Foreign Nationals (Non-U.S. Citizens) Access Program

Entry Requirements for Foreign Nationals

SLAC supports an atmosphere of free intellectual exchange and collaboration within the international scientific and technical community. Guests from around the world play a vital role in achieving SLAC’s mission.

SLAC is a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) national laboratory. All foreign national access is governed by DOE Order 142.3C, the Unclassified Foreign National Access Program (UFNAP), the SLAC Site Compliance Plan, and implemented through the Visitor and User Engagement (VUE) Center. DOE UFNAP requires thorough background screening, tracking via the Foreign Access Central Tracking System (FACTS), and approval for non-U.S. citizens.

SLAC is an internationally leading research institution principally funded by the U.S. Government. We continuously balance international engagement and research security, both essential to our success. 

How Foreign National Access Works

  • All guest access to SLAC and SLAC resources must be initiated by a SLAC host.
  • Approval is required before access on-site or to SLAC resources.
  • New employee and non-employee requirements: FACTS entry and indices checks must be completed before the start date.

A host is a SLAC employee responsible for inviting and sponsoring the foreign national during their visit, assignment, or access to SLAC resources. 

The host initiates all invitations through the SLAC Guest Gateway using the guest's home institution email address. Once invited, the guest receives automated notifications with instructions on required documentation and next steps.

Access to SLAC resources (onsite or remote) is not permitted until the guest provides all required documentation and receives VUE Center approval. All required documentation should be gathered prior to the guest starting their registration. 

Approval timelines vary. Some cases may require significantly longer review periods. Hosts should initiate the process early to avoid delays.

Foreign National Guests

If you have been invited to SLAC, review the Foreign National Guest Requirements page for information on documentation, arrival procedures, and compliance obligations.

SLAC Host Responsibilities

SLAC employees planning to host foreign nationals can review the Foreign National Host Responsibilities page for detailed requirements, training information, and their obligations during the assignment.

SLAC International Services Office (ISO)

ISO provides visa, immigration, and compliance guidance to foreign nationals and SLAC hosts.

The team helps foreign nationals maintain legal U.S. status, serves as a resource on complex immigration matters, and coordinates with Laboratory Counsel and external legal advisors.

The ISO is located in the VUE Center. Contact: iso@slac.stanford.edu.

More information: 

Note: SLAC is considered a “department” of Stanford in this respect.