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Elevated-Risk Destinations
Part of the International Travel Authorization Form review process includes an assessment of the elevated risk profile of any travel destinations identified on the High Hazard/War Risk Countries List or locations with a Level 3 or 4 Travel Advisory from the US Department of State. This includes travel to regions that have a higher risk than the overall country rating (e.g. if you are traveling to a state or region that is rated Level 3, this will require additional review even if the country’s overall rating is Level 2). This level of review and approval for elevated-risk destinations is required by CSU-systemwide policy.
If any elevated-risk destinations are part of your travel, this will trigger additional review and approval or denial from multiple parties, including a combination of the following depending on the level of risk identified with the destination:
- Campus Risk Team
- President’s Office
- Chancellor’s Office, and
- Foreign Travel Insurance Underwriters
Travel to a Level 3 country or region/state requires President’s Office approval. Travel to a Level 4 country is often prohibited except in very specific circumstances. If approved, it requires both President’s Office and Chancellor’s Office approval on top of regular process, includes higher insurance premiums and requires significant risk mitigation planning (and time).
To expedite the review process for a trip to elevated-risk destinations, please complete and submit an Elevated-Risk International Travel Justification document as an attachment with your International Travel Authorization Form. This additional form will provide the context, security details, and justification for travel to high hazard destinations required in order to thoroughly review the trip. If the Risk Management team has any questions or requires additional information, they will reach out as part of the review process.
Some specific risk mitigations and changes to the trip may be required in order to approve some trips to high hazard or war risk countries, and some proposed trips may be assessed as too big a risk regardless of potential mitigation measures. Risk managers assess potential risk and mitigation factors tailored to each trip, as two trips to the same location may have completely different risk profiles. SPF is dedicated to exploring all possibilities to support research travel and will work with you to exhaust all options before a potential ‘no.’
Technology access and online services in China can be limited, and some platforms such as Google and WhatsApp may not be accessible on local networks. Traveling with sensitive or export controlled data carries additional risk. Plan accordingly before departure.
- Travel with devices free of proprietary, confidential, or export-controlled data.
- Consider using a loaner device available through ITS
- Set up required authentication tools before traveling
- Review local laws and restrictions around technology, software, and services prior to your travel. Certain VPNs, websites, and apps may be restricted, blocked or even carry legal consequences if used. Connect with ITS to discuss options and receive recommendations for digital security and safety, which is important for all international travel but of the utmost importance when considering travel to China.
Faculty and staff conducting research or carrying data internationally should take additional precautions, particularly when traveling to China or other countries with higher data security and export control risks. Consult with Risk Management and IT to ensure data is adequately protected. Avoid sharing unpublished research or restricted information while in China and complete any required export controls documentation in advance.
Review the Export Controls page and reach out to risk-management@humboldt.edu for additional guidance and support.