Navigate Global Complexities

The Office of Global Support Services (GSS) collaborates with the Penn Community to navigate the complexities of international initiatives.

Business Activities

Find resources for making payments and banking abroad, export controls, visa requirements, and more.

Working Abroad

Hiring employees or engaging an independent contractor in another country? Read more here.

Travel Guidance

Register your trip, secure insurance coverage, and access 24/7 support while abroad.

Tax & Reporting

Get support with Schedule F and other international tax reporting initiatives.

At GSS, we share knowledge, streamline processes, and provide solutions that adapt to global landscapes. Dive deeper into each of these topics and reach out to our office with any questions.

Penn Travel Guidance to China

Preparing for business travel to China can raise many questions. We’ve created a resource specifically for Penn faculty and staff to address common questions and uncertainties.

Travel Advisories

Review important travel advisories to Heightened-Risk Regions, updated within the last six months.

International Agreements

Learn about the terms and definitions, key considerations, agreement development FAQs, and how to submit an international agreement to GSS.

Register Your Trip

All Penn-affiliated travel is required to be registered in MyTrips. Follow these steps to register an individual or group trip abroad.

Hiring & Employment Abroad

Read more about UPenn hiring and employment abroad options.

Pre-Departure Checklist

Thorough preparation is essential for safe and successful international travel. Global Support Services offers a range of pre-departure resources to help you feel informed, protected, and confident before you depart.

Latest Announcements

Impacting global Penn-affiliated travel and activities.

Travel Advisory: US Entry

May 15, 2025

Recent changes to U.S. travel and immigration policies may result in delays, increased inspection, or possible denial of entry. To help navigate these potential challenges, travelers should plan carefully and well in advance.

The following resources offer helpful guidance for entering or reentering the U.S.:

Penn travelers who are non-U.S. citizens may face additional scrutiny and are strongly encouraged to consult with ISSS before traveling abroad. Additional information on Navigating U.S. Ports of Entry & Secondary Inspection is available on the ISSS website. For specific questions, please contact the Global Support Service team.

Brazil Reinstates eVisa Requirement for Americans

April 10, 2025

Effective April 10, 2025, Brazil will reinstate its electronic visa (eVisa) requirement for passport holders from the United States, Canada, and Australia.

ETIAS Launch Delayed to Late 2026

February 28, 2025

U.S. citizens traveling to EU member countries will need to register with the European Travel Information and Authorization System.

UK Opens ETA Application

January 8, 2025

Non-visa-holding visitors to the UK will need an Electronic Travel Authorization. Applications for US Citizens open on November 27, 2024, and will be required for travel as of January 8, 2025.

Updates on Passport Processing

As more Americans are traveling internationally again, the U.S. passport processing times have changed several times in the last few months.

Contact GSS

Have questions or need support? Contact the Office of Global Support Services for your global needs.