score:3
So finally in my application I checked both boxes and indicated that I will use my credit card and that the company will reimburse the expenses. I recently got my visa so this approach seems to have worked out fine.
Upvote:3
This is the standard process for most of the trips sponsored by companies. You have to pay, either with a corporate credit card or a personal one. Company will reimburse based on expense claims. So, yes, your trip is sponsored by the company, even though you are paying at the moment.
Let me tell the rationale behind this. The country you are visiting just wants to know whether you are there on a legitimate purpose and will be going back at the end of the trip. For a business event with a reputed company, a certain level of legitimacy is already established. So, the immigration agents will allow you, even if your bank balance is not that great, as its sponsored by company.
Get a letter from your company saying that they are sponsoring the trip and attach it with the application.