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Important Updates to VisitNIH Pre-Registration Requirements

​Dear Colleagues, 

I am writing to inform you of important upcoming changes to the VisitNIH pre-registration requirements, which align with the HHS Office of National Security (ONS) Foreign National Access Management Policy (FNAMP). 

Key Updates: 

Mandatory Pre-Registration for Non-U.S. Persons
All non-U.S. person visitors (i.e., individuals who are NOT U.S. citizens or Green Card holders) must complete pre-registration before visiting the following NIH locations:

  • Bethesda Main Campus 
  • 5601 Fishers Lane 
  • Biomedical Research Center at Baltimore-Bayview 
  • Shady Grove 

New Date for Pre-Registration – March 31 
As of March 31, 2025, any non-U.S. person visitor who has not completed the VisitNIH pre-registration process - or has not been approved — will not be granted access to the aforementioned NIH facilities. This is a change from previous guidance, and there will be no exceptions. 

Recommended Pre-Registration Timeline

  • For Non-U.S. Persons: Complete pre-registration at least 30 days in advance to allow sufficient time for vetting and verification. Pre-registration cannot be completed more than 60 days in advance. 
  • For U.S. Persons: Pre-registration is encouraged but not required. U.S. persons can register up to one day before their visit for expedited access. 

New Date for Escort Requirement – April 28 
Beginning April 28, 2025, all non-U.S. person visitors to the aforementioned NIH facilities will require an NIH escort. Additional training and resources on escort procedures will be provided in the coming weeks. 

Next Steps: 

  1. ​Complete the Required LMS Training: 
  • ​Before accessing the VisitNIH Pre-Registration Portal, NIH staff must complete a 20-minute self-paced LMS training. 
  • Please allow up to 24 hours after completing the training for access to be granted. 
  1. Access Resources & FAQs: 

Questions? 

For additional information or to find your VisitNIH ICO POC, please view the VisitNIH Intranet Site (NIH Staff Only) or refer to the FAQs linked above. 

 Safety and security remain top NIH priorities, and the VisitNIH pre-registration process is a key measure in ensuring a secure and protected environment for our research and operations. Thank you for your cooperation. 

 ​Sincerely, 

Co-Sponsors of VisitNIH and the NIH Visitor Access Management Initiative (VAMI)


Colleen A. McGowan, MHA, FACHE                                                                           Nina F. Schor, MD, PhD

Chief Security Officer                                                                                                  Deputy Director for Intramural Research

Director, Office of Research Services                                                                         National Institutes of Health

National Institutes of Health


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