What is a phytosanitary certificate?
Some overseas markets require us to issue a phytosanitary certificate for plants and plant products (this includes forestry products).
The certificate helps confirm you've met the overseas market's plant health requirements.
Phytosanitary requirements often vary between markets. Some markets only require you to get a phytosanitary certificate for certain products.
Do you need a phytosanitary certificate?
The Importing Countries Phytosanitary Requirements (ICPR) for your overseas market tell you if you need a phytosanitary certificate.
If the ICPR doesn't mention your product, check with your importer or importing agent about what you need to do.
Importing Countries Phytosanitary Requirements (ICPR)
How to get a phytosanitary certificate
To get a phytosanitary certificate you need to meet the overseas market's phytosanitary requirements, as stated in the ICPR.
To apply for a phytosanitary certificate, you can either use ePhyto or ask an Independent Verification Agency (IVA) to apply for one on your behalf. Using an IVA is recommended for those who do not export often.
There are fees for using an IVA and ePhyto.
Authorised IVAs for plant exports
You might also need to arrange an import permit. How you get one depends on the overseas market. Ask your importer or importing agent what you need to do.
Set up your ePhyto access
To get access to ePhyto you need to:
- create a RealMe login, if you don't already have one
- register your organisation and ePhyto users.
Step 1. Create a RealMe login
RealMe is a secure service used by government and other organisations. It gives you a single login to access online services.
Each ePhyto user needs their own RealMe login.
Step 2. Register for ePhyto
You need to register your organisation and each ePhyto user.
To do this, complete an ePhyto organisation and user registration form [DOCX, 73 KB]
Email the form to plantassurance@mpi.govt.nz
You need to pay an application fee to register your organisation.
After we receive your form, we'll email each user an activation key. They need to enter this when they first log into ePhyto.
Step 3. Log into ePhyto
If you're logging into ePhyto for the first time, you need to:
- read and accept the terms and conditions
- enter the activation key we emailed you.
Once you've logged in, follow the on-screen instructions to get started. ePhyto also has user guides to help you.
Keep your details up to date
Make sure the ePhyto details for your organisation and users are up to date. You can change details or remove access.
To do this, complete the ePhyto user amendment and removal form [DOCX, 66 KB]
Email the form to plantassurance@mpi.govt.nz
Who to contact
If you have questions about phytosanitary certificates or ePhyto, email plantassurance@mpi.govt.nz
