Reimbursements for Foreign Travel Expenses

Per Diem Method

The preferred reimbursement method for approved University employee foreign business travel is to use the U.S. Department of State Foreign Per Diem Rates. The foreign travel per diem allowance is a payment in lieu of reimbursement for actual subsistence expenses. It is provided to University employees for daily expenses while on temporary travel status in foreign localities on official University business.

Separate amounts are established for lodging and meals plus incidental travel expenses (M&IE). The maximum lodging amount is intended to substantially cover the cost of lodging at adequate, suitable, and moderately priced facilities. The M&IE portion is intended to substantially cover the cost of meals and incidental travel expenses such as laundry, dry cleaning tips, baggage transport and handling. (See the U.S. Department of State Foreign Per Diem Rates Web site for more information.) Per diem for days of departure and return is calculated on the quarter method (also used for "Domestic Per Diem" calculations).

Actual Cost Reimbursement (Receipts Required)

Reimbursement for foreign travel may also be requested for actual, reasonable expenses. To use this reimbursement method, receipts and other documentation are required.

Last Updated: October 1, 2009