04/07/2025
By Sharon-Anne Mapes

There have been new federal actions that may impact crossing borders for all individuals regardless of their nationality or immigration status. Additionally, there is continued public source reporting on impending travel restrictions.

All travelers should be mindful of international travel’s unique risks. While uncertainty persists around federal immigration actions and enforcement, and based upon an understanding of their risk profile, travelers should consider the following carefully before engaging in personal or non-essential travel:

  • All University-related international travel by faculty, students, and staff is required to be pre-approved and registered as per the University’s Travel Policy and the University’s Business and Travel Expense Policy. Per Board of Trustee Policy, this includes all international travel where the traveler brings University-owned devices or accesses University data. Further, all international travelers should consult with their Campus Travel Risk Review Committee, Research Security, and/or Export Control Office on any additional permissions or protocols when traveling with or accessing University-owned devices, data, or research materials. The protocols on using University-owned devices or accessing University data while on personal travel are similar to university-related travel. Travelers should likewise consult on their personal travel with the above committees and offices if applicable.
  • In general, all people arriving to the U.S. have basic rights at the ports of entry. However, all international travelers, including U.S. citizens, have diminished First and Fourth Amendment rights before admission into the U.S. All international travelers are subject to inspection by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) when arriving at both land and airports of entry. CBP will screen travelers to determine whether they are “admissible”.
  • CBP agents may ask travelers questions, including those related to the purpose of their travel and eligibility to enter the United States. CBP may collect biographic and biometric data, run records checks, and conduct warrantless searches of bags and electronic devices and otherwise attempt to determine whether someone should be admitted to the United States. In searching electronic devices, they may ask for access to social media accounts, including usernames and passwords, and can scrutinize and copy sensitive digital information. These searches do not generally violate the Fourth Amendment’s proscription against unreasonable search and seizures. If a traveler refuses to cooperate, CBP may delay their travel, seize their device, and further detain and question them. For non-U.S. citizens, CBP may also deny entry.
  • All non-U.S. citizens should carry with them documentation that corroborates their identity and immigration status at all times during travel and while present in the U.S. International visa sponsored students should review steps to take before any international travel on the ISSO Travel website and reach out to the ISSO if there are any questions. Legal permanent residents should carry with them their Green Card. Non-immigrants or people on temporary statuses should carry with them a photo ID, such as a valid passport or state issued ID, and immigration documents specific to their status.

For general information regarding travel please visit the UML Travel web page.