Research Security in International Travel

While travel to most countries does not pose export‑control concerns, tighter U.S. government restrictions apply when visiting sanctioned nations or those subject to trade controls. Travel to sanctioned countries—such as Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Sudan, Syria, and Venezuela—requires advance planning and coordination to ensure compliance. Countries of concern, including China and Russia, also require additional preparation.

General Best Practices for Any International Travel

Regardless of destination, travelers should take steps to protect personal information, research data, and university‑owned equipment. The following practices help reduce risk and support compliance:

Travel with minimal data. Bring only the files, devices, and information you truly need.
Use university‑issued or “clean” devices when possible to limit exposure of sensitive information.
Keep devices with you at all times—never leave laptops or phones unattended in hotel rooms, conference spaces, or transit areas.
Use secure connections. Avoid public Wi‑Fi; use VPN access when connecting to university systems.
Update software and enable security features (passwords, encryption, multi‑factor authentication) before departure.
Be cautious with unknown USB drives, chargers, or shared computers, which may introduce malware.
Know the data you carry. Some research materials, software, and equipment may be export‑controlled even when traveling to non‑sanctioned countries.
Report lost or stolen devices immediately to your department and IT security.

These practices apply to all international travel and help safeguard both personal and institutional information.

See also: ✔️ Travel Checklist: Best Practices Designed for all international travelers. Focuses on cybersecurity and other considerations for protecting research data, intellectual property, and personal information.

Key Considerations for Travel to Sanctioned Countries or Countries of Concern

Travel to China

Keep all electronic devices (phones, tablets, laptops) in your personal possession at all times.
Be aware that Chinese Customs may inspect your electronics.
Use a VPN rather than public Wi‑Fi, hotspots, or cellular data.
Do not bring unpublished research, confidential data, or personal information. Assume that anything on your device may be copied upon entry.
After returning, scan all devices for malware or viruses; it is common for devices to be compromised.

See also: ⚠️ High Risk Travel Checklist - Designed for high-risk international travel. Focuses on cybersecurity and operational considerations for protecting research data, intellectual property, devices, and security credentials.

Travel to Comprehensively Sanctioned Countries

Countries such as Cuba, Iran, Syria, Sudan, and North Korea require an export license for travel involving research equipment, data, or providing access to controlled items—even to citizens of these countries.

See also: Additional guidance for travel to Cuba available through the U.S. Department of State.

🔐 DUO Two-Factor Authentication

NDSU requires DUO two‑factor authentication for secure login. DUO is considered export‑controlled technology, and its use in certain countries requires special handling.

If traveling to China or Iran, contact the Export Control Office before departure.

Registering Items and Equipment

It is strongly recommended that you document or register any equipment you plan to take abroad.

Register items with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to verify they were in your possession before departure.
Registered items may return to the U.S. duty‑free.
The Export Controls Office can assist with completing CBP Form 4455 (Certificate of Registration) and can provide a Tools of the Trade letter for items such as laptops.

U.S. Department of State Resources

The Department of State provides travel advisories and country‑specific information.
Register your trip with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive safety updates and allow U.S. embassies to contact you in an emergency.
For information about U.S. embassies and consulates, visit the US Embassy website.

Questions?

Contact Sharon May, Export Controls, Sharon.May@ndsu.edu, (701)231-6455, or Kristy Shirley, Research Integrity, Security and Compliance, Kristy.Shirley@ndsu.edu, (701)231-8995.