International Travel Guidance

Before traveling internationally, review the U.S. Department of State Travel Advisories and consider enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). Travelers should also be aware of country-specific restrictions that may affect the transport of devices, software, technical information, or research materials.

Regardless of destination, travelers should take steps before departure to protect personal information, research data, and university-owned equipment. The following practices can help reduce security, privacy, and export control risks:

1. Travel with only what you need. Bring only the devices, documents, and information necessary for your trip.

2. Use university-issued devices whenever possible. University-issued devices are configured with institutional security controls and help reduce the risk of exposing sensitive information.

3. Maintain physical control of devices at all times. Never leave laptops, phones, tablets, storage devices, or bags unattended in hotel rooms, conference venues, vehicles, or transit areas.

4. Use secure internet connections. Avoid public Wi-Fi whenever possible. When accessing university systems or sensitive information, use the university's approved VPN service.

5. Update and secure devices before departure. Install software updates and verify that passwords, screen locks, encryption, and multi-factor authentication are enabled, as appropriate for your destination and devices.

6. Avoid using unknown devices and charging stations. Do not use unfamiliar USB drives, charging stations, or shared computers. These devices may contain malware or other malicious software designed to compromise your information.

7. Limit the data you take abroad. Do not travel with unpublished research data, proprietary information, controlled research materials, or other sensitive information unless there is a documented business need and appropriate approvals have been obtained.

8. Understand what you are taking overseas. Certain software, equipment, technical data, biological materials, research samples, and other items may be subject to U.S. export control regulations or foreign import requirements. Some items may require a license, permit, or prior review before travel.

9. Understand local customs and laws. Familiarize yourself with local customs, laws, conditions, and cultural expectations before arriving at your destination.

10. Protect important documents. Carry only the identification, credit cards, and travel documents necessary for your trip. Create a list of important document numbers and account contact information. Keep one copy in a secure location at home and a second copy separate from the originals while traveling.

11. Exercise caution when sharing research information. Before sharing unpublished research, technical data, software, source code, or other non-public information with foreign collaborators, conference attendees, or institutions abroad, consult Export Controls if you have questions regarding applicable regulatory requirements.

12. Contact the Export Control Office with questions about your destination, research activities, equipment, software, data, or materials you plan to take abroad. Export Controls can also assist with Temporary Import/Export documentation and "Tools of the Trade" letters when appropriate.

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