International Travel
University-affiliated international travel during the pandemic requires careful preparation and flexibility to adjust plans as conditions change. As a first step, faculty, staff and students should review Northwestern’s COVID-19 Travel Guidelines for the latest university-wide advice and possible restrictions. Additional information on travel health, safety and security can be found on the Office of Global Safety and Security’s website, including:
- Resources, links and a checklist for planning international travel in light of COVID-19 Considerations; also, according to university guidelines, all travel during the pandemic for Northwestern purposes should be booked through a preferred provider.
- A list of benefits and exclusions provided by GeoBlue, Northwestern’s international medical assistance and health insurance carrier; faculty and staff traveling internationally for Northwestern purposes will be automatically covered by Northwestern's business traveler insurance plan, GeoBlue for Employees. Employees are strongly encouraged to complete a one-time registration to obtain access to overseas resources and expedite claims.
- Timely information in the event of emergencies abroad including the 911 equivalent for your destination documented by the U.S. Department of State.
- Advice on maintaining good health abroad including topics such as immunizations, traveling with medications, managing pre-existing conditions, routine care abroad, reimbursement for care, see Travel Health.
- Security information resources from Crisis24/Drum Cussac for to learn about safety risks, plus links to sign up for the U.S. DOS Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts from the nearest embassy or consulate regarding road closures, transportation strikes, civil unrest, and more.
- Guidance for faculty and staff leading or organizing student trips abroad including a faculty/staff checklist, information on mandatory pre-departure training and incident reporting.
For questions or concerns about international travel health, safety, or security, contact the staff of the OGSS.