International Travel: Before You Go

Registration through the Travel Registry is required for all University International Travel (Policy on International Travel, updated 07/01/2025).

Your registration not only ensures that you receive the essential support needed from Tufts in a personal or location-specific emergency, but it gives you access to numerous useful benefits as you prepare for departure and during your time abroad. 

• Emergency Support: By providing a local address, emergency contact and phone number, the university has more options for reaching you in the event of an emergency.
• Alerts and Emergency Message: You will receive alerts about current events that may affect your travel. 
• Secure Passport Data Storage: The Registry provides a secure option for you to store passport data in the event that you lose yours or require emergency evacuation to the U.S.

Register in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) with the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your location/country. 

• All travelers, including those without a U.S. passport, can subscribe to STEP Travel Messages and receive health and safety alerts.
• The U.S Embassy or Consulate will refer to STEP registrations for a list of U.S Citizens who may need support during a large scale emergency. Travelers from other countries should check the respective authority in their destination for similar emergency services.  

Technology and Export Control

• Need a laptop while traveling? TTS offers loaner laptops for faculty and staff traveling on university-related programs or business. Request a loaner laptop at least 10 business days before traveling. For higher risk travel to destinations with elevated cybersecurity concerns, utilizing the technology loaner program may be highly recommended or potentially required. Complete the request form or email TTS at it@tufts.edu for more information.
• Travelers transporting research instruments, tools, samples, raw materials, or prototypes and/or are traveling to destinations listed as countries of concern by Tufts Export Control will receive additional questions during the registration process. These travelers may be contacted by the Export Control office for additional guidance or requirements. For questions in advance of registration contact exportcontrols@tufts.edu.

Learn more about the medical and security risks in your destination

• Tufts' global assistance provider offers several resources for learning more about the health, safety, and security risks in your destination. Visit the Global Travel webpage for more information.
• For travel to high-risk locations, it is especially important to consult with Tufts' global assistance provider to request itinerary–specific advice, including recommended hotels and hotel features, transportation options, and advice for day-to-day activities. Submit a pre-trip itinerary review at least 10 days before departure.
• The U.S. Department of State publishes Travel Advisories for every country. Review the relevant travel advisory for your destination(s).
• The U.S. Department of State also publishes country information sheets and other international travel information at travel.state.gov.
• Center for Disease Control and Prevention publishes travel health information and tips, including vaccines, medications, trip preparation, etc. See also CDC Destination Guide and CDC Vaccination information.

Make a doctor’s appointment

• Make an appointment at a travel clinic at least 4 weeks prior to departure to ensure that you have all required (and recommended) vaccinations. The clinic staff can also advise you on risks in the location regarding your health profile, including allergies, on-going treatment, and the legal status of over the counter and prescription medications in the destination country. For example, something as common as Benadryl might not be legal.

Set up your support network

• Make copies of your most valuable travel documents and bring one set with you and leave one set with a trusted family member or friend.
• Include copies of your:
  • passport
  • visa(s)
  • major credit cards
  • insurance information
  • itinerary and contact information while abroad  
  • emergency contacts