blog posts

• Considering International Travel for Research: Resources and Guidance

  May 15, 2025 8:15 am by Linda Lee Drozt and Michelle Dube

  Dear Colleagues, 

  As the semester winds down, many people in the Illinois research community travel internationally to advance their research projects. There are university resources available to assist you as you navigate related regulations and prepare for your trip.  

  Please consider sharing these resources with anyone in your unit who may be traveling for research or has responsibility for arranging travel. 

  Follow university policies:  

  • University policy requires enrollment in university-approved international insurance for all university-related travel.  

  • As travel to some countries may require extra preparation and certification prior to traveling with IT, travelers should consult with the Export Compliance Officer, exportcontrols@illinois.edu. 

  • View more policies on the Safety Abroad website. 

  Assess your risk:  

  • Review the information on High-Risk Destinations. 

  • Be mindful that federal funding agencies closely analyze international activities and associations in certain countries. View risk matrices.  

  Refer to trusted resources: 

  • It is important to understand that information can change while you are outside of the country. Always consider the source of your information carefully. 

  • Research security regulations can be complex. If you have any concerns about potential risks related to your research travel, please reach out to Research Security at researchsecurity@illinois.edu.  

  • If you have questions about international insurance or high-risk destinations, the International Safety and Security office can provide guidance. You can reach them at safetyabroad@illinois.edu. 

  Sincerely, 

  Linda Lee Drozt 
  Director, Office of Research Security 

  Michelle Dube 
  Associate Director for International Safety and Security