International

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Covid-19 Travel Country Entry Assistance

  • Entry testing requirements

  • Testing types and timing

  • Proof of vaccination requirements

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International Travel FAQ

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Travelers should first check Concur for lodging arrangements. If no suitable options are available, travelers may book with a lodging establishment of their choosing so long as the rate is below the rate maximum for the location. Acceptable lodging includes: hotels, hostels and Airbnb. In-kind lodging is allowable, but no expenses may be submitted for reimbursement if this lodging method is chosen. 

Air travel must be booked with the designated agency. International flights in excess of 8 hours may book Premium Economy seats.

Exception: If the traveler is purchasing the airfare while in travel status, outside of the United States, to a destination other than the United States, the airfare may be purchased directly with the air carrier. Third party sites (such as Expedia) are still non-reimbursable. 

All international faculty/staff travelers are strongly encouraged to register for CISI insurance. Students are required to register for this insurance.  Contact your risk management or international education office for registration instructions. 

Other travel insurances are not required, recommended or reimbursable. 

Car Rental Insurance:

    1. UW Risk Management recommends purchasing insurance with all international rentals.

Special Considerations for International Travel can be found in the Miscellaneous Travel Expenses Policy. Receipts are required regardless of cost for the below items.

Reimbursable costs associated with Foreign/International travel:

  • Cost of testing required for travel (i.e. COVID testing)
  • Travel visas
  • required inoculations/vaccinations
  • foreign transaction fees incurred on corporate cards
  • business communications, including international calling plans when accompanied by business justification (individual phone calls are part of the M&IE per diem allowance)

Visa/Passport Services

For expedited processing, we have partnered with CIBT Visas, the largest travel visa and passport company in the world. University of Wisconsin students, faculty and administrators are entitled to significantly reduced CIBT processing fees. CIBT’s Customer Care Center is available toll free at 800-577-2428 Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. Eastern Time.

The CIBT dedicated portal for the University of Wisconsin can be found at: cibtvisas.com/wisconsin

The account code is 29249, please reference this number if contacting CIBT via phone.

 

U.S. Department of State RSS Feed

As a first step in planning any trip abroad, check the Travel Advisories for your intended destination.

  1. Bahrain - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

    27 February 2026 | 6:00 pm

    Updated to reflect authorized departure of non-emergency U.S. government personnel  and their family members and to change the Travel Advisory Level to Level 3: Reconsider Travel due to safety risks. 

    Reconsider Travel to Bahrain due to terrorism and armed conflict. 

    On February 28, 2026, the Department of State authorized non-emergency U.S. government employees and their family members to leave Bahrain due to safety risks. 

    Country Summary: Following the onset of hostilities between the United States and Iran on February 28, there has been an ongoing threat of drone and missile attacks from Iran and significant disruptions to commercial flights. 

    Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Bahrain. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning. Targets may include tourist sites, transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, and religious sites as well as government and military facilities. 

    Read the country information page  for additional information on travel to Bahrain.

    If you decide to travel to Bahrain:

    • Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
    • Stay alert in locations frequented by tourists/Westerners.
    • Develop a communication plan with family, your employer, or host organization. Plan together how and when you'll confirm you are safe (text or call).
    • Be aware of your surroundings.
    • Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and X.
    • Review the Country Security Report  for Bahrain.
    • Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
    • Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
    • Please be sure to visit our website for Crisis and Disaster Abroad. 

  1. Malawi - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

    24 February 2026 | 6:00 pm

    There was no change to the advisory level or risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated.

    Exercise increased caution to Malawi due to crime and unrest.

    Advisory summary

    Crime

    Violent crime such as theft, burglary, armed robbery, and assault is common. The capabilities of the Malawi Police Service are growing, but its resources and ability to deter and investigate crimes are limited. They also struggle to assist victims and apprehend criminals.

    Unrest

    Demonstrations may occur more often because of political issues and events like elections. Tear gas is often used at these protests, and roads might be blocked.

    If you decide to travel to Malawi:

    • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
    • Review the Country Security Report for Malawi.
    • Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Malawi.
    • Whether you’re a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel Checklist.
    • We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.
    • Review our information on Crime Abroad and for Victims of Crime.
    • Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
    • Have a plan to leave in an emergency that does not depend on U.S. government help. Review our information on Crisis and Evacuations.
    • Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
    • Check local media for breaking events. Be prepared to adjust your plans.
    • Keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible.

  1. Guinea - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

    24 February 2026 | 6:00 pm

    There were no changes to the advisory level or indicators. The advisory summary was updated.

    Exercise increased caution in Guinea due to crime, unrest, and inadequate health infrastructure.

    Advisory summary

    Restrictions on U.S. Government Personnel Movement
    U.S. government employees working in Guinea are prohibited from traveling between cities at night due to safety risks.

    Crime
    Crimes of opportunity are common in Guinea, especially in Conakry. Typical incidents include pickpocketing, purse snatching, theft from vehicles, assaults, and residential burglaries. Travelers should be especially alert in crowded areas, such as markets.

    Unrest
    Demonstrations and protests have occurred without warning in Guinea and sometimes result in violence. These events can develop around political issues, large events, or holidays. Security forces may use tear gas and gunfire to disperse crowds. Demonstrations may disrupt transportation and essential services.

    Health
    Guinea’s health infrastructure is limited. Access to necessary healthcare may not be available. Health services, hygiene, and quality control do not meet U.S. standards of care. Local drinking water is unsafe. Pharmacies are not well regulated, and locally available medications may be unsafe.

    If you decide to travel to Guinea:

    • Review our information on Crime Abroad and for Victims of Crime.
    • Do not display signs of wealth, like expensive watches, jewelry, or phones.
    • Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
    • Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.
    • Exercise caution when walking or driving at night.
    • Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
    • Stay alert when visiting banks or ATMs.
    • Keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
    • Ask permission prior to taking pictures of government buildings.
    • Check with your doctor about required vaccines and shots for high-risk exposure before you go to Guinea. Review the Health section in the Travel Guidance for Guinea.
    • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate.  Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
    • Review the Country Security Report for Guinea.
    • Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Guinea.
    • Whether you’re a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel Checklist.
    • We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.

CISI Insurance

  • All students must register for CISI insurance prior to any university-sponsored international travel.
  • UW Madison and UW Stout students and employees must register for CISI insurance prior to beginning an international trip.
  • It is recommended to contact your campus International Education Office or Risk Management Office to enroll in CISI insurance.

UW International Resources

External Resources