Checklist for Travelers

If you’re a student, or you’re leading a program or trip involving students, you must receive approval if traveling to a high-risk destination. Visit our High-Risk Travel page to learn more.

Certain countries and regions are subject to US economic and trade sanctions by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) of the US Department of the Treasury. For the most up-to-date list, visit the OFAC Sanctions Programs and Country Information page.

Any proposed transaction, contract, collaboration, purchase, or other transaction in, or involving, a sanctioned country or entity (whether governmental, non-profit, or commercial), or individual based in a sanctioned country, should be discussed in advance with the University’s Office of Research and Project Administration (ORPA).

If you’re conducting research during your time abroad, visit our International Research Operations page for specific guidelines.

International travelers with laptops, phones, and other mobile devices risk their information security through possible loss, seizure, or tampering. To reduce the risks, read University IT’s Information Security Guidelines for International Travel.

Visit our Emergency Resources While Abroad page to familiarize yourself with emergency protocols. The Center for Education Abroad as also compiled additional safety recommendations that you can review.

If you’re required to show proof of evacuation and repatriation coverage to obtain a visa or other travel document, request a letter online. In order to receive this letter, your travel must be considered University-sponsored or supported. Visit our Travel Insurance page for more information.

International students and scholars should always consult advisors at the Center for Education Abroad and International Services Office before leaving the US to ensure you can return without incident. If you have a single-entry US visa and you plan to return to the US, you’ll need to obtain a new US visa while you’re abroad.

If your Visa application requires proof of financial aid/scholarships, contact the Financial Aid Office. You can also explore additional visa and passport resources on the Center for Education Abroad website.

Review guidance regarding visa and work permits specifically for researchers or those working internationally.

If you are enrolled in the University Student Health Insurance Plan, print your ID card at the Aetna Student Health website.

If you are on your own, or on your parents’, health insurance:

• Obtain a copy of your health insurance ID card.
• Check with your insurance provider to see what they cover internationally. Some topics to ask your provider about include:
  • Medical emergency coverage
  • Obtaining prescription drugs overseas
  • Locating health service providers abroad
  • How to obtain a copy of your health insurance card

If you wish to enroll in the University Student Health Insurance Plan, email the UHS Insurance Advisor at insurance@uhs.rochester.edu for assistance with the enrollment process. If you make changes to your health insurance, be aware of the start and end dates to avoid any gap in coverage.

If you are currently enrolled in a University health plan, review these resources:

• BCBS Global Core: Search providers, get news alerts and access emergency information and medical translations.
  • Note: When you initially visit the website, you must enter the first three letters of your insurance ID. Those letters are: “URL.” For all Rochester health plan members, these letters are the same.
• Print your BCBS Global Core brochure (PDF) and carry it while abroad.
• Download the BCBS Global Core mobile app, available for iPhone and Android.

If you are not currently enrolled in a University health plan, check with your insurance provider to see what they cover internationally. Some topics to ask your provider about include:

• Medical emergency coverage
• Obtaining prescription drugs overseas
• Locating health service providers abroad
• How to obtain a copy of your health insurance card

For a fee,  Passport Health partners with the University to offer comprehensive travel services to individuals planning an overseas trip. Its healthcare professionals are travel experts who can help you plan a safe, worry-free trip. To learn more or to schedule an appointment, call (585) 275-8884 or contact Passport Health online.

• University Health Service (UHS): Students planning to travel outside the United States should see their University Health Service primary care provider to review health risks, update immunizations, and plan for healthcare while abroad. Before coming for your visit, check the CDC’s travelers’ health page for information about immunizations required for the country to which you are traveling.
• University Counseling Center (UCC): The University Counseling Center provides a comprehensive initial assessment and an individualized treatment plan to members of the University community who pay the mandatory health fee. Before departing for international travel, students are encouraged to visit their counselor to discuss strategies to reduce culture shock and manage mental health needs abroad.
• Healthcare guide: Review the Center for Education Abroad’s healthcare guide for additional resources and support.
• Confidential form to share with trip leaders: Consider downloading and filling out this confidential health form and sharing it with your trip leaver or program director. This will help them accommodate your needs.