Workation

Combining remote work with an extended stay in another location. Unlike a short bleisure extension, a workation typically involves working normally for an extended period from a different location, often chosen for its lifestyle appeal. Companies allowing workations usually need policy covering tax, duty of care and IT security for employees working remotely from abroad.

Workations became more common with the growth of remote and hybrid work. Employees may spend several weeks or months working from another city or country, sometimes in destinations that offer dedicated remote work visas — the UAE, for example, has a programme for remote workers. Unlike a business trip, a workation is usually initiated by the employee rather than the company, and the costs of travel and accommodation are typically paid by the employee.

Workations raise questions that go beyond a standard travel policy. Working from another country for an extended period can create tax obligations for the employee and the company, and may require a work permit or specific visa. Employers also need to consider data protection and IT security, working hours across time zones, health insurance and duty of care. Many companies set clear limits — for example, a maximum number of days per year — and require approval before a workation begins. Some companies also offer workations as a benefit to attract and retain talent, provided these issues are managed properly.

Tumodo makes it easy to keep workation arrangements separate from business travel. Using Vacation mode, employees can book flights and accommodation for personal travel, pay with their own card and still benefit from corporate rates. If a workation includes business trips — for example, a visit to a regional office — those can be booked in the usual way, with the company's travel policy and approval rules applied.