MSU International Travel and Compliance Overview 

Montana State University (MSU) recognizes and supports the international expertise of its faculty, the essential importance of conducting research abroad, and the importance of providing its graduates with global and multicultural understanding. Review the comprehensive International Travel Policy here.

Steps for MSU International Travel

MSU faculty and staff should obtain financial approval from their department through Chrome River.

1. Register travel in the MSU International Travel Registry.

  • Any University international travel proposed by a University Traveler to any country for which a U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory (Level 3 or 4) or a Center for Disease Control and Prevention Warning Level 3 is in effect must be reviewed and approved in advance of travel by the Campus International Travel Safety Review Committee.

2. Obtain GeoBlue International Traveler's Insurance.

  • Geo Blue insurance is mandatory for all MSU-sponsored travel and MSU-affiliated travel, and must be purchased prior to departure.

  • Insurance purchases, including GeoBlue, are not allowed on the P-Card. If you plan to charge GeoBlue to your P-Card, you need to request a one-time purchase exemption by emailing [email protected] to enable a GeoBlue purchase. You may also choose to purchase GeoBlue on your own and reimburse it through Chrome River.

  • Questions about GeoBlue? Please contact Jessie Hodgson, [email protected].

Additional Resources

MSU Study Abroad

The world is your classroom: Go somewhere! Over 250 programs in more than 60 countries around the world. MSU Study Abroad provides resources, advising, and support to students who wish to enhance their college education by studying abroad. Learn more about Study Abroad at drop-in advising hours. Questions? Contact [email protected].

Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)

The University recommends that all international travelers who are U.S. citizens register their planned travel with the U.S. Department of State's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a free service provided by the U.S. Government to U.S. citizens who are traveling to, or living in, a foreign country.  STEP allows you to enter information about your upcoming trip abroad so that the Department of State can better assist you in an emergency. STEP also allows Americans residing abroad to get routine information from the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.

MSU Emergency Response Manual for International Programs

The MSU Emergency Response Manual for International Programs is a detailed handbook to help familiarize travelers with MSU emergency procedures and risk prevention while abroad. It covers defining an emergency, decision making in a crisis, emergency evacuations, pre-departure procedures, faculty and student preparation, and management of specific risk areas. It is to be considered a guide and a reminder that communication is crucial in the event of an emergency.

Cancellation & Interruption for Any Reason Insurance (CFAR/IFAR)

Travelers may consider purchasing Cancellation & Interruption for Any Reason (CFAR/IFAR) insurance for domestic and international trips. While this is not a requirement, CFAR/IFAR insurance can help protect your investment in your trip in the event the trip is canceled before departing or interrupted during a trip for any reason and, depending on the policy, it could also extend to reasons related to COVID-19.