FOREIGN INFLUENCE REGISTRATION SCHEME

What is FIRS? (Foreign Influence Registration Scheme) 

From 1 July 2025, the UK Government is introducing the Foreign Influence Registration Scheme (FIRS). 

FIRS is designed to make it clearer when foreign governments or organisations they control are trying to influence UK politics or policy. 

If a person or organisation in the UK is working with or for a foreign state on activities that could influence UK political decisions, they may need to register those arrangements. 

There are two levels of registration: 

Most registrations will be published on a public online register (with a few exceptions). 
It’s important to note: being registered does NOT mean the government approves the activity. 
FIRS sits within the National Security Act 2023. 

What is Imperial doing about FIRS? 

Imperial’s Research Security Team (RST), based in the Research Office, is leading the College’s response. They will confirm if an activity or partnership needs to be registered and handle any registration with the Home Office on Imperial’s behalf. 

If you aren’t sure whether your activity is affected, you should contact the Activities Team. 

How might FIRS affect students? 

For most people at Imperial, FIRS won’t apply. However, you should be aware of it if you are working with or collaborating with a foreign government or an organisation controlled by one, especially in activities that could be interpreted as political influence. 

Examples might include: 

This could include activity that sits alongside your academic work, not just your research or teaching. 

FIRS applies to both staff and students, because our community is highly international and active in research. Imperial is working closely with the Russell Group and other universities to make sure we have a consistent sector-wide approach. We will update you if things change. 

What do I need to do? 

The Research Security Team has created guidance that you can see here.

If you think your work, project, or collaboration might involve a foreign government or a foreign-power-controlled organisation, please check the RST guidance and submit a ticket to the Activities Team.