Eligibility and scope
This section outlines who may use an ATA Carnet and identifies all countries that accept them. It explains which goods are eligible or ineligible for cover, and sets out how controlled or dual‑use goods can be included when the correct licences are obtained.
An ATA Carnet may be used by:
- private travellers
- businesses
The Carnet holder is a person or legal entity responsible for payment of duty and their details are shown in box A on the front cover. Anyone else who takes or uses the goods is referred to as a ‘representative’. They must be named on an ATA Carnet, or have a written authorisation from the Carnet holder.
Carnets are only valid in the countries listed by UKNATACO. You can find the list on the UKNATACO website.
Each country applies its own rules on permitted goods and how they may be used, so you must check the local requirements before you travel.
Taiwan is covered by a bilateral CPD/China-Taiwan Carnet which is separate from the ATA Carnet system. You can contact the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) for more information.
You read more information on the country specific requirements and variations.
Only goods in the categories listed may be imported into the UK under an ATA Carnet. You can find out which goods an ATA Carnet will cover.
Under the ATA and Istanbul Convention system, goods may only be covered by an ATA Carnet if they fall within one of the Annexes to the Convention. If a type of good is not mentioned, or if it is explicitly excluded, then it cannot automatically be admitted under the Carnet system.
However, customs authorities may apply a special consideration which is a case‑specific assessment. This does not extend or override the legal scope of the Istanbul Convention.
The Carnet holder would need to obtain permission from the receiving customs country for any such goods, before applying for an ATA Carnet. Each category may have conditions which must be satisfied. If goods do not meet the conditions they cannot be covered, and other procedures may be considered.
The Carnet system does not remove the normal licensing requirements for controlled, restricted or dual-use goods. Such goods can only travel under an ATA Carnet if:
- you obtain the relevant export and import licences for all countries you will visit or transit
- the licence number is recorded on the general list of the Carnet — customs may check that the goods and licence details match
You should contact the Export Control Organisation (ECO) or relevant licensing authority for advice and to apply for licences.
It is the responsibility of the Carnet holder to check whether the goods are on the UK strategic export control lists or subject to other licensing controls.
Examples of controlled or dual-use goods include:
- firearms, ammunition, riot control or security equipment
- explosives
- chemicals
- certain communications equipment and other items on the UK strategic export control lists
When exporting these goods, you must have an appropriate licence even if you are using an ATA Carnet.
Read the full list of goods imported into Great Britain that are controlled.