Animal Plant Health Agency
Most imports of animals and animal products are covered by UK legislation. Find out if your import is covered on the Import information notes on the Animal and Plant Health Authority (APHA) website.
If theres no agreed UK legislation for the animals or animal products you want to import, you will need an import licence or authorisation.
There are general import licences and authorisations for:
- genetic material
- live animals
- products for human consumption
- products not for human consumption
- research and diagnostic samples, trade samples and display items
You do not need to apply for one of these licences but you must follow its conditions.
If you cannot find a general licence or authorisation for what you want to import, you must apply for a licence.
Genetic material
Licences for semen, ova and embryos from:
- livestock
- canines
- felines
- rodents
- lagomorphs (hares, rabbits and pikas)
- equines
These are for products entering England from:
- the Channel Islands
- Northern Ireland
- Isle of Man
-
countries outside the EU
Live animals
Licences for:
- domestic and non-domestic livestock (cattle, pigs, sheep, goats)
- poultry, birds and equidae (horses, ponies, donkeys)
These are for animals entering England from:
- the Channel Islands
- Northern Ireland
- Isle of Man
- non-EU countries
Captive or pet birds
Cattle
- , and amendment notice