Import Licensing Branch
The majority of goods can be imported into the United Kingdom without the need to apply for an import licence.
Currently The Import Licensing Branch (ILB) issues import licences for a small number of goods in the following categories:
To implement the Department's trade policy measures
these measures may be in the form of quantitive quotas where the volume will be restricted, or freely issued prior surveillance licences so that volumes imported may be monitored:-
- certain textiles from Belarus and North Korea
- iron & steel
For safety reasons
these imports are generally issued only to those with domestic authority to possess:-
As a result of international obligations
these usually take the form of an embargo and no imports will be allowed:-
- anti-personnel mines
- torture equipment
ILB publicises its restrictions by issuing Notices to Importers. Notices covering the current and most popular restrictions are available by clicking on "Notices to Importers" on the left hand side of this page. Notices no longer current are available directly from ILB.
The forms needed to apply for an import licence can also be accessed by clicking on "Import Licensing Forms" on the left hand side of this page. As an original signature is needed or in some cases original supporting documents it is not possible to electronically return applications to ILB.
BIS is not the only Government department to have import restrictions
A full list of import restrictions and prohibitions is listed in volume 1, part 3 of HM Revenue and Customs Integrated Tariff which is available from The Stationery Office.
For example ILB do not issues import licences for agricultural, horticultural products and certain items of food and drink. Traders importing these products will need to contact the Rural Payments Agency (RPA) for advice. Information on requirements can be found on the RPA website.
Also all imported food must obey certain rules to ensure that it is safe to eat, you can find more information on the Food Standards Agency (FSA) website.
There may be other import restrictions and it is the responsibility of importers to ensure that they are aware of them.
If you have a specific query about the work of the Department's Import Licensing branch and cannot find the answer on this site, then the ILB Enquiry point may be able to help you.
Contact:
ILB Enquiry Point
Tel: 01642 364333/334
Fax: 01642 364269
email:enquiries.ilb@bis.gsi.gov.uk
