International Remote Work Requests

International remote work is prohibited in most circumstances at UW–Madison, including when requested by an employee for personal reasons. It is only permitted when the institution formally assigns the employee to work internationally as part of their official duties.

Employing individuals to perform work on behalf of our institution when they are located outside the United States is complex and involves increased costs and legal risks to UW–Madison and the school due to employment laws, taxation rules, data privacy and cybersecurity risks, and other compliance requirements in other countries. In addition, the university’s employee liability protections do not automatically extend to locations outside the state of Wisconsin.

Per UW–Madison’s Remote Work policy and the SMPH Remote Work Guide, international remote work arrangements must be reviewed and approved by the SMPH Dean’s Office and the Office of the Provost to determine if there is a justified business necessity. A business necessity is defined as: “A legitimate business purpose that fulfills the mission and objectives of the university and is not solely for the personal benefit of an employee.”

A business necessity request must be submitted by the employee and supervisor, and supported by the department chair or department administrator or equivalent roles if your appointment is outside of an academic department. Please review the SMPH International Remote Work Justification Process for further information on how to process a request. The international remote work justification form must be submitted at least four weeks before the proposed start date, unless delayed by unforeseen emergencies.

Before submitting the form, it is expected that the manager and employee consult with relevant campus offices, such as Risk Management, Export Control, Research and Sponsored Programs, the Office of Cybersecurity, and/or the Office of Legal Affairs, to ensure all compliance and risk considerations are addressed.