Import Permits

You may need an import permit to transfer certain research materials to your laboratory.  Failure to obtain the appropriate import permit may result in confiscation of samples by U.S. Customs or the U.S. Public Health Service Division of Quarantine.  Import permits should be issued to the Principal Investigator. EHS can help you determine the appropriate regulatory agency to contact and if a permit is needed. Plan ahead when considering the importation of the materials described below, as the permit process may take several weeks and up to 2 months.
 
Human Pathogens
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Import Permit Program oversees the importation of agents infectious to humans or biological materials that are suspected to contain a human pathogen. Under this program, researchers can apply for a Permit to Import Biological Agents or Vectors of Human Disease or a Permit to Import Live Bats through the CDC's electronic application system, eIPP. If it is determined that an Etiologic Agent Import Permit is not required, EHS can assist with drafting a letter to support successful importation into the US.
Permit applications and FAQs are available on the CDC website. Contact [email protected] if you need assistance.
 
Animal Pathogens and Biological Materials of Animal Origin
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA),  Animal Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) requires permits for the importation of animal pathogens and biological materials that contain animal material.  Materials such as cell culture-grown pathogens containing growth stimulants of bovine or other livestock agents will require a permit due to the potential for the presence of organisms/viruses that may be dangerous to animals. Permits are also required for interstate transport. 
FAQs, permit applications and fact sheets on materials that do and do not require permits can be found at the USDA website. Contact [email protected] if you need assistance.
 
Soils
Soil is strictly controlled under APHIS quarantine regulations because it can readily provide a pathway for the introduction of a variety of dangerous organisms into the United States. If you plan to import soil from a country outside of the U.S., or from certain areas within the U.S., you must be authorized by APHIS through their permitting system.   The soil permits will stipulate storage conditions and disposal requirements, which are designed to prevent the introduction of pathogens that may be present in the samples.  
Information can be found on the USDA/APHIS website. Contact [email protected] if you need assistance.
 
Wildlife and Animals
Consult the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service website to determine if you need a permit to import or export certain wildlife,  including species covered by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES). Contact [email protected] if you need assistance.
 

Resources

Staff

Meagan Fitzpatrick
Assistant Director and Biosafety Officer
609-258-6258