If you import fish to the UK from the EU you’ll need a validated catch certificate from the exporter.

If the fish you’re importing has been stored or processed, you may also may need additional documents, endorsed by the competent authority in the country of processing:

• a processing statement filled in by the processor
• storage documents from the exporter

UK port health authorities (fisheries authorities in Northern Ireland) will check these documents for UK freight imports.

There may be implications for trade between Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Find out more about moving goods into, out of, or through Northern Ireland from 1 January 2021.

From 1 April, you’ll also need an Export Health Certificate.

Direct landings into the UK

EU fishing vessels must land into a North East Atlantic Fisheries Commission (NEAFC) designated UK port. EU vessels will need to submit a NEAFC Port State Control form (PSC1 or PSC2) before landing.

EU vessels will also need to complete a:

• prior notification form
• pre-landing declaration
• catch certificate

Prior notification form

EU vessels landing into the UK with exempt fisheries products will need to complete an exempt fisheries products prior notification for form.

The prior notification form must be emailed to the designated UK port before landing. It will need to be sent:

• for frozen fish, at least 72 hours before landing
• for fresh fish, at least 4 hours before landing

Pre-landing declaration

EU vessels will need to fill in a pre-landing declaration and email it to the designated UK port 4 hours before landing.

They will need to give details of the consignment, including the:

• area fished
• quantity of fish by species on board the vessel

Re-exporting fish imported from the EU

If you re-export fish that’s imported from the EU you’ll need to complete the re-export section on the catch certificate.

Customs requirements

You must comply with HMRC guidance on customs requirements for importing from the EU.