International Travel

The Office of Export and Security Compliance can assist with export and sanction determinations related to your international travel. Federal export and sanctions regulations prohibit the unlicensed export of specific commodities, software, technology, and payments to or from certain countries, entities, and individuals for reasons of national security, foreign policy, or protection of trade. Texas Tech personnel are required to comply with U.S. export and sanctions regulations while traveling abroad with commodities, software, and technology. You will find helpful information below concerning international travel procedures and best practices to ensure compliance with these federal regulations.

Texas Tech uses an online software system from Visual Compliance to screen countries as well as people/institutions you plan to visit to ensure the country, or those parties are not restricted by the U.S. Government. This system provides the traveler with confidence in complying with U.S. export control regulations. The screening is part of an automated process that takes place when the travel is entered into the procurement process. 

International Travel Tips

It is important to remember that the items and information you carry on your person while traveling abroad are considered an export. Traveling with phones, tablets or laptops can mean increased risks to your privacy and data.

In addition, presentations and discussions must be limited to topics that are not related to controlled commodities, software, or technology unless that information is already published or otherwise already in the public domain. It is always recommended that you only travel with the basic information you require for your trip or presentation abroad. IT can provide a loaner device to ensure you are traveling with a clean device inlcuding only the basic, required information for your travel.

Travel to Embargoed Countries and High-Risk Countries

Devices may not be taken to a destination that is identified as an embargoed country or region by the U.S. government. Embargoed countries include Iran, Cuba, North Korea, and Syria. 

In addition, travel to certain countries may put the traveler or university at a higher risk. Depending on the risks associated with international travel, the Office of Export and Security Compliance will reach out to you with additional information and a defensive travel briefing specific to your destination. 

Before you Go

• Verify that your technology or information falls into one or more of the following categories prior to traveling
  • Research which qualifies as fundamental research
  • Published information
  • Publicly available software
  • Educational information
• Consult with your department or IT support staff to discuss what data you plan to generate or collect while traveling abroad. ITS recommends using devices specifically reserved for international travel. Contact IT for clean travel devices prior to your travel. Your college or department may have loaner devices.
• Update any software, including anti-virus protection, to make sure you are running the most secure version available.
• Review the timely information specific to your destination on the State Department Travel Advisory page. 
• Register with STEP – a free service to allow U.S. citizens/nationals traveling abroad to enroll with the local U.S. Embassy or Consulate.