Can I Import Seeds or Plants?

Importation of seeds, plants and plant materials is regulated to prevent the introduction of pests and diseases into the country. Plant and products include a range of goods from live plants, all seeds for propagation, cut flowers and foliage, peas, beans, fruits, vegetables and lumber.

You are required to:

  1. Obtain an import permit for the seeds in question. This must be done first.
  2. Obtain a phytosanitary certificate from your supplier
  3. Submit the purchase invoice and the above two documents to Web Source. These can be uploaded within the Prealert section of your Web Source Account

These documents must be submitted to Web Source within 3 business days of your item(s) arriving in Miami. All seeds will be discarded if the above documents are not received within this timeframe.

How to Apply for a Plant Import Permit

Applicants must submit an electronic application for this permit via TTBizLink through the ePermits and Licences Module. Applicants are required to:

  1. Register for a ttconnect ID at http://www.ttbizlink.gov.tt/ttconnectregister upon which a unique ttconnect identification number is assigned to the user. Note: Only one (1) ttconnect ID is required for any of TTBizLink Services.
  2. Register with TTBizLink to access the e-Permits and Licence module. TTBizLink Registration forms can be accessed by clicking any of the following links for an Individual or a Company.
  3. Log on to TTBizLink and select the e-Import/Permits and Licences link
  4. Apply for the Plant Import Permit along with any supporting documentation.

Import Permit Approved - What's Next?

A copy of the Plant Import Permit must be presented to the Exporter (Country of Export) to ensure that the Exporter can meet the phytosanitary conditions for entry into T&T. A phytosanitary certificate is issued by the authorities (Plant Quarantine Service) of the exporting country and must be presented together with the import permit when the item is landed into T&T.

Only upon receipt of all documents above will we be able to commence shipment of your seeds from Miami. Important Details You are ultimately responsible for ensuring the accuracy of the documents provided. Please ensure your import permit is valid for a sufficient timeframe to facilitate the shipment of your item(s) from Miami. Steps to obtain an Import Permit You are required to follow any special instructions listed on your import permit. PDF Download Ask your supplier to send the phytosanitary certificate with the seeds. Also request that they email you a copy as well. If for any reason your supplier is unable to issue this certificate, we advise you to utilise a different supplier. Locally, Customs can seize and destroy seeds with incomplete or fraudulent documentation, so please ensure the accuracy of your documentation prior to submission. In the event your items are seized by Customs, please note our invoice charges are still payable. While this process may seem somewhat tedious, it is imperative that the correct procedure is followed to avoid any difficulties with your shipment. If you have any questions, please contact us at customerservice@shipwebsource.com.