International Travel
Other Export Control & Security Considerations for International Travel
- Restricted & Banned Travel Destinations: University affiliated international travel to or through identified high-risk or sanctioned countries will require pre-approval from the University and may require a license from the Office of Foreign Asset Controls (OFAC). Be aware that a travel ban may be in effect for some destinations.
- Hand-Carrying Items Abroad: All items that are hand-carried or shipped abroad must be approved by ORSEC prior to leaving the country. See CU Boulder International Shipping and Hand-Carry Policy.
- Export Control Licenses: Some items may require an export license prior to international travel, which may range from weeks to over a year to obtain. Most commercial laptops/phones/devices do not require an export license to non-sanctioned countries.
- Remove Controlled Data & Unpublished Research Data from Devices: Remove any controlled technical data, controlled technology, or unpublished research data from your electronic devices. U.S. Customs and foreign customs agents may be authorized to search and retain electronic devices without probable cause.
- Remote Data Access: Accessing controlled technical data or technology remotely from a foreign country can also be an export violation. Notify ORSEC if remote access to controlled data or technology is needed while abroad.
- Encryption Awareness: Encryption is considered best practice for data security; however, some countries restrict the import of encrypted devices, and U.S. regulations prohibit the export of an encrypted device to embargoed countries. ORSEC recommends using a clean/loaner laptop from OIT when traveling abroad.
Tips for Attending or Presenting at International Conferences
- Be Selective When Sharing: Do not disclose controlled information in presentations, Q&A sessions, discussions or conversations. Providing any information about the design, development, engineering, manufacture, production, assembly, testing, repair, maintenance, modification, operation, demilitarization, destruction, processing, or use of defense articles is an export control violation.
- Stay Within the Realm of Published Material: Avoid presenting or discussing unpublished material, if possible.
- Portable Media Can Be Risky: Be cautious of any thumb/USB flash drives (or other portable media) you may receive at a conference. Malware can be introduced into your devices through portable media.
NSF SECURE International Travel Checklists
Designed for all international travelers. Focuses on cybersecurity and other considerations for protecting research data, intellectual property, and personal information.
Designed for high-risk international travelers. Focuses on cybersecurity and operational considerations for protecting research data, intellectual property, devices, and security credentials.
Provides additional context to the checklist content. Includes travel case studies and additional resources.
International Travel for Sponsored Projects
Many sponsors require pre-approval for international travel. Visit OCG's International Travel page for guidance.
Ensure all travel complies with the Fly America Act, which requires the use of U.S. carriers for air travel when possible.
Many sponsors have specific requirements governing what can and cannot be charged to an award when on travel.
CU International Travel Support
The CU System Risk Management Office offers resources to mitigate risk posed by international travel, including travel insurance and emergency contacts, are available to CU employees.
The CU System Procurement Service Center (PSC) has several resources and policies regarding University affiliated travel. Also see PSC International Travel page.
The CU Boulder Office of Global Affairs provides travel resources for students interested in traveling abroad. See the Education Abroad Safety & Security page for specific resources on security.
U.S. Department of State Travel Resources
The U.S. Department of State reports risks and recommended precautions for U.S. citizens in a foreign destination.
The U.S. Department of State can assist in the event of an emergency abroad (lost passport, victim of crime, arrest or detention, natural disaster, terrorism).
Safety tips for students studying abroad.
Tips and information for U.S. citizens working outside of the United States. Ensure you have the appropriate visa and permissions to work. Protect yourself and your business information when working abroad.
Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a free service to allow U.S. citizens and nationals to enroll their trip abroad so the Department of State can accurately and quickly contact them in case of emergency.
This U.S. Department of State guide makes it easy for you to find important safety travel basics as you plan for your trip.
Other International Travel Resources
ORSEC has prepared a list of Dos & Don'ts for International Travel.
If you are a U.S. citizen traveling abroad, get the information you need to smoothly navigate your return back into the U.S. If you are a visitor to the U.S. coming to work, study, conduct business or immigrate, get the Information you need to smoothly navigate the process and procedures to enter the U.S.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) outlines best practices for academics traveling overseas.