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Safety Abroad

Safety Abroad

Prepare for a safe and informed international experience.
Person wearing a hat and red backpack standing near stone ruins, with two large pyramids in the background under a clear blue sky.

What to do in an emergency

In the event of an emergency International SOS (iSOS) should be your first point of contact for support.

Download the ISOS Assistance App (external link) 

As an International SOS member (external link) , you will have access to a worldwide network of 27 assistance centers staffed by doctors, nurses, coordinators and security professionals who will provide you with local expertise and emergency assistance. You can reach out to  (PDF file) ISOS 24/7 via phone or the ISOS Assistance App (external link) .

Emergency Incident Check-ins:
If a significant travel security incident, health threat or natural disaster has affected your region, TMU Global will reach out via the International SOS Assistance App, as well as by email, to check on your safety status. 

We will reach out to you using the email you provided when you registered for iSOS. It is important that you regularly check this email address while traveling abroad to ensure you are keeping up-to-date on ISOS communications.

Safety abroad requirements for students

International activity risk management

The University requires all students participating in university-sanctioned activities abroad to complete the International Activity Risk Management (IARM) requirements each time they travel.

The IARM process includes pre-departure training and registering your trip with the university so that we can offer support and emergency assistance while you are abroad.

What is a university-sanctioned activity?

  • An activity that is funded in part or in whole by the university
  • An activity that is organized, sanctioned, or administered by the university
  • An activity which provides participants with academic credit

 

Timeline:

  • You will need to start the IARM process 2 to 3 months before your departure date.
  • It can take up to 10 business days to process each of your forms.
  • All forms must be submitted at least 3 weeks prior to your departure.
  • Must complete the IARM process and receive a confirmation email from global.learning@torontomu.ca before traveling.

Important process for students to follow

Before participating in any international opportunity through TMU Global Learning, students must complete the International Activity Risk Management (IARM) form. This form is a vital step in ensuring student safety and preparedness while abroad. It helps identify potential risks associated with travel, collects emergency contact information, and ensures students are aware of the necessary health, safety, and travel requirements for their destination. 

Submit your IARM form

Additional Requirements Before Departure

Depending on the nature of your international activity, you may have additional requirements to complete before you can travel. It is your responsibility to ensure you meet these requirements in advance of your departure.

For example, you may need to complete additional steps if you are participating in a placement or an internship abroad or going on an academic exchange.

If you are a researcher conducting research abroad:

These requirements help ensure your travel aligns with TMU policies, safety practices, and applicable legal or ethical obligations.

If you are unsure whether additional requirements apply to your travel, please consult your faculty or reach out to TMU Global Learning before booking travel.

Safety abroad requirements for staff and faculty

If you are a faculty or staff member traveling abroad, please visit the International Risk Management page for important resources.  

Leading a group of students abroad

If you are leading a group of students abroad on a university-sanctioned international group activity (such as a faculty-led trip) please visit the Group Travel Abroad (external link)  page to explore key resources.

Travel resources

  1. Registration of Canadians Abroad (ROCA) (external link) 

    Stay informed, stay connected, and stay safe while abroad by registering your travel plans with the Government of Canada before you go.

  2. Canadian embassies and consulates (external link) 

    Get up-to-date travel advice and country-specific safety information to make informed decisions before and during your time abroad.

  3. Global affairs Canada: Bon Voyage but.. (external link) 

    Plan smart, travel safe. Know your rights, responsibilities, and how to prepare for a successful journey abroad.

  4. World embassy finder (external link) 

    Easily locate your nearest Canadian embassy or consulate anywhere in the world for support, services, and emergency assistance while abroad.

  5. Identity and mental health abroad

    Prioritize your peace of mind. Explore tools, tips, and resources to support your mental health and wellbeing throughout your journey abroad.