Foreign Workers’ Compensation Policy Update: Travel to Israel, Haiti, Cuba, and Russia
Effective July 1, 2025, Cornell’s insurance provider has issued new requirements for faculty and staff traveling to Israel, Haiti, Cuba, or Russia on university-related business.
To ensure that you are fully covered under Cornell’s Foreign Workers’ Compensation policy, please follow the updated procedures outlined below.
Why This Is Important
Travel to these countries is considered higher risk. If you do NOT follow the required steps:
- Insurance coverage may be denied
- You may NOT be eligible for coverage related to:
- Medical treatment
- Work-related injuries
- Vehicle accidents
- Wage replacement benefits
Required Steps Before You Travel
All faculty and staff must complete the following steps at least 30 days prior to departure:
1. Notify the Office of Risk Management
- Cornell University (Ithaca): risk_mgmt@cornell.edu
- Weill Cornell Medicine: risk-mgmt@med.cornell.edu
2. Submit Your Travel Details (Detailed Information Required)
To ensure quick approval from the insurance provider, it is critical that you provide detailed and specific information, particularly regarding the Purpose of Travel and Security Precautions and Protocols. Incomplete or vague answers will delay the approval process or, in some cases, may result in a denial of coverage.
Please provide the following details:
- Purpose of Travel — A comprehensive and explicit description of your trip's goals, activities, and specific tasks
- Full Itinerary and Travel Dates — Exact dates and times, including any layovers or interim stops
- Cities or Regions to Be Visited — Include all locations, even secondary or remote areas
- Transportation Plans — Full details of air travel, ground transportation, rental vehicles, and travel routes
- Accommodation Information — Names, addresses, and security features of all accommodations
- Security Precautions and Protocols — A thorough explanation of safety measures in place, including risk management strategies, local safety protocols, and any contingency plans
- Number of Cornell Employees Traveling — Exact number and roles of all travelers
- Once we receive your complete and detailed responses, we will forward them to the underwriter at the insurance company for review. Providing thorough information will help expedite the approval process and ensure that coverage is secured for your trip. Without detailed answers, approval may be delayed or denied, potentially impacting your ability to travel or receive coverage.
Vehicle Accidents and Liability
If a faculty or staff member is involved in a vehicle-related incident while in Israel, Haiti, Cuba, or Russia, insurance coverage will only apply if the trip was pre-approved.
Additional Requirements for Travel to Cuba
Due to U.S. regulations, faculty and staff traveling to Cuba must:
- Be authorized under U.S. law (via an OFAC general or specific license)
- Submit the following forms:
- Allow a minimum of 30 days for processing and approval
- For more guidance, visit Global Cornell – Travel to Cuba
Summary
This policy is effective July 1, 2025, and requirements may be updated as conditions evolve. Please consult the Office of Risk Management prior to making travel arrangements.
Contact Us
For assistance or more information:
- Cornell University (Ithaca) - risk_mgmt@cornell.edu
- Weill Cornell Medicine - risk-mgmt@med.cornell.edu