Information for Visitors
The University of Glasgow welcomes visitors from around the world and is committed to the principles of Trusted Research and responsible internationalisation. In line with this we have processes in place to help us protect our people, research, data, and infrastructure in line with UK legislation and government guidance.
This page outlines what visitors might expect when accessing University buildings, systems, or research environments, and how we manage research security risks in accordance with the National Protective Security Authority (NPSA) Trusted Research Evaluation Framework (TREF) and UK Export Control legislation.
The University follows the principles of the TREF which supports:
- International collaboration that is open, inclusive, and lawful
- Protection of sensitive research, intellectual property, and data
- Proportionate, risk-based decision-making
Access to University Buildings
Visitor access to University premises is managed to ensure safety, security, and the protection of research activities.
- Visitors have a responsibility to look after the University facilities whilst on campus and to give due consideration to physical security issues. In particular they must follow security procedures designed to protect University property and where issued, wear their visitors’ badge at all times. Visitors must follow instructions from Security Staff and from their host College, School or Service, particularly in emergency situations.
- Access is normally restricted to areas relevant to the purpose of the visit.
- Some areas, such as laboratories or specialist research facilities, may require additional approval or supervision.
Access to sensitive research environments may be limited where this is necessary to protect controlled technologies or confidential information. Further information can be found here
IT and Digital Access
Access to internal systems, research data, or collaboration platforms is granted only where necessary and approved.
Use of personal devices may be restricted in certain areas.
Visitors are expected to comply with the University’s IT Code of Conduct and applicable policies from People & Organisational Development. Some relevant policies include:
Visa and Immigration Status
Visitors are responsible for ensuring they hold the correct visa or immigration status for their planned activities in the UK.
- Permitted activities may vary depending on visa type.
- Some research activities may require specific immigration permissions. An example of this would be the ATAS scheme
- UK Gov ATAS Information
- UoG Visiting Academic Information
Export Control and Sensitive Research
Some research activities, equipment, software, or information are subject to UK Export Control legislation. This can include areas such as advanced technologies, dual-use items (civil and military applications) and controlled topics.
If export controls apply to your area of work, the University may need to assess whether a licence or additional controls are required before access can be granted.
https://www.gla.ac.uk/research/strategy/ourpolicies/exportcontrol/
These controls are a legal requirement.
Visitors from Higher Risk Jurisdictions
In line with the Trusted Research Evaluation Framework, the University takes a risk-based approach to managing international collaboration.
The UK Government openly publish sanctions guidance. Visitors affiliated with jurisdictions assessed as higher risk for research security which could include:
- Limits on access to specific facilities or information
- Enhanced supervision during visits
- Restrictions on data sharing or IT access
Such measures are designed to protect research integrity and comply with legal obligations, while supporting legitimate academic collaboration.
Your Responsibilities as a Visitor