Goods Across Borders · Customs rule card
Antiquities → United Kingdom
Purpose: Traveling · Verified: 2026-04-25
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
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.
Customs authority
His Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC) · https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/hm-revenue-customs