Bringing Food, Plants, and Animals into the USA
» Other Biological Materials
Guide Sections ...   • Introduction   • One Piece Can Spell Danger   • Declarations & Fines   • Fruits, Veggies, & Plants   • Meat & Animal Products   • Live Animals and Birds   • Other Bio Materials   • Soil, Sand, Shells ...   • What You Can Bring Back Approved Items:     • General List     • From Canada     • From Mexico     • From Hawaii     • From Puerto Rico     • From Virgin Islands   • Appendix 1 - Information Contacts You must have a permit to bring in most organisms, cells and cultures, monoclonal antibodies, vaccines, and related substances, whether of plant or animal origin. This category includes organisms and products used in the biotechnology industry. For information and a permit application, contact NCIE or PPQ's permit unit. USDA does not require permits for dead insects, including butterflies. Biological specimens of plant pests, in preservatives or dried, may be imported without restrictions but are subject to inspection on arrival in the United States to confirm the nature of the material and make sure it is free of hitchhiking plant pests or diseases. Please remember to declare these items and present them for inspection. Collectors should check in advance with FWS to determine the procedures for specimens of threatened and endangered species.