Wildlife & Cultural

Ivory

Prohibited

Banned under CITES — severe penalties for trafficking.

Ivory rules are governed by CITES and vary by country with only narrow exceptions, and the official wildlife and customs authorities make the final decision.

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Before you travel

Documents you may need

CITES permit/certificate from the country of export's Management Authority
CITES pre-Convention certificate (for qualifying older items)
Antique documentation/provenance (age and origin)
Wildlife import declaration
Customs declaration form

Next steps

1.Assume ivory souvenirs cannot be imported without CITES paperwork
2.Verify CITES rules with your destination and home country first
3.Obtain any required CITES certificate before you travel
4.Declare ivory items at customs and use designated wildlife ports
5.Avoid buying ivory abroad if you cannot document its legality

Official sources

Frequently Asked Questions About Elephant Ivory· U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
Check if you need a CITES permit to import or export endangered species· UK Government (gov.uk) / APHA
Bringing or mailing goods to Australia (wildlife and ivory prohibitions)· Australia DAFF

Always verify with the official authority for your destination.

Country-specific rules

The default posture above applies worldwide. For the exact rules at your destination, check the country guide.

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