Is a Cockatiel Legal in the UK? CITES Rules 2026
Cockatiels are legal in the UK, but import requires a UK-specific CITES import permit. Post-Brexit, EU Article 10 Certificates are no longer valid in the UK.
Cockatiels (Nymphicus hollandicus) are listed under CITES Appendix II. Captive-bred cockatiels are legal to keep and travel with, but require CITES documentation — specifically proof of captive-bred origin (Article 10 Certificate in EU, or equivalent). Wild-caught cockatiels are strictly prohibited from trade under CITES.
- ⚠️ CITES status: Appendix II
- ⚠️ Captive-bred cert: Required for cross-border movement
- ⚠️ CITES import permit: Required in non-EU countries (UK, USA, Australia)
- ✅ EU movement: Article 10 Certificate + pet passport
UK Rules for Cockatiels
UK: Cockatiel Legal Status
⚠️ Legal but requires CITES import permit.
- CITES import permit — required to bring a cockatiel into the UK (all CITES II species).
- CITES export permit from country of origin.
- APHA-approved premises for import/handling (commercial).
- Vet health certificate.
- Note: EU Article 10 certs are not valid in UK post-Brexit — need UK-specific CITES permits.
Official sources
- UK Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) — Import of pet animals ↗
- CITES UK — species permits ↗
- EU CITES Management Authority ↗
- CITES Species Database ↗
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FAQ
Can I own a cockatiel in the UK?
Yes. Cockatiels are very popular pets in the UK.
Do I need a CITES permit to bring a cockatiel to the UK?
Yes. You need a UK CITES import permit from APHA and a CITES export permit from the origin country.
Is my EU Article 10 Certificate valid for bringing a bird to the UK?
No. Post-Brexit, EU Article 10 Certificates are not accepted in the UK for import. You need UK-specific CITES permits.
Can I buy a cockatiel in the UK without CITES paperwork?
Yes — buying a domestically-bred UK cockatiel doesn't require CITES paperwork for the buyer. The seller should have Article 10 documentation for commercial sales.