Additionally, it may also make sense to request multiple copies of the form for use on future occasions. The UKC Centre for Social Anthropology and Computing is also able to supply you with such forms for as long as stocks last. You should indicate on page 2 of the form that the machine is being taken abroad for academic research only, and will be returned to the UK on completion. We also suggest that on receipt of authorisation, a photocopy of the licence be made. The original should be kept with the machine at all times, and in the event of its confiscation, by police, customs officials or other persons, proof of possession of the appropriate licence is available.
Import controls Some countries regulate the import of portable computers.
We have checked with the embassies of a number of countries to enquire what their regulations and practices are in this regard. Nevertheless, we advise that you check with the relevant diplomatic mission before leaving for the field. We think this is good advice in the event of any problem, and had the information been available prior to departure, he would have taken it. Quite apart from any formal state regulations concerning the import of portable computers, they may occasion interest from local authorities and police. To circumvent any possible problem it is useful to have a letter from the home institution, and perhaps from the host institute, university or national academy of sciences, confirming that the computer is being used for legitimate research.