International Travel

All international travel requests are reviewed by the International Travel Committee. They serve as an advisory group to the UNK Chancellor, who has final approval for all international travel.

Travel to areas deemed high-risk by the U.S. Department of State require additional review (see below for details).

International Travel Committee

1. Pre-Travel Preparation

• Check Travel Advisories from the U.S. Department of State for your destination.
• Verify Passport & Visa Requirements well in advance.
• Download and enroll in Worldcue Mobile to receive alerts and help the U.S. Embassy contact you in an emergency.
• Sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive email updates from the local U.S. embassy or consulate. 

2. Health & Safety

• Pack a Travel Health Kit with prescriptions, first aid, and over-the-counter essentials.
• Understand Local Health Risks (e.g., food safety, water quality, disease outbreaks).
• Travel Insurance is provided by the NU System.

3. Security Awareness

• Avoid High-Risk Areas and follow local laws and customs.
• Use Trusted Transportation—avoid public transit in unfamiliar or high-risk areas.
• Keep Emergency Contacts handy, including the U.S. Embassy and university contacts.
• Secure Valuables and avoid displaying wealth or sensitive materials.

4. Technology & Data Security

• Use a Virtual Private Network when accessing university systems or sensitive data.
• Avoid Public Wi-Fi for confidential work.
• Travel with Clean Devices if possible—limit sensitive data on your laptop or phone.

5. Cultural Sensitivity & Representation

• Respect Local Customs and dress codes.
• Be a Positive Ambassador for the university—your conduct reflects on UNK.

6. Required Documentation

• Emergency Contact Form
• Please share with us a copy of Itinerary & lodging Info in case of an emergency

Executive Memorandum (EM) 25: Policy on Higher Risk University-Sponsored International Travel

Individuals and groups requesting travel approval to areas deemed high risk according to EM25 must do the following:

Write a travel request that includes:

• the academic or research objectives which can only be achieved through travel to the proposed location;
• the actions that will be taken to mitigate any safety, security, and/or health risks posed by the travel; and
• a University of Nebraska Informed Consent and Release of Liability Form signed by each participating member of the public acknowledging that you have been advised of the details of the Travel Advisory.

Submit this request via email to Dr. Chance Bell (bellc@unk.edu).

Additional Resources

• • Higher Risk University - Sponsored International Travel Faculty Staff Request
  • Higher Risk University - Sponsored International Travel Student Request

Student Travel Policy

University of Nebraska Travel

University Travel Insurance