Process of Communicating with Government Agencies Regarding Foreign Nationals Participation in Government-Sponsored Projects

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1. Purpose

This process outlines the procedures for communicating with government agencies to request and/or facilitate Foreign National participation in government-sponsored programs while ensuring compliance with relevant laws and institutional guidelines.

2. Scope

This process applies to all faculty, staff, and administrative units involved in government-sponsored programs that include, or seek to include, Foreign Nationals as participants. For purposes of this process guidance, “Foreign National” means any individual who is not: (1) a United States citizen or national; (2) a lawful U.S. permanent resident (AKA a “green card” holder); or (3) an otherwise protected refugee or asylum grantee as described at 8 U.S.C. § 1324b(a)(3).

3. Legal and Regulatory Compliance

All communications must comply with:

• Immigration Laws: Ensure compliance with visa requirements (e.g., F-1, J-1) and associated regulations.
• Export Control Laws: Adhere to restrictions on sharing sensitive information or technology with Foreign Nationals.
• Government Program Requirements: Fulfill specific eligibility and reporting requirements set by the sponsoring government agency.
• Institutional Policies: Align with Montana State University's policies on international student participation and sponsored programs.

4. Approval and Oversight

All communications with government agencies regarding Foreign National participation must be:


• Reviewed by Montana State University’s Research Integrity & Compliance under the Vice President for Research and Economic Development before submitting a request or inquiry to government agencies.
• Monitored to ensure accuracy and consistency in messaging, and compliance with applicable legal and contractual obligations.

5. Point of Contact

• The designated PI on record with the government agency is primarily responsible for communicating with government agencies. MSU’s Research Integrity and Compliance and Office of Sponsored Programs may communicate with government agencies to facilitate coordination and compliance. Senior Researchers or CO-PIs may not communicate directly with the government agency for such a request and must make such a request to the PI listed on the government-sponsored program.