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Export/import regulations

When do I need an export licence?
Before taking cultural objects valued at or above a specified financial threshold out of the UK you must apply for an export licence. Information on objects excluded from export control is contained in Factsheet Objects excluded. The relevant financial thresholds for cultural objects being exported within the European Union are available from Factsheet EU categories. Factsheet OGEL limits will give you information on thresholds for the rest of the world. Factsheet Type of licence will help you to determine the type of licence you need for the object concerned.

Why do we need export control?
Export control is the process which makes it possible for cultural goods to remain in this country if they are considered to be of outstanding national importance. The system is designed to strike a balance between the various interests concerned: the protection of the national heritage; the rights of the owner selling the goods; the exporter or overseas purchaser; and the high reputation of the UK in the international art and antiques market.

How is export licensing managed?
Export control for cultural objects is managed by the Export Licensing Unit within the Museums, Libraries and Archives Council (MLA). Some cultural objects such as firearms, military and paramilitary equipment require a licence from the Export Control Organisation (ECO) at the Department for Business Enterprise and Regulatory Reform. Objects containing elements from an endangered species, such as ivory, or natural history objects may also require a license under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora & Fauna (CITES). HM Revenue & Customs runs a help line to advise on export and import issues, telephone 0845 010 9000. Information on all these organisations is available in Learn More.

I wish to take a cultural object out of its country of origin – what do I need to do?
As soon as a potential acquisition is identified the appropriate checks must be made (see buying with confidence). It is essential that you understand the implications of any legislation in the country of origin, and any intermediate countries, including export control. You have to ensure that taking the object out of the country will not be in violation of that legislation. Export restriction lists from other countries are not always easily obtained. As a starting point a few countries export control regulations are given in Factsheet International export control. UNESCO operates a database of cultural legislation around the world; legislation which is available in English is also listed in International export control.  You may also wish to contact the British Embassy of the country concerned. A list of these is available from the Foreign & Commonwealth Office.