Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Trying to traverse the CITES website is like trying to read through mud. What would an individual in Indiana have to do to aquire a CITES permit to import ball pythons? What is required? I've looked through these archives and on search engines and the CITES site to no avail.

NP

I am by no means an expert and have only gone through the process once. I am probably a little bit off, but this is what I had to do in California.
First you need to apply for an Import/Export liscence from Fish and Wildlife. Then I had to print out a Declaration Form from their website. It is very important to have the Declaration filled out before you meet the officer who will inspect the shipment.
Now as far as CITIES paperwork, that has to be obtained by whoever will be shipping the reptiles.
I would ask to be faxed a copy of the CITIES, and then make a copy or two of the Declaration just in case. The Import/Export liscence cost around $110 and the Declaraion was $55 (to have the officer meet you). If it is after hours or the weekend they will charge an additional $60. The officer was very cool to me and helped me through even though I did not have any of the Declaration filled.
Finally, if the shipment is worth more than $2500, you will need a Broker to get the shipment bonded. That is something I donot know about.
Good luck,
Tom

NM

then try to find someone in Africa that is not going to screw you and take your money. If you're looking to buy morphs from Africa, it's far from easy, almost impossible. There are only a few that have this luxury, if you're looking for normal balls at cheap prices you are better off buying from someone when they first come in.You will save yourself a big headache for a first timer, trust me.

Mike Brooks
TNS Reptiles
Long Island, NY
631-732-4233

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