VDMA Foreign Trade supports and accompanies member companies in expanding foreign sales into future markets with potential.

Since February 2021, new visa regulations have applied to service assignments in Russia. The invitation procedure is a particular sticking point.

Additional PCR test after entry eliminated.

Air-Suvidha registration waived

In view of the forthcoming consultations between German Chancellor Angela Merkel and the Minister Presidents on how to proceed in the corona pandemic, VDMA General Manager Thilo Brodtmann warns against restrictions on business trips.

Border closures due to corona must not impede the movement of goods. Commuters must also be allowed to reach their workplaces in other European countries.

Visa procedures suspended for 68 countries

The EU Commission has published recommendations for a better coordinated approach to travel restrictions. A European solution is good, but freedom of movement is important at all times, not only during the crisis.

The cost per notification of an EU work assignment is estimated at an average of EUR 175.

The VDMA India Office has analysed and summarised India's existing trade agreements with important partner countries. Interested companies can thus record the respective conditions for imports and exports to and from other markets and take them into account in their business activities.

The VDMA practical guide "Travel risk management for work assignments abroad" shows the way to introducing the right structures and processes in the company.

The VDMA Foreign Trade team supports VDMA member companies in the internationalization of mechanical and plant engineering. We provide you with practical support in all matters relating to foreign business.