Export Control & International Travel

Sponsored Programs Foundation (SPF) complies with U.S. export control laws that regulate the transfer of certain equipment, software, technology, and information. These laws protect national security and govern how research and materials are shared internationally.

Important! Always consult SPF and its Export Control Policy before exporting or sharing controlled items or information internationally.

What Is Export Control?

Export control laws apply to:

• Physical shipments outside the United States
• Carrying items (e.g., laptops, equipment) abroad
• Sharing technical data or software with foreign nationals
• Providing services or training to international collaborators

Why Export Control Matters

Failure to comply may result in:

• Significant fines
• Loss of research privileges
• Criminal penalties, including imprisonment

Export control regulations can impact:

• International travel
• Research collaborations
• Hosting international visitors
• Use of specialized equipment or software

When to Contact SPF

Contact SPF before proceeding if your project involves:

• Shipping equipment, materials, or technology outside the U.S.
• Traveling internationally with research-related items
• Sharing restricted or proprietary data
• Working with:
  • Foreign nationals
  • International partners
  • Sanctioned or embargoed countries/entities

Common Export Control Scenarios

International Travel

Before traveling abroad:

• Review what technology or data you are carrying
• Confirm with SPF whether licenses are required
• Check current restrictions, as these may change frequently!

General Guidance

• Standard laptops and common software are usually allowed
• Specialized or encrypted software may require approval

Shipping Items Internationally

• Do not ship items outside the U.S. without prior review
• Some exports require a government license
• Licensing depends on:
  • Item type
  • Destination country
  • End use

Sharing Information

Export controls apply to:

• Emails, files, and data transfers
• Lab access or technical discussions
• Training or assistance provided to foreign nationals

Types of Controlled Items

Defense-Related (ITAR)

• Military or defense-related items
• Includes:
  • Equipment
  • Technical data
  • Defense services

Dual-Use Items (EAR)

• Items with both civilian and military applications
• Examples:
  • Electronics
  • Chemicals
  • Engineering materials

Sanctions (OFAC)

• Restrictions on:
  • Certain countries
  • Individuals or organizations
• Applies to financial transactions and collaborations

Key Compliance Principles

Before You Act

• ✔ Confirm if export controls apply
• ✔ Verify destination and end use
• ✔ Determine if a license is required

If Multiple Projects Benefit

• Document how materials or data are used
• Ensure compliance across all activities

Quick Compliance Checklist

✔ Are you shipping anything internationally?

✔ Are you traveling with research equipment or data?

✔ Are you sharing technical information with foreign nationals?

✔ Are you working with restricted countries or entities?

If you answered yes to any of the above, Contact SPF before proceeding

Contact Information:

• Phone: (707) 826-4189
• Email: hsuf@humboldt.edu
• Office: Student & Business Services, Room 427