UK export controls and licensing

Guidance on GOV.UK

Categorise product or service against the UK's Strategic Export Control Regime

The UK maintains a list of all items that are subject to strategic export controls. These items are controlled because of international agreements or because they relate to specific defence or security concerns.

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Strategic export controls apply to anyone exporting or transferring goods, software or technology, or providing brokering services. It is an exporter’s responsibility to check whether items require an export licence. If a licence is required, you’ll need to apply well in advance of shipment to avoid any potential issues.

Guidance on GOV.UK

Understand if your product or service needs an Export Licence

An export licence permits you to trade in strategically controlled goods that would otherwise be prohibited from export. Goods are controlled because of their nature and what they could be used for, or their destination market.

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Goods which are likely to be controlled include those which have been specially designed or modified for military use, goods that can be used for both commercial or military purposes, radioactive material and any items which fall within the remit of trade sanctions on any one country.

Guidance on GOV.UK

Ensure appropriate licences are identified

You must apply for a licence from the Export Control Joint Unit (ECJU) if your items are on the consolidated control list, you have concerns about the intended end-use or the end-user, or your items are covered by trade sanctions.

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Open General Export Licences (OGELs) are available for military and dual-use controlled items being exported to a range of destinations. For exports not covered by an OGEL, you’ll need to apply for a Standard Individual Export Licence (SIEL). You can also be issued with an Open Individual Export Licence (OIEL), which is designed to cover long-term contracts, projects and repeat business.