Exports to the EU

Since 1 January 2021, the export of controlled goods/technology to the EU has required an export licence.

If you are intending to export goods or technology to the EU please first decide whether the item is controlled by following the guidance set out on the University’s Export Control website (where you can also find and download the export control enquiry form) and our specific guidance on how to navigate the export control lists and classify items, software and technology.

Should you conclude that the goods or technology you wish to export are controlled you should either:

  • For items/technology with a direct military use or WMD use seek an individual licence as set out on the main University export control pages.
  • For items/technology listed in Category 0 (nuclear materials, facilities and equipment) of the UK export control lists, you will require additional support, so please contact researchgovernance@admin.cam.ac.uk.
  • For dual-use goods/technology use the guidance below to initiate an export under the University's Open General Export Licence (OGEL) for dual use exports to the EU.

How to use the University’s OGEL for dual-use exports to the EU

If you intend to export dual-use goods or technology, please contact the research governance team by emailing researchgovernance@admin.cam.ac.uk with a completed export control enquiry form. The team will then review and assess whether the OGEL can be used. Once it is clear that the OGEL can be used, you will be asked to complete the University's OGEL record form. This will record the relevant information we need to comply with the conditions of the licence. The form asks for information about:

  • the exporter, name and details
  • any Co-Is
  • how the export will be made e.g. via email, via physical export, etc.
  • the Category, Item number, and Description of the goods, software or technology
  • when the export will be made
  • who will receive the export, and
  • who the end-user will be

The University is required to have a record of all exports of dual-use goods and technology made to the EU under the OGEL. These records must be kept for 3 years and may be audited by the UK Export Control Joint Unit. 

For the digital export of intangible goods (technology, software, data etc.) you will be given instructions on what information you need to include when you transfer your export electronically. 

For physical exports, the Import Export Hub will take the lead on completing the necessary forms, commercial invoices and pre-alerts, and liaising with the freight forwarding service (if one is used). A physical export will require the University’s OGEL registration details, which are held by the research governance team. No export under the University’s OGEL can take place without these registration details and authorisation by the research governance team.   

Seeking advice

If you have any questions about your export or regarding the use of the export control enquiry form or the EU OGEL record form, please seek advice from a member of the research governance team by emailing researchgovernance@admin.cam.ac.uk.