The rules concerning the import of animal products are in the process of changing, since the United Kingdom left the European Union in January 2020. For the most up to date information on importing and exporting, please contact the Biosafety Team.

Import of Animal path and prod

Import of Animal Products that are Unlikely to be Infected with an Animal Pathogen

If you order animal-by-products known not to be infected or have good reason to expect that they are not infected with an animal pathogen, from a reputable company with a distribution centre in the UK, it is unlikely that you will need to apply for a licence, but you should double-check this with the supplier.

If you wish to import, other than from a reputable company, any such animal-by-products from within the EU (or certain Third countries), you can probably import the product under the Research Licensing Regime. The Research Licensing Regime provides general licenses/authorisations which you can download from the DEFRA and APHA website on GOV.UK. The Research Licensing Regime has specific conditions for its use and only certain products are covered under these licences. If you plan to use a General Licence or Authorisation you must let the Safety Department know that you intend to do so and the details of the licence to be used.

For any Animal-by-Products that are not covered under the Research Licensing Regime, you must apply for an Animal Health Import Licence using the IV58 and guidance and its supplementary forms.

Follow this link to download the forms: IV58 and guidance

Applications for an Animal Health Import Licence must be submitted to the Safety Department and not directly to APHA.

Import or Possession of an Animal Pathogen

If you wish to import an animal pathogen or a carrier, or hold a specified animal pathogen then the appropriate license must be obtained as below:

  • For an animal pathogen or carrier under Import of Animal Pathogens Order use form: IV58 and guidance. 
  • For specified Animal Pathogens as defined within the Specified Animal Pathogens Order use form: SAPO1 from the HSE website

Further information on animal pathogens, carriers and specified animal pathogens is available from APHA.

All applications for a specific licence must be submitted to the Safety Department and not directly to APHA.