Importing a parrot into the UK involves a number of regulatory steps that changed significantly after Brexit. This guide explains the current rules clearly so you know exactly what documentation is required and what to expect during the import process.
Since the UK left the EU's single market on 1 January 2021, parrots being imported from EU countries (including Spain, where our aviary is located) are subject to the same third-country import rules as birds from non-EU countries. This means:
We prepare all export-side documentation from Spain: the CITES export permit, the EU Animal Health Certificate, and veterinary health certificate. We handle the Spanish CITES authority application on our end. Your responsibility as the UK buyer is to apply for the UK CITES import permit (for Appendix I species), which we assist you with throughout the process, providing all necessary supporting documents.
To apply for a UK CITES import permit, you will need to submit Form FC6050 to the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA). The application requires details of the species, the source (our CITES registration details), and proof of legal acquisition. Processing times can range from 2–8 weeks, so this should be applied for early in the purchase process. We provide all seller documentation needed for your application.
Commercial import of parrots for sale (i.e., buying a parrot abroad and bringing it into the UK) must go through a Border Control Post and the full commercial import documentation applies. Personal pet birds returning to the UK with their owner follow a different — but still documented — process.
From placing an order to the bird arriving in the UK, the process typically takes 4–10 weeks depending on permit processing times and flight availability. We keep you informed at every stage.
The UK now issues its own CITES permits rather than recognising EU permits automatically. For commercial imports, a UK CITES import permit must be obtained in advance. We coordinate the full documentation chain from Spain.
Browse our current availability and get in touch for pricing, delivery timelines, and documentation details.