Fiducia TogetherExport licence
Permission required to export controlled goods, technology or software.
Please note: This page explains what a term means. It is general information, not legal, financial, tax or investment advice, and it does not know anything about your business. Before you sign, file or commit to anything, check it with an accountant, a solicitor, or the official guidance we link to.
What it means
Certain goods, software and technology require a licence to export — military and dual-use items, some chemicals, and anything destined for a sanctioned country or party.
Why it matters
Exporting without a required licence is a criminal offence, and "we did not know it was controlled" is not a defence.
What it looks like in practice
Dual-use catches more than people expect: encryption software, some drones, certain machine tools and materials.\n\nSanctions lists must be checked against the customer, the end user and the destination.
What to watch out for
Intangible transfers. Emailing controlled technical data abroad, or giving a foreign national access to it, can itself be an export.
Where to get proper advice
The Export Control Joint Unit's helpline, free. A trade compliance adviser for controlled goods.
Where to read more
Last reviewed 2026-08-28 by Fiducia Together · Next review due 2027-08-28
Please note: This page explains what a term means. It is general information, not legal, financial, tax or investment advice, and it does not know anything about your business. Before you sign, file or commit to anything, check it with an accountant, a solicitor, or the official guidance we link to.