Export controls - criminal penalties apply
UK export controls prevent sensitive items reaching hostile states, terrorist groups, or weapons programmes. The consequences of non-compliance are severe: criminal prosecution, unlimited fines, and up to 10 years imprisonment. Civil penalties can exceed £1 million.
This journey guides you through checking whether your goods are controlled, understanding which licence you need, the application process, and maintaining ongoing compliance.
1. Understand why export controls exist
Understand the legal framework, who enforces it, and penalties for non-compliance
2. Check if your goods are controlled
Learn what types of goods are controlled and how to check the control lists
3. Understand dual-use technology controls
Specific guidance for technology exports including cryptography, AI, and surveillance tools
4. Military and defence products (if applicable)
Navigate export controls for defence products including the Military List categories
5. Screen against UK sanctions lists
Understand UK sanctions on 80+ countries and trade embargoes
6. Conduct end-user due diligence
Deep guidance on due diligence, the 'reasonable cause to suspect' test, and ownership tracing
7. Choose the right licence type
Compare SIEL, OIEL, and OGEL licence types and when to use each
8. Apply for your export licence (opens in a new tab)
Submit your application through LITE or SPIRE
10. Maintain compliance records
Record-keeping requirements and what ECJU inspectors will check
11. Set up ongoing compliance monitoring
Building effective sanctions compliance programmes including screening systems