Export control (EC) regulations are group of federal regulations designed to advance the national security, foreign policy, and economic interests of the United States. These regulations have been around since the early 20th century. In 1949 the Export Control Act (implemented by the US Department of Commerce Export Administration Regulations – EAR) was enacted, and in 1976, the Arms Export Control Act became law (implemented by the US Department of State International Traffic in Arms Regulations – ITAR). Since 9/11, scrutiny of compliance with export control regulations has increased significantly, including it's application to research and other activities at universitites.
When should I contact ORAA about export control?
- I intend to hire a foreign national employee ( H-1B, H-1B1, O-1A, or L-1 nonimmigrant work visa)
- I need to ship items internationally.
- I will be traveling outside of the United States.
- I want or plan to have foreign national(s) participate in the research.
- I want to collaborate with a researcher or institution from outside the United States.
- My project has contractual restrictions on publishing, proprietary information, or foreign national participation.
- I will be receiving nuclear, military or space related information, technical data, equipment or software.
- I will be researching subjects related to nuclear, chemical, biological, weaponry, missiles, unmanned vehicles, or encryption technologies.
Quick Links
- Export Control Basics
- Why is it important?
- What does "use" mean for equipment?
- Licenses and Exclusions
- What kinds of activities raise EC concerns?
- What are Deemed Exports?
Export Control Tools
- Export Control Decision Flowchart
- Definitions
- Cayuse Export Control Attachment
- Cayuse Hazardous Materials Attachment
- Form for Taking/Shipping Equipment out of US
- Powerpoint Training for PIs
Developed by UMBC, this is a nice introduction to Export Control. Used with permission.
Questions regarding export control should be directed to the director of UMCES Office of Research Administration and Advancement (ORAA). Export Control, like tax law, requires expertise with a multitude of rules and regulations. ORAA works closely with the Export Compliance Office at the University of Maryland College Park.