Anyone who imports Wildlife must obtain a US Fish & Wildlife Service import/export license. In the past importers could apply for an import license from the service by completing a paper form and presenting it to a Service wildlife inspection office or an Office of Law Enforcement Permits Office. On October 2, 2017 the new Fish & Wildlife eLicense system was available for use.
The Fish and Wildlife Service has developed and tested a new voluntary electronic licensing system (eLicense). This new system allows users to apply for a new import/export license or renew or amend a current or expired license from the Service via internet. It also facilitates the clearance of wildlife imports and exports, and allows users to communicate (by email) with Service License issuers!
Even though the new eLicense system is available for use, the Service will continue to accept and process the traditional “paper” applications; though it is encouraged to take advantage of the new electronic application system.
The eLicense system may be accessed via the Office of Law Enforcement eLicense home page: https://www.fws.gov/elicense/
To complete an application with eLicense users need:
- Internet connectivity
- An e-mail addresses
- Microsoft Internet Explorer browser (version 5.0 or higher)
- Ink jet or laser printer
No special software is required and no additional fees are charged for using this service. Applicants should postmark their applications at least 60 calendar days prior to the requested effective date; Fish & Wildlife will continue to process applications as quickly as possible.
Contact:
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Office of Law Enforcement
703-358-1949; 703-358-2271 (fax)
lawenforcement@fws.gov (e-mail)
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