Work Abroad FAQ

A current Penn employee will work abroad for less than 30 days. Do I need to report this to GSS?

No, only requests to work abroad for 30 days or more should be submitted for GSS review.

A current Penn employee is moving to a different country. Can I engage them as an Independent Contractor to complete the same or similar work?

No, current or recent employees of the University cannot be engaged as independent contractors. If a department wishes to retain an employee who will relocate outside the U.S., the department should complete an Employment Abroad Request. 

Can employees work from U.S. territories, such as Puerto Rico, US Virgin Islands, or Guam?

For tax and employment purposes, U.S. territories are considered international locations. Penn’s Flexible, Hybrid, and Remote Work Policy applies only to work taking place within the 50 U.S. states or D.C. Requests to work in a U.S. territory are treated as international locations and should be submitted as an Employment Abroad Request for review.

Can Penn employees who are foreign nationals work abroad?

Before submitting an Employment Abroad Request, foreign nationals who are under University of Pennsylvania visa sponsorship must first consult with Penn ISSS to determine their eligibility for overseas employment.

Do employees abroad have access to benefits while they are outside the U.S.?

Penn employees whose Employment Abroad Request has been approved by GSS and who will remain on Penn’s U.S. payroll during the work abroad period will generally retain their University benefits. However, travelers should consult with their HR representative and medical insurance provider prior to departure from the U.S. to review existing coverage and benefit capabilities in the country of work. Penn business travelers should also register their international work travel in MyTrips which will provide access to Penn’s International SOS travel medical insurance policy for the duration of the approved Penn-affiliated trip.

Employees engaged through a third-party Employer of Record on a non-U.S. payroll may receive statutory benefits locally in the country of work through their local employer of record.

Does this guidance apply to Penn students?

No, this guidance does not apply to Penn students, including those employed by the University. For student payments, please visit the Paying Students Abroad information page.

Does this guidance apply to Penn faculty?

Yes, Penn’s employment abroad guidelines apply to all University faculty, staff, and postdocs.

For any additional questions, please contact Global Support Services at globalsupport@pobox.upenn.edu.