Guidance

Applying for export licences using SPIRE

How to use the online export licensing system to get a licence to export controlled goods, software and technology overseas.

From:
Export Control Joint Unit and Department for Business and Trade
Published
9 January 2017
Last updated
10 October 2024 — See all updates

Documents

Using SPIRE to get an export licence

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Details

SPIRE (login required) is the Export Control Joint Unit’s (ECJU) online export licensing system.

Use SPIRE to apply for:

  • open general export licences (OGELs), trade control licences (OGTCLs), open individual export licences (OIELs), transhipment licences and standard individual export licences (SIELs) that cannot be made on the Apply for a SIEL service
  • a Ministry of Defence (MOD) Form 680 clearance to release OFFICIAL-SENSITIVE or above equipment or information
  • private venture security grading
  • exhibition clearance

Updates to this page

Published 9 January 2017
Last updated 10 October 2024 + show all updates

  1. New signposting was added to the SIEL section of the guide for users who need to apply for a licence to provide sanctioned services.

  2. Overview page updated to better explain which SIELs should be applied for in SPIRE instead of the new Apply for a SIEL service.

  3. Information about the SPIRE system has been updated to reflect that there is a new DBT service to apply for standard individual export licences.

  4. Instructions for applying for a standard individual export licence (SIEL) have been updated. There is a new service for applying for SIELs in most instances. The update includes a link to the new service. It also explains which SIEL applications still have to made on SPIRE.

  5. Added content under 'Registering for an OGEL or an OGTCL' on need to re-register licences if you change premises.

  6. Amended guidance for exporters using SPIRE to apply for export licences from 1 January 2021.

  7. First published.

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