Last updated on October 2, 2025
The UK enforces strict biosecurity controls on the import of live bees to protect against pests and diseases that threaten apiculture and wild pollinators. Importers of live honeybees, bumblebees, and other pollinating insects must use authorised premises and follow licensing rules administered by the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA). Requirements include approved health certificates from the exporting country, pre-export and post-entry veterinary checks, and compliance with specific disease-testing protocols for notifiable diseases such as varroosis and American foulbrood. Some commercial movements (for instance, registered bumblebee suppliers) are permitted under tightly controlled conditions with mandatory traceability and permitted-use restrictions; however casual or unlicensed importation by individuals or businesses without prior approval is not allowed and risks seizure, fines, and prosecution. Check APHA import notices and notify APHA well in advance; failure to obtain the right documentation will result in refusal at the border and possible enforcement action.
Import guidance pages updated 2024–2025 (APHA/DEFRA pages maintained; last major update 2024).