Antiquities → United Kingdom

Antiquities may require documentation or declaration

Details

Antiquities trade is governed by both domestic cultural property laws and international agreements, including the 1970 UNESCO Convention on the Means of Prohibiting and Preventing the Illicit Import, Export and Transfer of Ownership of Cultural Prope. Enforcement in United Kingdom carries fines from GBP 250 to GBP 20,000 under Customs and Excise Management Act 1979 s.78, s.170 (typical personal cases are handled as civil infringements).

Documentation required

• Documentation may be required

Leaving with this item

UK applies Waverley criteria to cultural export control. Items over GBP 65,000 of outstanding cultural significance may require an Arts Council England Export Licence. Refusal triggers right-of-first-refusal for a UK institution.

Practical advice

Carry documentation. Declare proactively at customs. If unsure, declare on arrival — declared goods at worst attract duty or surrender, while undeclared goods found in screening are seized and fined.

Customs authority

His Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC) · https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/hm-revenue-customs