Travel Security

Booking UCSF affiliated international travel

While not required, it is strongly recommended that UCSF faculty and staff book any UCSF affiliated international travel via Connexxus. In the event travel is booked outside of Connexxus, it is recommended you register your international travel with UCOP Travel Registration. 

Materials carried out of the United States

Export controls affect whether items can be taken out of the country and what documentation is required to accompany them. Be aware of how your destination and intended activities may be affected by export controls.

Before traveling, remember:

  • Everything that crosses the border is an export 
  • Export control applies to tangible items, software and technology (know-how) 
  • Material doesn’t have to be dangerous to be controlled 
  • Interactions or sharing of controlled information with certain international entities and persons are restricted 

Screen institutions for restricted parties

Before traveling, screen any institutions and individuals you’re visiting for Restricted Parties. Visual Compliance is the system utilized by UCSF to conduct such screenings. If an institution or individual is identified as a restricted party, contact UCSF Export Control.

Notify UCSF Export Control of planned travel to OFAC-sanctioned countries 

In general, travel to an Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) comprehensively-sanctioned country is prohibited. The most comprehensive sanctions involve Cuba, Iran, Russia, North Korea, Syria and specific regions of Ukraine (Crimea, Donetsk and Luhansk). For the most recent list of sanctions refer to OFAC's Sanctions Programs and Country Information.

Contact the UCSF Export Control Office ahead of any such planned foreign travel. 

Shipping research-related items

Materials and specialized equipment should be shipped in advance of travel instead of hand-carrying them. The documentation expectations for shipped goods are generally clear, increasing the likelihood your items will arrive on-time. Hand-carrying items increases the likelihood of enhanced inspection by customs officials both domestically and abroad, potentially disrupting travel.

NOTE: Do not take any of the following without first obtaining specific advice from UCSF Export Control Office as these items may require an export license: 

  • Data or information received under an obligation of confidentiality.
  • Computer software with restrictions on export to or access by foreign nationals.
  • Devices or equipment with restrictions on export to or access by foreign nationals.
  • Devices, systems, or software that was specifically designed or modified for military or space applications.

Prepare electronic devices 

Export-controlled material may not be taken out of the US. Before traveling, remove any export-controlled technical data from your laptop and cell phone. Review the UCOP IT Guidance associated with travel with electronic devices.

Note: US Customs officials are authorized to search or retain electronic devices, even without probable cause, to look for violation of export control regulations as well as other laws and regulations. Do cooperate fully with Customs and Border Protection. Give them your device password when asked. 

Understand what international activities fall under Export Control 

When traveling abroad, use caution before providing services or transferring technology, which may include: 

  • Accepting awards 
  • Being a keynote speaker 
  • Troubleshooting equipment 
  • Speaking at industry seminars 
  • Detailed responses to Q&A at conferences 
  • Teaching abroad 
  • Rendering nuclear assistance 
  • Training on equipment 

If you anticipate engaging in any of these activities, contact [email protected].