Taking antiquities out of United Kingdom
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.
Details
The Export of Objects of Cultural Interest (Control) Order 2003 requires an export licence for items over specified value and age thresholds satisfying one of the Waverley criteria: (1) closely connected with British history and national life; (2) of outstanding aesthetic importance; (3) of outstanding significance for the study of art, learning or history. The Reviewing Committee (RCEWA) may recommend refusal to allow a UK institution to make a matching offer. Arts Council England administers the LICENCES system.
Quantity limits
Value thresholds apply per category (paintings GBP 65,000+; documents GBP 39,219+); age threshold 50 years
Documentation required
- Arts Council England Export Licence (via LICENCES online system)
- RCEWA Waverley assessment if referred
- Provenance documentation
- Valuation certificate from approved appraiser
The other direction
Bringing antiquities into United Kingdom(restricted)