How To Import Plants and Plant Products into the United States

Last Modified: May 06, 2024

Import requirements vary depending on the specific commodity and country of origin. You can find this information in our ACIR database.

Agricultural Commodity Import Requirements (ACIR)

START HERE if you are new to the process or do not know the type of import permit you need.

Go to ACIR

The ACIR database contains import requirements (including Federal import orders) for the following agricultural commodities:

  • Cut flowers and greenery
  • Fresh fruit and vegetables
  • Pest organisms
  • Processed fruit and vegetables
  • Plants and seeds for planting and propagation
  • Seeds not for planting
  • Soil, soil amendments, and rocks
  • Wood products and byproducts

Can't find your agricultural commodity in ACIR? Please contact us.

Import Permits

START HERE if you already know the specific permit you need.

Log in to eFile

APHIS eFile is the online system to apply for and receive import and transit permits for plants, plant pests, soil, and agricultural products.

First time user? Create an account.

Things To Know When Importing Plants and Plant Products

Commodity Import Approval Process

If the plant, or plant product you want to import is not already an approved commodity or undergoing a pest risk analysis, you must initiate a commodity import request.
Controlled Import Permits

Some plants and plants products are restricted, which means you need to follow additional requirements to import them into the United States.
Packaging Materials Risks and Best Practices

Learn more about wood packaging materials, the risks they can pose to the United States, and how APHIS regulates them.
Lacey Act Declaration

The Lacey Act combats the illegal trafficking of wildlife, fish, and plants. Find out if your commodity needs a declaration.
Phytosanitary Treatments for Imported Commodities

Some imported commodities may need a phytosanitary treatment before they enter the United States to make sure they are free of pests and diseases.
Import Federal Orders

A Federal Order is a legal document issued in response to an emergency when the APHIS Administrator considers it necessary to take action to protect agriculture or prevent the entry and establishment into the United States of a pest or disease. 

Have a question about importing plants or plant products?

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