Licence

Strategic export control licence

You need a strategic export licence to export out of the UK or trade in controlled goods, software or technology (including data, information and technical assistance).

Apply for this licence

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Check if you need a strategic export licence for some controlled goods, for example military, defence or security related goods. This also covers dual use goods that can be used for both civil and military purposes, for example some software.

This means items that are one of the following:

How to apply

All applications should be made via the ECJU’s SPIRE online export licensing system.

Fines and penalties

Breaching export controls is a criminal offence. Penalties can vary depending on the nature of the offence. They range from:

  • revocation of a licence
  • seizure of goods 
  • issuing of compound penalty fine 
  • imprisonment for up to 10 years

Check if there are embargoes or sanctions against exporting certain goods (for example military, defence or security related goods) to individual countries.

ECJU helpline
Telephone: 020 7215 4594
Email: exportcontrol.help@trade.gov.uk
Find out about call charges