- Import Intent
You intend to import Schedule 2 medicinal cannabis into the UK as a licensed importer under the Misuse of Drugs Regulations 2001.
- Home Office Controlled Drugs license (import)
- MHRA Wholesale Dealer's Authorisation (WDA(H))
- Named Responsible Person on license
- Confirm Scheduling
Medical cannabis in the UK is Schedule 2 under the Misuse of Drugs Regulations 2001. CBMPs (Cannabis-Based Medicinal Products) must be prescribed by a specialist on the Specialist Register.
- Schedule 2 — import/export license required per shipment
- Must be a CBMP: standardised, quality-controlled
- Prescriber must be GMC Specialist Register
- Hold Required Licenses
Before applying for shipment-specific import license, ensure all standing licenses are current.
- Home Office CD import license (annual)
- MHRA WDA(H) covering cannabis
- GDP compliance certificate
- Apply: Home Office Import License
Per-shipment import license application to the Home Office Drugs Licensing and Compliance Unit (DLCU). Submit via the Home Office online portal.
- Product name, form, strength, quantity
- Supplier details and exporting country authorization
- Consignee details in UK
- Expected shipment date
- Home Office Review (~10 days)
Standard processing time is 10 working days. Complex cases or new suppliers may take longer. Urgent requests accepted with justification.
- Respond to DLCU queries within stated timeframe
- Urgent pathway available for named patient supply
- License Granted?
Home Office issues or refuses the import license. Refusals are uncommon but may occur for documentation gaps or supplier concerns.
- Address Deficiencies
Respond to Home Office queries in writing. Common issues: missing supplier GMP certificate, unclear product specifications.
- License Issued
Per-shipment license valid for the specific quantity, supplier, and product. Must accompany the shipment.
- Original license required at UK customs
- Shipment must match license exactly
- Notify Home Office if shipment details change
- UK Customs Entry
Shipment enters via approved UK port of entry. Home Office license and full documentation presented at customs.
- Home Office import license (original)
- Exporting country export authorization
- COA, GMP certificate, airway bill
- Shipment Cleared ✓
Released to licensed UK importer. QP certification required before wholesale distribution to pharmacies.