NPP Travel Directive English 21MAR2017 - CFMWS · 2019-06-25 · NPP Travel Directive 21 March 2017 6 (d) all money and property derived from, purchased out of the proceeds of the

NPP Travel Directive

21 March 2017 i

Travel Directive

Table of Contents

EFFECTIVE DATE...........................................................................................................3

APPLICATION..................................................................................................................3

APPROVAL AUTHORITY ..............................................................................................3

ENQUIRIES .......................................................................................................................3

DEFINITIONS ...................................................................................................................3

POLICY PURPOSE AND SCOPE ..................................................................................6

PRINCIPLES .....................................................................................................................6

Part I Administration ........................................................................................................8

1.1 Authorization .......................................................................................................................8

1.2 Leave in Conjunction with Travel Status/Accompaniment ..................................................8

1.3 Limitations ...........................................................................................................................9

1.4 Loyalty programs ............................................................................................................... 10

1.5 Overpayments .................................................................................................................... 10

1.6 Receipts .............................................................................................................................. 10

1.7 Responsibilities .................................................................................................................. 10

1.8 Suppliers, services and products ........................................................................................ 11

1.9 Travel advances .................................................................................................................. 11

1.10 Travel forms ....................................................................................................................... 11

1.11 Workplace change .............................................................................................................. 11

Part II Insurance ..............................................................................................................13

2.1 Insurance plans and compensation ..................................................................................... 13

2.2 Vehicle Insurance – Travel in Canada and the United States ............................................. 13

2.3 Vehicle Insurance – International Travel ........................................................................... 14

Part III Travel Modules ..................................................................................................15

3.1 Module 1 - Travel within Headquarters Area ..................................................................... 15

3.2 Module 2 - Travel Outside Headquarters Area – No overnight stay .................................. 19


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3.3 Module 3 - Travel in Canada and Continental USA – Overnight stay ............................... 24

3.4 Module 4 - International Travel (Outside Canada or the Continental U.S.A.) ................... 32

Part IV Emergencies, illnesses, injuries and death while on travel status .................40

4.1 Death while on travel status ............................................................................................... 40

4.2 Emergencies, illnesses and injuries while on travel status ................................................. 40

Part V Travel Process and Checklists for Traveller and Approving Authorities ......42

5.1 Travel Process .................................................................................................................... 42

5.2 Traveller Checklist ............................................................................................................. 43

5.3 Approving Authority Checklist .......................................................................................... 45

Appendix A – Insurance Coverage on Business Travel

Appendix B – Kilometric Rates

Appendix C – Allowances (Canada & US)

Appendix D - Allowances (international)

Appendix E – Delegation of Authority (To be updated with new table shortly)

Appendix F – Travel Waiver for Private Motor Vehicle Use

Appendix G – Gain or Loss on Exchange Example


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EFFECTIVE DATE Date of Issue: 1 April 2006 Revision Date: 1 January 2016

APPLICATION

This directive applies to The Staff of the Non-Public Funds (NPF), Canadian Forces (NPF Staff), members of the Canadian Armed Forces, DND Public Servants, NPF Contractors, and other persons travelling on NPP reimbursed business, including training. It does not apply to those persons whose travel is governed by other authorities (e.g. DND Public and reimbursed travel such as NPF staff serving in out-of-country deployed operations).

This directive only applies to travel duty less than six (6) months otherwise refer to HR for entitlements.

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Delegation of Authorities for the Financial Administration of Non Public Property (NPP) should be read in conjunction with this directive for the approval of international travel.

APPROVAL AUTHORITY

This policy is issued under the authority of DGMWS as Managing Director of NPP.

ENQUIRIES

Enquiries should be directed to the Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Services/Chief of Staff.

DEFINITIONS

Accommodation (logement)

Commercial accommodation (logement commercial) - lodging facilities such as hotels, motels, corporate residences or apartments.

Government and institutional accommodation (locaux d'hébergement du gouvernement et d'une institution) - federal government training centers, universities, colleges, Canadian or foreign military establishments, DVA hospitals, trailers, tents and other facilities owned, controlled, authorized or arranged by the Crown, including other educational institutions that provide sleeping accommodation.

Private non-commercial accommodation (logement particulier non commercial) - private dwelling or non-commercial facilities where the traveller does not normally reside.


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Declaration (déclaration) – a written statement signed by the traveller attesting to and listing the expenses for payment without receipt.

Dependant (personne à charge) – a person who resides full-time with the employee at the employee’s residence and is

(a) the spouse of that employee, or

(b) the biological child, stepchild, adopted child including a child adopted by aboriginal people under the Custom Adoption Practice, or legal ward of that employee or of the employee’s spouse who is both dependent on the employee for support and

(i) under 18 years of age, or

(ii) dependent on the employee by reason of mental or physical disability, or

(iii) in full-time attendance at a school or other education institution that provides training or instruction of an educational, professional, vocational or technical nature; or

(c) the parent, grandparent, brother, sister, uncle, aunt, niece, nephew or grandchild of that employee or of the employee’s spouse who is both dependent on the employee for support and

(i) under 18 years of age, or

(ii) dependent on the employee by reason of mental or physical disability, or

(iii) is in full-time attendance at a school or other education institution that provides training or instruction of an educational, professional, vocational or technical nature.

Economy class (classe économique) – the standard class of air travel, including special discount fares. It excludes first class and business class or equivalents.

Employee (employé) – a person employed by “The Staff of the Non-Public Funds, Canadian Forces”.

Employer (employeur) – For the purposes of this directive, the employer of record for Non-Public Funds (NPF) staff at all units of the Canadian Armed Forces, including those at a Base, Wing, Unit, or other element is the Staff of Non-Public Funds, Canadian Forces.

Headquarters area (zone d'affectation) – spans an area of 16 kms from the assigned workplace using the most direct, safe and practical road.

Incidental expense allowance (faux frais)


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Canada and Continental USA (Canada et États continentaux des États-Unis) – an allowance to cover the costs of items which can be attributed to a period in travel, but for which no other reimbursement or allowance is provided under this directive and to help off-set some of the expenses incurred as a result of having to travel. It includes but is not limited to such items as gratuities, laundry, dry cleaning, phone calls home, grass cutting, snow removal, home security check, plant watering, mail services, pet care, telecommunications hook-ups and service, shipping of some personal effects.

International (International) – an allowance to cover the costs of items which can be attributed to a period in travel, but for which no other reimbursement or allowance is provided under this directive and to help off-set some of the expenses incurred as a result of having to travel. It includes but is not limited to such items as gratuities, laundry, dry cleaning, grass cutting, snow removal, home security check, plant watering, mail services, pet care, telecommunications hook-ups and service, shipping of some personal effects.

International incidental allowances are based on a formula that takes into account the breakfast, lunch and/or dinner allowance for the applicable country/location.

In situations where there are no meal allowances from which to compute the incidental allowance for a particular country/location, the traveller will be reimbursed the equivalent of the applicable incidental allowance published in Appendix C, in Canadian dollars.

Individual Travel Card (carte-voyage individuelle) – The Individual Travel Card is a employer sponsored individual responsibility credit card issued to employees for official business travel. The purpose of this card is to provide a cost effective and convenient method of paying for official NPP travel expenses. The Individual Travel Card is intended to cover expenses related to temporary duty travel while away from the employee’s employment location for items such as commercial lodgings, vehicle rentals and related expenses, meals; and cash advance requirements.

Non-Public Property (NPP) (Biens non publics (BNP)) – NPP is a form of Crown property that is vested in the Chief of the Defence Staff and Commanding Officers. National Defence Act Section 2 states that NPP means:

(a) all money and property; other than issues of material, received for or administered by or through messes, institutes, or canteens of the Canadian Armed Forces;

(b) all money and property contributed to or by officers, non-commissioned members, units or other elements of the Canadian Armed Forces for the collective benefit and welfare of those officers, non-commissioned members, units or other elements;

(c) by products and refuse and the proceeds of the sale of thereof to the extent prescribed under Section 39(2) of the National Defence Act; and


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(d) all money and property derived from, purchased out of the proceeds of the sale or received in exchange for, money and property described in paragraphs a to c above.

Non-Public Property (NPP) business travel (voyage d’affaires pour les BNP) – all travel authorized by the employer, and is used in reference to the circumstances under which the expenses prescribed in this directive may be paid or reimbursed from NPP funds.

Receipt (reçu) – an original document, scanned pdf, or carbon copy showing the date and amount of expenditure paid by the traveller.

Spouse or common-law partner (conjoint ou conjoint de fait) – The parties hereunder agree that:

Current references to the term “spouse” are replaced by the expression “spouse or common-law partner”. The term “common-law partner” refers to a person living in a conjugal relationship with an employee for a continuous period of at least one year. The term “spouse” refers to the person married to the employee.

Travel status (déplacement) – an absence from the traveller's headquarters area on NPP business travel.

Traveller (voyageur) – a person who is authorized to travel on NPP business.

Workplace (lieu de travail)

Permanent/Regular (permanent/régulier) – the single permanent location determined by the employer at or from which an employee ordinarily performs the work of his or her position or reports to.

Temporary (temporaire) – the single location where an employee is temporarily assigned to perform the work of his or her position or reports to within the headquarters area.

POLICY PURPOSE AND SCOPE

The purpose of this directive is to ensure the fair treatment of travellers required to travel on NPP business consistent with the principles above. The provisions contained in this directive are mandatory and provide for the reimbursement of reasonable expenses necessarily incurred while travelling on NPP business and to ensure travellers are not out-of-pocket. These provisions do not constitute income or other compensation that would open the way for personal gain.

PRINCIPLES

These principles are the cornerstone of managing Non-Public Property (NPP) business travel and shall guide all employees travellers and managers in achieving fair, reasonable, economical, and modern travel practices.


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Trust – increase the amount of discretion and latitude for employees travellers and managers to act in a fair and reasonable manner.

Flexibility – create an environment where management decisions respect the duty to accommodate, best respond to employees’ travellers’ needs and interests, and consider operational requirements in the determination of travel arrangements.

Respect – create a sensitive, supportive travel environment and processes that respect employees’ travellers’ needs.

Valuing people – recognize employees travellers in a professional manner while supporting employees travellers, their families, their health and safety in the travel context.

Transparency – ensure consistent, fair and equitable application of the policy and its practices.

Modern travel practices – introduce travel management practices that support the principles and are in keeping with travel industry trends and realities; develop and implement an appropriate travel accountability framework and structure.


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Part I Administration

1.1 Authorization

1.1.1 The employer has the responsibility to authorize and determine when business travel is necessary, and to ensure that all travel arrangements are consistent with the provisions of this Directive. Following consultation between the employer and the traveller, the determination of travel arrangements shall best accommodate the traveller’s needs and interests and the employer’s operational requirements.

1.1.2 Business travel shall be authorized in advance in writing to ensure all travel arrangements are in compliance with the provisions of this directive and the CDS Delegation of Authorities for the Financial Administration of NPP. When the employee is not co-located with the approving authority, refer to para 5.3.2 of this document. In special circumstances, travel shall be post authorized by the employer.

1.1.3 Approval authority for trans-border and/or international NPP travel duty or conference events will be obtained as follows:

a. requests for international NPP travel for up to two employees of the CFMWS HQ, and/or CFMWS Field Staff must be approved by the appropriate Division Head in advance of travel; and

b. written approvals must accompany the travel request to Travel Coordinator.

1.1.4 Expenses resulting from misinterpretations or mistakes are not a basis for reimbursement or non-reimbursement. However, such situations shall be reviewed by the responsible Division Head on a case-by-case basis. Exceptions to this directive must normally be approved in advance by Associate DGMWS through respective Division Head.

1.2 Leave in Conjunction with Travel Status/Accompaniment

1.2.1 The employer has the unilateral right to determine what the lowest travel cost options are, and will not incur/accept any additional expenses caused by taking leave in conjunction with NPP travel. The employee will only be reimbursed for costs necessarily incurred during the NPP business travel period and thus:

The employer will not reimburse the employee for costs incurred during the leave period for expenses such as but not limited to: a) incidental expenses; b) meals;


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c) accommodations; d) additional airfare costs; e) rental of vehicles; f) kilometre allowance; and g) gas for rental vehicles or PMV’s.

1.2.2 In addition the employee must make all their own travel arrangements for the leave period and the NPP Travel Coordinator may make any bookings of hotels, airfare, or rental vehicles for individuals who are accompanying the NPP traveler.

1.2.3 The NPP Travel Coordinator responsibilities are to book airfare, hotels, and rental vehicles for individuals while on NPP travel. In some instances, the NPP Travel Coordinator may be able to accommodate a specific traveller request for alternative travel arrangements. For example, a traveller who is taking leave in conjunction with duty travel may wish to have an alternative departure or arrival destination. The Travel Coordinator may be able to accommodate such requests, within reason, and at the discretion of the Travel Coordinator. The traveller is responsible for providing the Travel Coordinator with the specific details of the travel arrangements being requested and obtaining approving authority permission prior to notifying the Travel Coordinator. The following example of NPP travel where leave is taken during the NPP business trip has been provided. If an individual from Ottawa has a conference in Vancouver leaving Ottawa on Monday and returning from Vancouver on Friday wishes to go to Victoria and fly home from Victoria on Saturday rather than Vancouver on Friday, then the individual must:

a) have written approval from approving authority prior to notifying NPP Travel Coordinator;

b) research and provide itinerary specifics; and

c) pay for any incremental costs due to change in location and date. Incremental costs will be calculated by Travel Coordinators.

1.3 Limitations

1.3.1 Expenses in whole or in part or any other remuneration to the traveller by a third party for travel expenditures will limit reimbursement by NPP.

1.3.2 The entitlement of a traveller to any of the expenses described in this directive may be limited to in whole or part prior to proceeding on travel; the traveller agrees to waive their entitlement in whole or in part of the expenses in this directive.


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1.4 Loyalty programs

1.4.1 Provided that there are no additional costs to NPP, travellers travelling on NPP business can join loyalty programs and retain benefits offered by the travel industry for business or personal use.

1.5 Overpayments

1.5.1 Overpayments, namely amounts reimbursed or paid to travellers, which are not in accordance with the terms of this directive, shall be recovered from the traveller as a debt owing to NPP.

1.6 Receipts

1.6.1 Where the traveller certifies that the receipt was lost, accidentally destroyed or unobtainable, a personal declaration may replace the receipt.

1.7 Responsibilities

1.7.1 The employer shall:

(a) establish the proper delegation framework (CDS Delegation of Authorities for Financial Administration of Non-Public Property) to comply with this Directive;

(b) ensure that this directive is available at the employee's normal workplace during the employee's working hours;

(c) determine whether travel is necessary;

(d) ensure that travel arrangements are consistent with the provisions of this directive;

(e) authorize travel (refer to the Chief of Defence Staff Delegation of Authorities for Financial Administration of Non-Public Property); and

(f) verify and approve travel expense claims before reimbursement (refer to the Chief of Defence Staff Delegation of Authorities for Financial Administration of Non-Public Property).

1.7.2 The traveller shall:

(a) become familiar with the provisions of this directive;

(b) consult and obtain authorization to travel in accordance with the directive;

(c) inform the employer or its suppliers of his/her special travel needs that may require accommodation;


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(d) complete and submit travel expense claims with necessary supporting documentation as soon as possible after the completion of the travel. If a travel advance was issued prior to NPP business travel, the advance will be recovered from the employee’s pay 21 days after return from NPP business travel if the travel expense claim has not been submitted for approval and payment. In travel situations exceeding one month, the traveller may submit interim travel expense claims prior to the completion of the travel; and

(e) be responsible for cancelling reservations as required, safeguarding travel advances and funds provided, and making outstanding remittances promptly.

1.8 Suppliers, services and products

1.8.1 Travellers on NPP business travel shall utilise government-approved suppliers and services selected in support of NPP business travel when these are available such as the Accommodation and Car Rental Directory.

1.8.2 When circumstances do not permit provision of prepaid arrangements, the traveller shall be reimbursed actual and reasonable costs, based upon receipts.

1.9 Travel advances

1.9.1 Employees on NPP business travel shall be provided with a travel advance to cover travel expenses only where government or NPP approved services and products are not prepaid or cannot be paid with an Individual Travel Card. For individuals who are not able to hold a Individual Travel Card, discuss this issue with your employer for alternate options. No travel advance will be issued to volunteers, contractors and contractors’ employees.

1.10 Travel forms

1.10.1 NPP approved travel forms (TravelXpert Software package) shall be used in seeking NPP business travel authority and submitting travel claims with the supporting documentation where necessary. Approval of travel can be done by e-mail from appropriate authority.

1.11 Workplace change

1.11.1 When an employee is assigned from a permanent workplace to a temporary workplace (outside of headquarters area) for a period of less than thirty (30) consecutive calendar days, the provisions of this directive shall apply.

1.11.2 When an employee is assigned from a permanent workplace to a temporary workplace, for a period of 30 consecutive calendar days or more, the provisions of this directive shall apply unless the employee is notified, in writing, 30 calendar days in advance of the change in workplace. In situations where the employee is not notified of a change of workplace in writing, the provisions of the directive shall apply for the duration of the workplace change up to a maximum of 60 calendar days.


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1.11.3 Transportation shall be provided to the temporary workplace or the kilometric rate paid for the distance between the home and the temporary workplace, or between the permanent workplace and temporary workplace, whichever is less. If reimbursement is authorized.


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Part II Insurance

2.1 Insurance plans and compensation

2.1.1 In the event that a traveller becomes ill, suffers injury or death, or is in involved in an incident causing third party bodily/property injury/loss or damage, while travelling on NPP business, the traveller or, where applicable, the travellers's dependants may be provided with protection, subject to the terms and conditions of the following:

(a) the Consolidated Insurance Program/Group Accident Policy; (b) the Consolidated Insurance Program/Commercial General Liability Policy; (c) the Government Employees Compensation Act, (GECA); (d) the Non-Public Fund Employee LTD Plan; (e) the Non-Public Fund Employee Health Care, (provides for medical and hospital expenses not paid under the GECA);

(f) the Public Service Health Care Plan (PSHCP) (applies to retired CAF members and Public Servants who have maintained coverage under PSHCP either in lieu or in addition to the NPF Employee Health Care Plan, and provides for medical and hospital expenses not paid under the GECA; and (g) the traveller is under the age of 70. 2.1.2 Details concerning NPF benefit programs are found in Appendix A.

2.1.3 Employees/travellers are advised to confirm with their insurance agent that they are adequately insured if they use non-commercial flights.

2.1.4 Additional insurance purchased by the traveller shall not be reimbursed to cover repairs to, or replacement of, damaged or lost luggage while travelling.

2.2 Vehicle Insurance – Travel in Canada and the United States

2.2.1 Collision damage waiver (CDW) coverage for the entire period that a vehicle is rented will not be reimbursed as this coverage is included when travellers use an Individual Travel Card. In circumstances when an Individual Travel Card cannot be used, coverage will be provided by the Consolidated Insurance Program (CIP).

2.2.2 Public Liability and Property Damage Rental Rate Insurance Coverage (PL/PD) coverage for the entire period that a vehicle is rented will not be reimbursed as coverage shall be provided by the CIP.


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2.2.3 The employer does not reimburse supplementary waiver insurance expenses. Employees are responsible and are required by government law to maintain adequate provincial/territorial state/country insurance coverage of public liability and property damage. 2.2.4 Employees using PMV on business travel are responsible for informing their insurance company and confirming that they are adequately insured.

2.3 Vehicle Insurance – International Travel

2.3.1 Collision damage waiver (CDW) coverage for the entire period that a vehicle is rented will not be reimbursed when coverage is included in the employer approved Individual Travel Card. In the circumstances when an Individual Travel Card is not used, or for areas where the Individual Travel Card does not provide coverage in that country, supplemental coverage shall be reimbursed as coverage is not provided by the Consolidated Insurance Program (CIP). Traveller should confirm coverage with provider prior to travel. 2.3.2 Public Liability and Property Damage Rental Rate Insurance Coverage (PL/PD) coverage for the entire travel business period that a vehicle is rented shall be reimbursed as sufficient coverage is not provided by the Individual Travel Card or the Consolidated Insurance Program (CIP). 2.3.3 The employer does not reimburse supplementary waiver insurance expenses. Employees are responsible and are required by government law to maintain adequate provincial/territorial state/country insurance coverage of public liability and property damage. 2.3.4 Employees using their privately owned vehicle on authorized business travel are responsible for informing their insurance company and should confirm with their insurance agent that they are adequately insured, as no additional insurance coverage is provided through the employer.


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Part III Travel Modules

3.1 Module 1 - Travel within Headquarters Area

The provisions outlined in this Travel Module apply when a traveller is away from the workplace on NPP business travel within the Headquarters Area.

3.1.1 Accommodation

Reimbursement for overnight accommodation within a traveller's headquarters area shall not normally be authorized. Travellers in the following exceptional cases shall be in travel status and reimbursed for overnight accommodation and according to the provisions of Module 3 (and therefore; entitled to incidentals):

(a) accommodation in government facilities for such purposes as live-in conferences, meetings and training courses; or

(b) accommodation in commercial facilities, in very exceptional or emergency situations that require travellers to remain close to their posts for periods long in excess of normal working hours, such as extended collective bargaining sessions.

3.1.2 Additional business expenses

The traveller shall be reimbursed business expenses not otherwise covered such as photocopies, word processing service, faxes, internet connections, rental and transportation of necessary office equipment and transportation of required personal effects.

The traveller shall be reimbursed for service charges/fees for actual and reasonable expenses and for financial transactions, such as but not limited to:

- Automated Banking Machine use;

- Individual Travel Card use;

- Credit/debit card use;

- Financial institution foreign currency transaction commission(s);

- Traveller’s cheques acquisition; and

- Cheque-cashing fees

Reimbursement claims shall be supported by receipts and indicate the expense currency.


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The traveller shall also be reimbursed for the cost of a safety deposit box when supported by receipts.

3.1.3 Bottled water

The cost of reasonable amounts of bottled water shall be reimbursed based upon receipts.

3.1.4 Currency exchange

Not applicable to this Module.

3.1.5 Dependant care


3.1.6 Home communication


3.1.7 Incidental expense allowance

Not applicable to this Module. With the exception of 3.1.1 and travel is over at least one overnight stay.

3.1.8 Insurance

See Part II and Appendix A.

3.1.9 Meals

Unless otherwise covered by terms and conditions of employment or collective agreements, meal expenses incurred within the Headquarters Area shall not normally be reimbursed.

Meal expenses including gratuities, based on receipts, may be reimbursed up to the limit of the applicable meal allowance in Appendix C or D, as applicable, in the following situations:

(a) when travellers are required to work through normal meal hours and are clearly placed in situations of having to spend more for the meal than would otherwise be the case;

(b) when travellers are required to attend conferences, seminars, meetings or public hearings during the weekend or holidays;

(c) when travellers are required to attend formal full-day conferences, seminars, meetings or hearings and where meals are an integral part of the proceedings;


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(d) when employer representatives are involved in collective bargaining proceedings;

(e) when intensive task force or committee studies are enhanced by keeping participants together over a normal meal period;

(f) when the reimbursement of meal expenses (actual expenses including gratuities shall be reimbursed, based on receipts and not exceeding meal allowance) is clearly reasonable and justifiable as a direct result of a traveller’s duties; or

(g) In the rare instance that accommodations are required as outlined in section 3.1.1, meal expenses shall be reimbursed

3.1.10 Rest periods


3.1.11 Transportation

The selection of the mode of transportation shall be based on cost, duration, convenience, safety and practicality. In addition to provisions outlined in this section under commercial, vehicles and other modes of transportation, expenses associated with the selected mode of transportation such as ferries, tolls, docking fees, shall be reimbursed. The determining factor in renting a vehicle is economic. If a rental vehicle is less expensive than a Private Motor Car (PMC) kilometric costs or the total cost of estimated taxi expenses, a rental vehicle must be used or the traveller must sign the waiver attached at Appendix F of this directive. The traveller will be reimbursed only for the most cost efficient method of travel. If a rental vehicle is more economic but PMV is used; traveller will be reimbursed for the cost of gas for the trip duration only (proof of purchase is required) and the cost of the rental vehicle.

When authorized travel or overtime causes a disruption in the traveller’s regular commuting pattern, the traveller shall be reimbursed additional transportation costs incurred between the residence and the workplace.

When conditions under workplace change are not met, transportation shall be provided to the temporary workplace or the kilometric rate paid for the distance between the home and the temporary workplace, or between the permanent workplace and the temporary workplace, whichever is less.

(a) Commercial

Where commercial transportation is authorized and used, the traveller shall be provided with the necessary prepaid tickets whenever possible.

Taxis, shuttles and local transportation services are alternatives for short local trips. Actual expenses including gratuities shall be reimbursed, based on receipts.


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Use of alternate modes of transportation (i.e. Uber) are only authorised in provinces and municipalities where those services are legal and regulated.

(b) Other modes of transportation

Occasionally, other modes of transportation not normally used on roadways shall be authorized for use on NPP business when this mode of transportation is safe, economical and practical.

Travellers using these other modes of transportation shall be reimbursed at the applicable kilometric rate based on the direct road distances, if available. When there are no road distances, the traveller shall be reimbursed for actual or reasonable distances travelled.

(c) Vehicles

The standard for rental vehicles is mid size. Rental vehicles beyond the standard shall be authorized based upon factors such as but not limited to safety, the needs of the traveller and the bulk or weight of goods transported.

The kilometric rates payable for the use of privately owned vehicles driven on authorized NPP business are prescribed in Appendix B. The kilometric rate payable when a Canadian registered vehicle is driven on NPP business travel in more than one province or in the USA shall be the rate applicable to the province or territory of registration of the vehicle. The same holds true for American or European registered personal vehicles. Travellers shall use the most direct, safe and practical road routes and shall claim only for distances necessarily driven on NPP business travel.

When a traveller has been authorized to use and uses a private vehicle within the headquarters area on NPP business travel, the traveller shall be reimbursed the kilometric rate in accordance with Appendix B.

Parking charges are normally not payable when the traveller is on duty at the workplace. In respect of every day on which a traveller is authorized to use a private vehicle on NPP business travel, the traveller shall be reimbursed the actual costs of parking the vehicle for that period of time.

3.1.12 Weekend travel home


3.1.13 Weekend travel - Alternatives



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3.2 Module 2 - Travel Outside Headquarters Area – No overnight stay

The provisions outlined in this Travel Module apply when a traveller is away from the workplace on NPP business travel outside the Headquarters Area without an overnight stay.

3.2.1 Accommodation



The traveller shall be reimbursed business expenses not otherwise covered such as airline checked luggage fees, business calls, photocopies, word processing service, faxes, internet connections, rental and transportation of necessary office equipment and transportation of required personal effects.

travellers whose schedules have been altered for reasons outside their control shall be reimbursed reasonable telephone costs to attend to situations related to the traveller’s altered schedule.

When a traveller is required to proceed outside Canada on authorized NPP business, the traveller shall make the necessary arrangements for obtaining an appropriate passport (5 year renewal only) and/or visa, and any required inoculations, vaccinations, X-rays and certificates of health, at no expense to the traveller. Where possible, the services of Health Canada, Veterans Affairs Canada or National Defence shall be used for medical services. Any related expenses incurred by the traveller shall be reimbursed.











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3.2.3 Bottled water

The cost of reasonable amounts of bottle water shall be reimbursed based upon receipts.


The costs incurred in converting reasonable sums to foreign currencies and/or reconverting any unused balance to Canadian currency shall be reimbursed, based upon receipts, from all transactions and sources. A sample of how to calculate the gain or loss on exchange from the purchase/selling of foreign currency can be found at Appendix G.

When these costs are not supported by receipts, the average Bank of Canada currency exchange rate shall apply. In cases where the Bank of Canada does not provide an exchange rate, an alternate bank rate from an established institution, as determined by the employer, shall be applied. The rate shall be the average of the rates applicable on the initial date into the country and the final date out of the country.

3.2.5 Dependant care

The traveller (excluding contractor) who is required to travel on NPP business shall be reimbursed actual and reasonable dependant care expenses up to a daily maximum of $35 Canadian, per household, with a declaration, or up to a daily maximum of $75 Canadian, per household, with a receipt when:

(a) the traveller (excluding contractor) is the sole caregiver of a dependant who is under 18 years of age or has a mental or physical disability, or

(b) two NPP employees living in the same household are the sole caregivers of a dependant who is under 18 years of age or has a mental or physical disability and both employees are required to travel on NPP business at the same time; or

(c) a NPP employee living in the same household as a Canadian Armed Forces Member or DND employee and both employees are required to travel on NPP, CF, DND business at the same time.

Dependant care allowance shall apply only for expenses that are incurred as a result of travelling and are additional to expenses the traveller would incur when not travelling.






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3.2.8 Insurance


3.2.9 Meals

A traveller shall be paid the applicable meal allowance for each breakfast, lunch and dinner while on travel status.

Meal allowances including gratuities shall be reimbursed in accordance with the rates specified in Appendix C or D, as applicable.

A meal allowance including gratuities shall not be paid to a traveller with respect to a meal that is provided. In exceptional situations where a traveller has incurred out of pocket expenses to supplement meals provided, the actual incurred costs may be reimbursed, based on receipts, up to the applicable meal allowance.

Where a traveller incurs meal costs that are higher than the established meal allowances in situations outside the traveller’s control, the actual and reasonable expenses incurred shall be reimbursed, based on receipts.

Reimbursement of meals for shift workers shall be based on the meal sequence of breakfast, lunch and dinner, in relation to the commencement of the traveller’s shift.

3.2.10 Rest periods






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(a) Commercial


The standard for air travel is economy class. The lowest available airfares appropriate to particular itineraries shall be sought and bookings shall be made as far in advance as possible. For Air Canada flights, there are three different levels of airfare below Business Class; Tango, Flex, and Latitude. Where available Flex is the standard booking level for NPP business travel. Flex allows no cost pre-seat selection and easier less expensive schedule changes (including same day changes at the airport). Both travellers and approving authorities must be aware of the fact that occasionally significant savings are available for Tango seat sales and should be taken advantage of when circumstances are appropriate.

The standard for rail travel is the next higher class after the full economy class.

Taxis, shuttles and local transportation services are alternatives for short local trips. Actual expenses including gratuities shall be reimbursed. Receipts are only required to justify taxi fares in excess of ten dollars.



Occasionally, other modes of transportation not normally used on roadways shall be authorized for use on NPP business when this mode of transportation is safe, economical and practical.


(c) Vehicles


The kilometric rates payable for the use of privately owned vehicles driven on authorized government business are prescribed in Appendix B. The kilometric rate payable when a Canadian registered vehicle is driven on NPP business travel in more than one province or in the USA shall be the rate applicable to the


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province or territory of registration of the vehicle. The same holds true for American or European registered personal vehicles. Travellers shall use the most direct, safe and practical road routes and shall claim only for distances necessarily driven on NPP business travel.

Travellers who are driven to or picked up from a public carrier terminal, shall be reimbursed the kilometric rate based on the distance to and from the public carrier terminal for each round trip.

In the interests of safe driving, when traveller-driven vehicles are authorized, travellers shall not normally be expected to drive more than:

• 250 kilometres after having worked a full day;

• 350 kilometres after having worked one-half day; or

• 500 kilometres on any day when the traveller has not worked.

Parking charges shall be reimbursed where it is practical and economical to leave a private vehicle at the public carrier's terminal during the period of absence.

In respect of every day on which a traveller is authorized to use a private vehicle on NPP business travel, the traveller shall be reimbursed the actual costs of parking the vehicle for that period of time.






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3.3 Module 3 - Travel in Canada and Continental USA – Overnight stay

The provisions outlined in this Travel Module apply when a traveller is away from the workplace on NPP business travel overnight, in Canada or in the Continental USA.

A daily comprehensive allowance may be authorized in circumstances where established allowances are not practical, reasonable or equitable.

3.3.1 Accommodation

The standard for accommodation is a single room, in a safe environment, conveniently located and comfortably equipped.

A variety of options for accommodation are available for travel. Generally these include hotels, motels, corporate residences, apartments, private non-commercial accommodation, and government and institutional accommodation.

Government hotel directories shall serve as a guide for the cost, location and selection of accommodation. In the event that there are no hotels or rooms available within the price range of the Government hotel directory, the delegated authority for the travel claim can authorize a higher cost hotel or room. In addition, if a hotel with a higher cost than found in the Government hotel directory is required due to other savings to CFMWS (reduction in taxi costs), then the delegated authority for the travel claim can authorize the hotel or room.

Unless the employer authorizes otherwise, when travel is related to activities held in an institution, the traveller shall stay in institutional accommodations.

Where travellers are in travel status at military bases, unless program-related or security reasons dictate the use of specific accommodation, a traveller's request for alternate commercial or private non-commercial accommodation shall not be unreasonably denied.

Although travellers generally stay in commercial accommodation, use of private non-commercial accommodation is encouraged. A traveller who chooses private non-commercial accommodation shall be reimbursed the rate as specified in Appendix C. In addition, ground transportation costs shall be authorized when it is cost effective. Cost effectiveness shall be determined by comparing the total cost of accommodation and transportation in the private non-commercial accommodation versus available commercial or government and institutional accommodation and the associated transportation costs.

For periods of travel status of more than 30 consecutive calendar days at the same location, accommodation at corporate residences, apartments, private non-commercial accommodation or government and institutional accommodation is encouraged. Travellers who choose to stay in a hotel after the thirtieth day (30th) when apartments or corporate residences are available in the area surrounding the workplace, shall only be reimbursed up to the cost of the average apartment or corporate residence available.


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Travellers whose schedules have been altered for reasons outside their control shall be reimbursed reasonable telephone costs to attend to situations related to the traveller’s altered schedule.

When a traveller is required to proceed outside Canada on authorized NPP business, the traveller shall make the necessary arrangements for obtaining an appropriate passport (5 year renewal only) and/or visa, and any required inoculations, vaccinations, X-rays and certificates of health, at no expense to the traveller. Where possible, the services of Health Canada, Veterans Affairs Canada or National Defence shall be used for medical services. Any related expenses incurred by a traveller shall be reimbursed.










3.3.3 Bottled water

The cost of reasonable amounts of bottled water shall be reimbursed upon receipts.


The costs incurred in converting reasonable sums to foreign currencies and/or reconverting any unused balance to Canadian currency shall be reimbursed, based upon receipts, from all transactions and sources. A sample of how to calculate the gain


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or loss on exchange from the purchase/selling of foreign currency can be found at Appendix G.


3.3.5 Dependant Care







Home communication is included in the incidental expense allowance.


A traveller shall be paid an incidental expense allowance that covers a number of miscellaneous expenses not otherwise provided for in this directive for each day or part day in travel status as per Appendix C. Part day does not include days where a late-night flight arrives in the traveller's headquarters area after midnight.

The following exception applies: Seventy-five percent (75%) of the incidental allowance as specified in Appendix C shall be paid starting on the thirty-first (31st) consecutive calendar day of travel status while at the same location when corporate residences or apartment hotels are available to a traveller in the area surrounding the workplace, or the traveller chooses to stay in private accommodation.


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When a traveller visits locations in Canada and the USA on the same day, the incidental expense allowance paid shall be that for the location where the day commences.

3.3.8 Insurance


3.3.9 Meals


Meal allowances including gratuities shall be reimbursed in accordance with the rates specified in Appendix C.

The following exception applies: Seventy-five percent (75%) of the meal allowances as specified in Appendix C shall be paid starting on the thirty-first (31st) consecutive calendar day of travel status at the same location when corporate residences or apartment hotels are available to a traveller in the area surrounding the workplace, or the traveller chooses to stay in private accommodation.


Where a traveller incurs meal costs that are higher than the established meal allowances in situations outside the traveller’s control, the actual and reasonable expenses incurred shall be reimbursed, based on receipts.

Reimbursement of meals for shift workers shall be based on the meal sequence of breakfast, lunch and dinner, in relation to the commencement of the traveller’s shift

3.3.10 Rest periods

Unless mutually agreed otherwise, itineraries shall be arranged to provide for

(a) a suitable rest period, and/or

(b) an overnight stop after travel time of at least nine consecutive hours.

Travel time is the time spent in any mode of transportation en-route to destination and/or awaiting immediate connections. This includes the time spent travelling to and from a carrier/terminal.

A suitable rest period shall not be unreasonably denied.


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(a) Commercial




Taxis, shuttles and local transportation services are alternatives for short local trips. Actual expenses including gratuities shall be reimbursed. Receipts are only required to justify taxi fares in excess of ten dollars.



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Occasionally, other modes of transportation not normally used on roadways shall be authorized for use on NPP business travel when this mode of transportation is safe, economical and practical.


(c) Vehicles


The kilometric rates payable for the use of privately owned vehicles driven on authorized NPP business are prescribed in Appendix B. The kilometric rate payable when a Canadian registered vehicle is driven on NPP business travel in more than one province or in the USA shall be the rate applicable to the province or territory of registration of the vehicle. The same holds true for American or European registered personal vehicles. Travellers shall use the most direct, safe and practical road routes and shall claim only for distances necessarily driven on government business travel.









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The use of the weekend travel home provisions or its alternatives does not constitute a break in continuous travel at the same location.

A traveller who is in travel status that extends through or beyond a weekend is eligible for weekend travel home provisions provided that the following conditions are met:

(a) work schedules permit the traveller to be absent;

(b) appropriate private or public transportation is available and its use is both practical and reasonable; and

(c) After completion of the travel, there are no fewer than three days of actual duty remaining at the temporary duty location.

Every weekend:

An eligible traveller entitled to travel home every weekend shall be reimbursed actual transportation costs up to an amount not exceeding:

(a) the cost of maintaining the traveller in travel status for the week-end period (i.e. accommodation, meals, incidental, and other expense allowances), if the accommodation is cancelled for the week-end; or

(b) when the accommodation is not cancelled, the weekend travel home transportation allowances stated in Appendix C shall apply.

Every third weekend on average:

There will be occasions when a traveller in travel status for a period of more than thirty (30) consecutive calendar days in Canada or the continental USA is so far from home that travel home every weekend would be impractical.

In such situations where travel home every weekend is impractical and provided that the traveller is in continuous travel status, the traveller may return home on average every third weekend and schedule actual weekend trips home within the maximum number permitted to meet personal needs.

The traveller shall be reimbursed the most economical return airfare, the necessary return ground transportation to and from the carrier’s terminal and meals en route. The most economical air fare shall be air fare booked more than 14 days in advance with a Saturday night stay over. Meals and incidentals at destination shall not be reimbursed. The accommodation at the duty travel location need not be cancelled.


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(a) By the traveller

Provided that the traveller is not required by CFMWS to remain at the duty travel location, a traveller may choose to spend the weekend at an alternative location. To be eligible for reimbursement, the traveller shall: cancel charges for accommodation (and meals provided on-site) at the duty travel location; provide a receipt for alternative commercial accommodation when used; and not return home or to the headquarters area during the weekend.

Reimbursement shall be limited to the cost of maintaining the traveller at the duty travel location and shall include the cost of accommodation, meals, incidentals.

Arrangements are the personal responsibility of the traveller without using the government or NPP approved services. The traveller assumes personal liability as if the traveller were not on travel status.

The use of this provision does not preclude the traveller’s entitlement to week-end travel home.

(b) By the traveller ’s spouse/dependant

As an alternative to weekend travel home by the traveller, a spouse/dependant may be authorized to travel to the traveller’s assigned work location when there is no additional cost to the employer. Ground transportation to and from the public carrier shall be reimbursed. Insurance coverage for the spouse/dependant is the responsibility of the traveller.


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3.4 Module 4 - International Travel (Outside Canada or the Continental U.S.A.)

The provisions outlined in this Travel Module apply when a traveller is away from the workplace on government business travel overnight, outside Canada or the Continental USA or when the point of departure is outside of Canada or the Continental USA.

A daily comprehensive allowance may be authorized in circumstances where established allowances are not practical, reasonable or equitable.

Where an individual is employed in Europe (normal place of work) and travel with overnight stay is required within Europe, then follow Module 3 – Travel in Canada and Continental USA – Overnight Stay.

3.4.1 Accommodation

The standard for accommodation is a single room, in a safe environment, conveniently located and comfortably equipped.

A variety of options for accommodation are available for travel. Generally these include hotels, motels, corporate residences, apartments, private non-commercial accommodation, government owned/leased accommodation and institutions.

Government hotel directories shall serve as a guide for the cost, location and selection of accommodation. In the event that there are no hotels or rooms available within the price range of the Government hotel directory, the delegated authority for the travel claim can authorize a higher cost hotel or room. In addition, if a hotel with a higher cost than found in the Government hotel directory is required due to other savings to CFMWS (reduction in taxi costs), then the delegated authority for the travel claim can authorize the hotel or room.

Unless the employer authorizes otherwise, when travel is related to activities held in an institution, the traveller shall stay in institutional accommodations.

Where travellers are in travel status at military bases, unless program-related or security reasons dictate the use of specific accommodation, a traveller's request for alternate commercial or private non-commercial accommodation shall not be unreasonably denied.

Although travellers generally stay in commercial accommodation, use of private non-commercial accommodation is encouraged. A traveller who chooses private non-commercial accommodation shall be reimbursed the rate as specified in Appendix D. In addition, ground transportation costs shall be authorized when it is cost effective. Cost effectiveness shall be determined by comparing the total cost of accommodation and transportation in the private non-commercial accommodation versus available commercial or government and institutional accommodation and the associated transportation costs.


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For periods of travel status of more than thirty (30) consecutive calendar days at the same location, accommodation at corporate residences, apartments, private non-commercial accommodation or government and institutional accommodation is encouraged. Travellers who choose to stay in a hotel after the thirtieth day (30th) when apartments or corporate residences are available in the area surrounding the workplace, shall only be reimbursed up to the cost of the average apartment or corporate residence available.



Travellers whose schedules have been altered for reasons outside their control shall be reimbursed reasonable telephone costs to attend to situations related to the traveller’s altered schedule.

When an e traveller is required to proceed outside Canada on authorized NPP business, the traveller shall make the necessary arrangements for obtaining an appropriate passport (5 year renewal only) and/or visa, and any required inoculations, vaccinations, X-rays and certificates of health, at no expense to the traveller. Where possible, the services of Health Canada, Veterans Affairs Canada or National Defence shall be used for medical services. Any related expenses incurred by an employee traveller shall be reimbursed.











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3.4.3 Bottled water

The cost of bottled water shall be reimbursed in situations deemed necessary and based on receipts for reasonable quantities.


The costs incurred in converting reasonable sums to foreign currencies and/or reconverting any unused balance to Canadian currency shall be reimbursed, based upon receipts, from all transactions and sources. A sample of how to calculate the gain or loss on exchange from the purchase/selling of foreign currency can be found at Appendix G.


3.4.5 Dependant Care







Over each contiguous three-day period away from home, travellers in travel status shall be reimbursed the equivalent of one ten-minute phone call home, based on receipts.

Travellers provided with international telephone-card privileges, or who have made use of government international telephone network facilities for home communication, shall not claim the cost of telephone calls home.


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A traveller shall be paid an incidental expense allowance that covers a number of miscellaneous expenses not otherwise provided for in this directive for each day or part day in travel status as per Appendix C or D, as applicable. Part day does not include days where a late-night flight arrives in the traveller's headquarters area after midnight.

The following exception applies: Seventy-five percent (75%) of the incidental allowance as specified in Appendix C or D, as applicable, shall be paid starting on the thirty first (31st) consecutive calendar day of travel status while at the same location when corporate residences or apartment hotels are available to a traveller in the area surrounding the workplace, or the traveller chooses to stay in private accommodation.

When a traveller visits locations in different countries on the same day, the incidental expense allowance paid shall be that for the location where the day commences.

3.4.8 Insurance


3.4.9 Meals


Meal allowances including gratuities shall be reimbursed in accordance with the rates specified in Appendix C or D, as applicable.

The following exception applies: Seventy-five percent (75%) of the meal allowances as specified in Appendix C or D, as applicable shall be paid starting on the thirty first (31st) consecutive calendar day of travel status at the same location when corporate residences or apartment hotels are available to a traveller in the area surrounding the workplace, or the traveller chooses to stay in private accommodation.

Where no meal allowance has been established in a given country actual and reasonable expenses shall be reimbursed, based on receipts.


Where a traveller incurs meal costs that are higher than the established meal allowances in situations outside the traveller’s control, the actual and reasonable expenses incurred for all meal expenses on that travel day shall be reimbursed, based on receipts.


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3.4.10 Rest periods

Unless mutually agreed otherwise, itineraries shall be arranged to provide for

(a) a suitable rest period, and/or

(b) an overnight stop after travel time of at least nine consecutive hours.

Travel time is the time spent in any mode of transportation en-route to destination and/or awaiting immediate connections. This includes the time spent travelling to and from a carrier/terminal.

A suitable rest period shall not be unreasonably denied.



When authorized travel or overtime causes a disruption in the traveller’s regular commuting pattern, the traveller shall be reimbursed actual additional transportation costs incurred between the residence and the workplace.

(a) Commercial




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Where available, business/executive class air travel shall be authorized where continuous air travel exceeds nine hours. Continuous air travel starts at the scheduled departure time, and ends with the arrival at destination or with an overnight stop or layover equivalent to an overnight stop.


Taxis, shuttles and local transportation services are alternatives for short local trips. Actual expenses including gratuities shall be reimbursed, based on receipts.

Use of alternate modes of transportation (i.e. Uber) are only authorised where those services are legal and regulated.


Occasionally, other modes of transportation not normally used on roadways shall be authorized for use on NPP business travel when this mode of transportation is safe, economical and practical.


(c) Vehicles


Public Liability and Property Damage (PL/PD) insurance should be purchased in most instances while on International official business travel. For more information refer to Appendix A.

The kilometric rates payable for the use of privately owned vehicles driven on authorized NPP business are provided in Appendix B. The kilometric rate payable when a Canadian registered vehicle is driven on NPP business travel in more than one province or in the USA shall be the rate applicable to the province or territory of registration of the vehicle. The same holds true for American or European registered personal vehicles. Travellers shall use the most direct, safe and practical road routes and shall claim only for distances necessarily driven on NPP business travel.


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The use of the weekend travel home provisions or its alternatives does not constitute a break in continuous travel at the same location.

A traveller who is in travel status that extends through or beyond a weekend is eligible for weekend travel home provisions provided that the following conditions are met:

(a) work schedules permit the traveller to be absent;

(b) appropriate private or public transportation is available and its use is both practical and reasonable; and

(c) After completion of the travel, there are no fewer than three days of actual duty remaining at the temporary duty location.

Provided the traveller is in continuous travel status, the traveller is entitled to return home as per the table below:

Minimum of: 7 weeks = 1 trip

12 weeks = 2 trips

17 weeks = 3 trips

22 weeks = 4 trips

The traveller shall be reimbursed, based on receipts, a maximum of the most economical return airfare, the necessary return ground transportation to and from the


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carrier’s terminal, and meals en route. Meals and incidentals at destination shall not be reimbursed. The accommodation at the duty travel location need not be cancelled.

The most economical airfare shall be booked more than 14 days in advance with a Saturday night stay over. The traveller may schedule actual weekend trips home within the maximum number permitted to meet personal needs.


(a) By the traveller

Provided that the traveller is not required by the employer to remain at the duty travel location, a traveller may choose to spend the weekend at an alternative location. Such arrangements shall be made in consideration of security and diplomatic contexts. To be eligible for reimbursement, the traveller shall: cancel charges for accommodation (and meals provided on-site) at the duty travel location; provide a receipt for alternative commercial accommodation when used; and not return home or to the headquarters area during the weekend.

Reimbursement shall be limited to the cost of maintaining the traveller at the duty travel location and shall include the cost of accommodation, meals, incidentals.

Arrangements are the personal responsibility of the traveller without using the government or NPP approved services. The traveller assumes personal liability as if the traveller were not on travel status.

The use of this provision does not preclude the traveller’s entitlement to weekend travel home.

(b) By the traveller’s spouse or a dependant

As an alternative to weekend travel home by the traveller, a spouse or a dependant may be authorized to travel to the traveller’s assigned work location when there is no additional cost to the employer. Ground transportation to and from the public carrier shall be reimbursed. Such arrangements shall be made in consideration of security and diplomatic contexts. Insurance coverage for the spouse/dependant is the responsibility of the traveller.


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Part IV Emergencies, illnesses, injuries and death while on travel status

4.1 Death while on travel status

4.1.1 If an employee dies while in travel status, the employer shall authorize the payment of necessary expenses that are additional to those which might have been incurred had the death occurred in the headquarters area. Reimbursement of costs incurred shall be reduced by any amount payable under some other authority. Expenses payable are:

(a) at the place where death occurred: ambulance, hearse, embalming/cremation, outside crate/container (but not the cost of a coffin/urn) and any other services or items required by local health laws, and

(b) transportation of the remains to the headquarters area or, if desired by the survivors, to another location, up to the cost of transportation to the headquarters area. Costs for an escort over and above the costs included in transporting the remains are payable only when an escort is required by law.

4.1.2 Where the remains are not transported, travel for next-of-kin or a representative of the family to the place of burial shall be reimbursed as though that person were an employee.

4.2 Emergencies, illnesses and injuries while on travel status

4.2.1 Payment for the use of a suitable conveyance, such as an ambulance or taxi, shall be authorized where an employee becomes ill or is injured when, in the opinion of the employer, the employee, or the attending medical practitioner, the nature of the illness or injury requires that the employee be transported to a medical treatment facility, the workplace, the travel-related accommodation, or home.

4.2.2 An employee shall be reimbursed the necessary expenses incurred as a result of illness or accident occurring while in travel status, to the extent that the employer is satisfied the expenses were additional to those which might have been incurred had the employee not been absent from home, and which were not otherwise payable to the employee under an insurance policy, the Government Employees Compensation Act, or other authority.

4.2.3 An employee who becomes ill or is injured while outside Canada shall, where practical, be provided with a justifiable, accountable advance when incurring sizeable medical expenses. Such advances would subsequently be repaid to the employer under the employee's private insurance plans, the Government Employees Compensation Act, or other authority.

4.2.4 When, in the opinion of the attending physician, an employee's condition resulting from illness or injury warrants the presence of the next-of-kin or a


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representative of the family, actual and reasonable travel expenses may be reimbursed, as if that person were an employee.

4.2.5 An employee may be authorized to return earlier than scheduled as a result of personal illness or accident or in the event of emergency situations at home (e.g. serious illness in the opinion of a physician, fire, flood, ice storm).

4.2.6 A trip home under this section shall not be taken into account when establishing the employee’s eligibility for weekend travel home.

4.2.7 When a trip home for reasons specified in this section is not warranted, actual and reasonable expenses incurred for long distance telephone calls home shall be reimbursed.


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Part V Travel Process and Checklists for Traveller and Approving Authorities

5.1 Travel Process

5.1.1 Approving Authority provides authority in writing to the individual to travel.

5.1.2 In rare circumstances where a travel advance is required, the appropriate approving authority authorizes the advance and submits to the local NPP accounting office for payment.

5.1.3 Using the TravelXpert software, travel request is sent to the CFMWS Travel Services providing the following information:

(a) transportation requirements to cover mode of travel (air, rail, PMC), travel dates, preferred travel times;

(b) accommodation requirements for each night/location in DND or commercial facilities;

(c) car rental, including any special requirements for each location;

(d) the applicable general ledger account; and

(e) a copy of the approval authority at section 5.1.1.

5.1.4 CFMWS Travel Services arranges bookings as requested.

5.1.5 CFMWS Travel Services confirms suitability of travel with traveller and/or approving authority.

5.1.6 CFMWS Travel Services provides traveller with detail documentation related to travel.

5.1.7 If there are any changes to be made prior to departure of travel, inform CFMWS Travel Services immediately.

5.1.8 Traveller goes on trip.

5.1.9 If during the travel period, the traveller must amend travel requirements (eg change flights or lodgings) during regular business hours 0800 hr to 1600 hr EST, then request CFMWS Travel Services to amend changes. If changes are required after regular business hours, then the traveller must call AMEX to amend travel. (Please note, AMEX after hours services are for emergency only.) Changes can be made by CFMWS Travel Services (business hours) or AMEX (after hours) up to two hours prior to departure time. Within two hours, changes must be made directly with the airline. Not all hotel arrangements are made with AMEX. If after hours, please call the hotel directly in order not to be charged a no show fee. If the traveller leaves the hotel


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accommodations prior to the original date of departure, ensure to check out. Car rentals are not always made with AMEX, please contact the car rental directly if changes/cancellations need to be made after hours. Upon return, traveller will inform CFMWS Travel Services of any changes made by the traveller.

5.1.10 Upon return to work traveller completes TravelXpert travel claim (see 5.2.11 for more details).

5.1.11 If a travel advance was issued, it will be recovered from the travellers pay 21 days from the date of return of the NPP business travel if the travel expense claim has not been submitted for approval and payment.

5.1.12 Approving authority approves travel claim and TravelXpert claim is sent to the local NPP accounting office for payment (see 5.2.12 to 5.2.14 for more details).

5.1.13 Traveller to receive electronic payment based on approved TravelXpert claim.

5.2 Traveller Checklist

5.2.1 Traveller is informed of requirement to travel.

5.2.2 If first time travelling and occasional travel is required, request a Individual Travel Card. For more details on CFMWS refer to A-FN-105-001/AG-001 Chapter 12.

5.2.3 Inform CFMWS Travel Services of dates of travel, mode of transportation, requirement for accommodations, and car rental and provide CFMWS Travel Services with a written copy of approval authority to travel.

5.2.4 CFMWS Travel Services will initiate request based on travellers requirements and provide proposed itinerary to traveller via TravelXpert software.

5.2.5 Traveller to have supervisor/manager approve TravelXpert travel request. Approval authority is based on Chief of Defence Staff Delegation of Authorities for Financial Administration of Non-Public Property and is attached as Appendix E. Note that to assist in administering their NPP responsibilities, Base, Wing and Small Unit Commanders may delegate their authority in writing, with an information copy to the Finance Division.

5.2.6 Where the use of a rental vehicle is less costly than Private Motor Vehicle (PMC), the rental vehicle is to be used or the traveller will be required to sign a waiver limiting expenses to the rental vehicle equivalent. See Appendix F for sample waiver.

5.2.7 Inform CFMWS Travel Services Supervisor to finalize travel request including book mode of transportation, request car rental as required, and book lodgings as required based on approved TravelXpert travel request.

5.2.8 If there are any changes to be made prior to departure of travel duty, inform CFMWS Travel Services Supervisor immediately


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5.2.9 Travel as per itinerary and utilize Individual Travel Card for travel expenditures.

5.2.10 If during the travel period, the traveller must amend travel requirements (eg change flights or lodgings) during regular business hours 0800 hr to 1600 hr EST, then request CFMWS Travel Services to amend changes. If changes are required after regular business hours, then the traveller must call AMEX to amend travel. (Please note, AMEX after hours services are for emergency only.) Changes can be made by CFMWS Travel Services (business hours) or AMEX (after hours) up to two hours prior to departure time. Within two hours, changes must be made directly with the airline. Not all hotel arrangements are made with AMEX. If after hours, please call the hotel directly in order not to be charged a no show fee. If the traveller leaves the hotel accommodations prior to the original date of departure, ensure to check out. Car rentals are not always made with AMEX, please contact the car rental directly if changes/cancellations need to be made after hours. Upon return, traveller will inform CFMWS Travel Services of any changes made by the traveller.

5.2.11 Upon return to work, complete TravelXpert travel claim on a timely basis. As per this Directive:

(a) a meal allowance shall not be paid to a traveller with respect to a meal that is provided free of charge;

(b) the determining factor in renting a vehicle is economic. If a rental vehicle is less expensive than Private Motor Vehicle (PMC) mileage costs or the total of estimated taxi expenses, a rental vehicle must be used. If however, a PMC is used instead, the individual will only be reimbursed up to the cost of a rental vehicle (eg vehicle rental, taxes, gas). In this instance, the traveller should maintain a record of gas purchased for NPP travel; and

(c) if a travel advance is required, it will be recovered from the individuals pay 21 days from the date of return of the NPP business travel if the travel expense claim has not been submitted for approval and payment.

5.2.12 Send completed TravelXpert travel claim to supervisor/manager for approval as per Delegation of Authority. Travel claim is to include a copy of the pre-travel document (5.25).

5.2.13 Once approved by supervisor/manager forward approved TravelXpert travel claim (paper copy) to local NPP Accounting Office for payment.

5.2.14 Traveller to receive electronic payment based on approved TravelXpert Travel claim.

5.2.15 Upon receipt of Individual Travel Card invoice, review invoice and remit payment promptly.

5.2.16 Sample travel waiver for private motor vehicle use rather than rental vehicle is as shown at Appendix F


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5.3 Approving Authority Checklist

5.3.1 Approval authorities are as per Chief of Defence Staff Delegation of Authorities for Financial Administration of Non-Public Property. The Delegation of Authority tables are attached for information as Appendix E. For the purpose of business travel, approving authorities shall only make commitments or other arrangements which will result in an expenditure of Non-Public Funds (NPF) in circumstances where there is an approved travel requirement and a sufficient unencumbered balance available to discharge any financial obligations resulting from that commitment or other arrangement, in an approved budget for which the approving authority is responsible.

5.3.2 NPP Business travel will be authorized in advance in writing to ensure all travel arrangements are in compliance with the provisions of the NPP Travel Directive. The employer has the responsibility to authorize and determine when business travel is necessary, and to ensure that all travel arrangements are consistent with the provisions of the NPP Travel Directive. Following consultation between the approving authority and the traveller, the determination of travel arrangements shall best accommodate the traveller’s needs and interests and the employer’s operational requirements. For approving authorities that are co-located with traveller, approving authority must initial costs. For approving authorities that are not co-located with traveller, traveller to electronically send TravelXpert travel claim via e-mail to approving authority who will review and then return back via e-mail approving travel claim.

5.3.3 Approving authority must ensure that:

(a) NPP business travel is required;

(b) the mode of transportation is the most economical mode. Where the use of a rental vehicle is less costly than Private Motor Vehicle (PMC), the rental vehicle is to be used or the traveller will be required to sign a waiver limiting expenses to the rental vehicle equivalent (vehicle rental, taxes, gas);

(c) for accommodations and car rental, they are as per approved Government of Canada (Public Works and Government Services Canada) Accommodation and Car Rental Directory located at http://rehelv-acrd.tpsgc-pwgsc.gc.ca/index-eng.aspx;

(d) If employee does not have an Individual Travel Card and is required to travel occasionally on NPP travel, then request employee to apply for an Individual Travel Card as per A-FN-105-001/AG-001 Chapter 12. If an individual has applied for Individual Travel Card, however, it has yet to be issued, then individual may request a travel advance. If an individual cannot apply for Individual Travel Card due to financial restrictions, approving authority may approve travel advance;

(e) contractor’s and volunteers do not request travel advance since they are not entitled to a travel advance; and

(f) approving authorities will approve travel request form in advance of booking.


21 March 2017 46

5.3.4 Upon return from NPP business travel, the traveller completes TravelXpert travel claim in a timely manner. If the employee received a travel advance prior to departure on NPP business travel, the travel claim will be recovered from the employee’s pay 21 days after return from the NPP business travel if the travel expense claim has not been submitted for approval and payment.

5.3.5 The approving authority to review to ensure TravelXpert travel claim is as per NPP Travel Directive. The approving authority will review TravelXpert travel claim to ensure travel was performed as per approved TravelXpert travel claim approved in paras 5.3.2 and 5.3.3 and the TravelXpert claim must include a copy of the authorized pre-travel document. For approving authorities that are co-located with the traveller, approving authority must initial costs. For approving authorities that are not co-located with the traveller, traveller to electronically send TravelXpert travel claim via e-mail to approving authority who will review and then return back via e-mail approving travel claim. A copy of the initial approval for travel must be accompanied with the completed TravelXpert travel claim.

5.3.6 If any changes were made to the travel itinerary (during the NPP business travel) after approval from approving authorities, that the changes made are both reasonable and as per NPP Travel Directive. For example, if the NPP business trip accommodations were actually for two days rather than the reservation for three days that the traveller checked-out of the accommodations. If the traveller does not check-out upon departure from the accommodation, then the individual will be charged for three days. The employer will not reimburse the individual for the third day of accommodations.

5.3.7 Once the approving authorities has reviewed the TravelXpert travel claim it is to be approved and returned to the traveller who will then request process of payment by the local NPP accounting office.

Documents

NPP Travel Directive English 21MAR2017 - CFMWS · 2019-06-25 · NPP Travel Directive 21 March 2017 6 (d) all money and property derived from, purchased out of the proceeds of the