News story

Launch of our new digital import service

We will soon be replacing the Special Import Scheme with a new digital Import Service for veterinary surgeons.

The VMD will soon be replacing the Special Import Scheme with a new digital Import Service for veterinary surgeons. 

We’re introducing enhancements to the digital service to make it easier to use, more secure and reliable, and to meet accessibility legislation.

To learn more about the new Import Service, please go to vmdconnect.uk

We aim to go live by the end of January. The current online service will remain for our other services.

Register to use the new service

You will need to register to use the new service.

We have made this process quick and easy with automatic verification of surgeons and practices using data held by the RCVS. You will therefore need your RCVS login details to hand.

Your RCVS login details such as personal passwords, are not shared with the VMD. This step is solely to verify that our users are UK veterinary surgeons, practicing in a registered premises. After the verification process, your digital services account will be created, and you can then apply for Special Import Certificates (SICs).

During the process of applying for an SIC there is an option to change the correspondence email address to an alternative email address. This is a useful tool if you wish to share your certificate with colleagues working in your practice.

The current scheme and our new digital service

In line with the current service, veterinary surgeons may register for our digital import service. Veterinary surgeons in possession of an SIC are fully responsible for the importation and use of the product named in the certificate under the cascade. We are also working on improving the application process for obtaining a WDIC and RIC for wholesale dealers and Home Office project license holders, which will be available later this year.

Please share this announcement with other veterinary surgeons in your practice who may wish to apply for SICs.

Updates to this page

Published 24 January 2024