This is especially the case with the following:

• Live reptiles
• Clothes, bags and belts from reptile leather
• Stuffed animal trophies and hides 
• Articles from ivory or tortoiseshell
• Live plants such as orchids or cactuses

To import such animals or articles, an import permit from the FVO is always absolutely essential and in some cases also an export permit from the country of consignment, for plants an export permit from the country of consignment.

If these permits are not obtained in advance, these articles, animals or plants must be withheld at customs or at a species protection inspection.

A retroactive import permit may be obtained from the FVO, but especially in the case of articles, animals or plants that have been paid in advance or with cash, the supplier is often not prepared for his part to then apply for an export permit.

Articles, animals and plants for which the necessary documents are missing must be returned or confiscated.