- Sandbox base URL
- https://gateway.trade.defra.gov.uk/trade-sci-exports/uat
- Production base URL
- https://gateway.trade.defra.gov.uk/trade-sci-exports
This API lets exporters apply for export health certificates, check the status of existing applications, and check for validation errors using Defra export services.
An export health certificate (EHC) is an official document that confirms your export of live animals and animal products meets the health requirements of the destination country.
You must apply for an EHC if you’re exporting or moving live animals or animal products from Great Britain (England, Scotland and Wales) to, or through::
- The European Union
- Non European Union countries
- Northern Ireland (NI)
Find out more about export health certificates.
If you have not yet had an invite, do not register for access.
This API service is still being developed. Defra is working with a small number of users to try the current sandbox service. Invited users can integrate with our sandbox environment in order to test their integration with Defra APIs ready for full integration when the service is ready.
If you're an invited user, you must create an account create an account in order to begin using this service.
Benefits of using this API
The export health service API enables system to system calls between your software and Defra's export health certificate service. This makes it easier to apply for an export certificate and reduces the admin burden on exporters. It also reduces the risk of error and of data entry duplication.
What it can do
When the API is ready, you'll be able to use it to:
- make a new application for an export health certificate
- check a submitted application
- check on the status of a submitted export health certificate application
- get metadata required for a submission for an export health certificate
Additional endpoints are provided for development and testing purposes to enable you to retrieve sample payloads for supported export health certificates.
If you've been invited to use this service and you're ready to start your integration, create an account now.
You can view the API specification in order to find out more technical detail on what functionality is available.
Who can use it
At the moment, only a small number of invited users are able to use the sandbox service. In the future, importers, traders and agencies will be able to use this API.
Which EHCs does this API support?
This API is currently being developed. At present you can apply for these export health certificates:
- -8293 - Eggs for human consumption to the European Union and Northern Ireland.
You'll soon be able to apply for a greater number of EHCs using this API.
How to export using this API
Before you begin
Make sure you have read the full guidance on making animal exports before you begin using this API.
The endpoint in this API is both user-restricted and application-restricted. Your users must register as an individual before they can submit applications using the API.
You'll need the help of a named official vet or local authority inspector in order to make your application. An official veterinarian is someone who has been authorised by APHA to perform statutory duties (work that is required by law). Find a professional to certify your export health certificate .
Once you've chosen an inspector or OV to work with, you'll need to check that they can inspect your consignment and sign your EHC when it's needed. Make sure that you notify them at least 7 days ahead of time.
Once you're fully integrated with the API you'll follow these steps to export goods:
- Tell your inspector or OV that you plan to make an application for export.
- Complete and submit your EHC application using your integrated systems. Apply for any other documentation you need, such as transport authorisation or a certificate of competence.
- APHA will then review your EHC application. If your EHC is granted, you'll be able to download and print it from your integrated systems.
- APHA will raise an import notification with the destination authority.
- The physical EHC should accompany the consignment as it leaves the UK, together with any supporting documents.