Foreign Influence Registration Scheme
At Queen Mary University of London, international collaboration is fundamental to delivering world-leading research and innovation. The University values partnerships with organisations and researchers across the globe and is committed to supporting open, transparent and responsible international engagement.
The Foreign Influence Registration Scheme (FIRS) is a UK Government transparency measure introduced under the National Security Act 2023. The Scheme is intended to increase transparency around certain arrangements involving foreign powers and specified foreign power-controlled entities where political influence activities or other specified activities are undertaken in the UK.
Most international research collaborations will not be affected by the Scheme. However, researchers should consider whether proposed research activities or partnerships could fall within its scope and seek advice where appropriate.
The Research Security Team is here to support you throughout this process.
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What is the Foreign Influence Registration Scheme?
The Foreign Influence Registration Scheme (FIRS) is part of the UK's National Security Act 2023 and promotes transparency about certain activities carried out on behalf of foreign powers or specified foreign power-controlled organisations.
In most cases, FIRS is not concerned with where a collaborator is based. Instead, it considers whether activities are being undertaken on behalf of, under the direction of, or in collaboration with a foreign power or certain foreign power-controlled organisations.
The Scheme is not designed to prevent international collaboration. Instead, it helps ensure that certain relationships and activities are transparent where required by law.
Within a university environment, the Scheme may become relevant where research activities involve arrangements with foreign powers or organisations that are subject to the Scheme.
Examples may include:
- research collaborations
- funding arrangements
- consultancy activities
- policy engagement
- advisory work
- knowledge exchange activities
- strategic partnerships.
Most academic collaborations will not require registration. However, some activities may require additional assessment before they begin.
FIRS Registration Requirements
FIRS consists of two separate registration requirements, each designed to increase transparency around activities involving foreign powers.
Political Influence Tier
The Political Influence Tier applies to activities carried out in the UK on behalf of a foreign power where the purpose is to influence UK political processes, public policy, legislation, elections or public officials. Registration may be required before such activities take place.
Enhanced Tier
The Enhanced Tier applies to arrangements and activities involving specified foreign powers or foreign power-controlled entities designated by the UK Government. Registration requirements are broader than those under the Political Influence Tier and may capture certain research, funding or partnership arrangements that would not otherwise require registration.
Most academic collaborations will not require registration. Where there is uncertainty, researchers should seek advice from the Research Security Team before entering into an arrangement.
Why the Foreign Influence Registration Scheme matters?
Universities have an important role in maintaining public confidence in international research and collaboration.
Considering FIRS at an early stage helps to:
- support transparent international engagement
- ensure compliance with UK legislation
- protect researchers and the University
- reduce delays to collaborative projects
- provide confidence to research partners
- strengthen responsible international collaboration.
- avoid potential criminal offences arising from failures to meet registration requirements
Early engagement allows potential issues to be identified before agreements are finalised.
Your responsibilities
Every researcher should consider whether a proposed international activity may involve arrangements that require additional consideration under the Foreign Influence Registration Scheme.
This includes:
- considering who the research partner is
- understanding funding arrangements
- identifying whether an organisation is acting on behalf of a foreign power
- discussing potential concerns with the Research Security Team
- participating in the University's due diligence process where required
- following advice provided during any assessment.
When the Foreign Influence Registration Scheme may apply?
The Scheme should be considered whenever research involves:
1. International collaborations
Research undertaken with overseas governments, government agencies or organisations acting on their behalf.
2. Funding
Research funding provided directly or indirectly by foreign governments or specified organisations.
3. Strategic partnerships
Formal agreements involving organisations connected to foreign powers.
4. Consultancy and advisory activities
Providing expert advice, analysis or technical support under arrangements with foreign governments or specified organisations.
5. Policy engagement
Activities intended to influence UK public policy, legislation or political decision-making on behalf of a foreign power.
6. Knowledge exchange
Activities involving the transfer of expertise, technical knowledge or research capability where arrangements with foreign powers may exist.
If you are unsure whether the Scheme may apply, contact the Research Security Team at vp-trustedresearch@qmul.ac.uk before proceeding.
Additional Information
External Sources of information:
Foreign Influence Registration Scheme (FIRS)
Note: Research Security policies and guidance documents are available on the Policies, Guidance and Training page.