Follow these steps to import germplasm
What you need to know
An overview of importing semen and embryos (germplasm) from start to finish.
To successfully import semen and embryos you need to know about:
- the import health standard (IHS) and meeting its requirements
- approved and specified countries
- getting a veterinary certificate in the exporting country, to allow your semen and embryos to enter New Zealand
- applying for a permit, if required, at least 6 weeks before bringing your semen and embryos into New Zealand
- relevant fees and charges.
Approved species and countries
You can only import semen or embryos (germplasm) from certain animal species and countries:
- alpaca and llama embryos from Australia
- bee semen from Austria and Germany
- cattle embryos from Australia, Canada, USA, EU, UK, and Switzerland
- cattle semen from Australia, Canada, USA, EU, Switzerland, UK, and Norway
- deer germplasm from Australia, and UK
- horse semen from Australia, Canada, UK, USA, EU, Switzerland, and Norway
- laboratory animal (rats, mice, and zebra fish) germplasm into containment only
- pig semen from Australia, Norway, New Caledonia, USA, and Canada
- sheep and goat germplasm from Australia, UK, France, and Canada
- zoo zebra semen from Australia and USA.
Related import processes
Processes for importing animals or other consignments related to germplasm are explained elsewhere on this website. Follow these steps if you're importing:
What you need to do
The tasks you need to complete.
Comply with the import health standard (IHS) requirements
Import health standards (IHS) have all of the information you need to import semen or embryos (germplasm) into New Zealand.
Read your IHS thoroughly and make sure you can meet all of the requirements before you start importing.
Find the IHS for the type of semen or embryo you're planning to import
Find the right veterinary certificates
Veterinary certificates that have to be completed for your consignment are either in the IHS, listed as a separate document, or in an accompanying guidance document, if available.
Guidance documents
Guidance documents are available for some types of semen or embryo imports. The documents will help you meet IHS requirements. They also have model veterinary certificates.
- Download the guidance for importing bovine semen and embryos from approved countries [PDF, 424 KB]
- Download the guidance for importing pig semen [PDF, 225 KB]
- Download the guidance for sheep and goat semen and embryos [PDF, 474 KB]
When there is no IHS or your import doesn't meet all IHS requirementsIf your import doesn't meet all of the IHS requirements (for example, if the item has been tested using a different method from the one specified in the IHS), you can ask MPI about assessing your import under equivalent measures. This is known as 'equivalence'. You'll need to supply information to show how the risks managed by the IHS are managed to an equivalent level for your product. You'll also need to provide MPI with supporting information, as listed in each IHS. If MPI grants equivalence for your item, it must be recorded on a permit. To ask about equivalence and getting a permit, email animal.imports@mpi.govt.nz. If there's no IHS for the semen or embryos you want to import, you can't bring them to New Zealand. However, you can ask MPI to consider developing a new IHS for your product. |
Arrange to get veterinary certificates completed and signed
You'll need to get an official veterinarian in the exporting country to complete and sign veterinary certificates for the semen and embryos. The certificates are specific to each country.
Detailed information is available about approved diagnostic tests, vaccines, and treatments for semen and embryos.
- Download the document for approved diagnostic tests, vaccines, treatments, and post-arrival testing laboratories [PDF, 1.3 MB]
Apply for an import permit online, if required
The IHS will tell you if an import permit is required. If needed, apply for a permit by completing an application online. Manual application forms are no longer available.
Payment is required when submitting an online application.
Processing time for permit application is 30 working days. Ensure you give us this time to process the application.
Online permit application – Animal and Plant Import Permits
Once your permit is approved and issued, you can import the semen and embryos into New Zealand, where it will be inspected by a biosecurity officer. You may be charged for the officer's time. If all of the supporting documentation is approved and the consignment is given clearance at the border, you can bring it into the country.
Unless you're product is being imported under equivalance, you don't need a permit for:
- horse semen
- frozen canine semen.
If you have any questions about permits, email animal.imports@mpi.govt.nz
Prepare documentation
You will need to have the following documentation ready and available for inspection when the semen and embryos arrive in New Zealand:
- an original veterinary certificate endorsed by the official veterinarian, with their original stamp, signature, and date on every page
- a copy of the import permit (if required)
- a summary of laboratory tests or original laboratory reports for each animal, completed according to the requirements in the veterinary certificate.
Meet on-arrival requirements
On arrival in New Zealand, your documentation will be inspected by a biosecurity officer.
If the semen or embryos are not given clearance, they will be held at the place of arrival at the border until clearance can be given. After further inspection by a biosecurity officer, the semen or embryos will either require more testing, be reshipped, or destroyed. You will have to meet any costs involved.
Getting your import documentation
How you know you've met MPI requirements.
Your semen and embryos will be eligible for clearance into New Zealand when you have:
- completed all of the steps
- completed and endorsed the original veterinary certificates and supporting documentation from the exporting country
- had your documents inspected and cleared by an MPI inspector or official veterinarian.
