Horse import licences will be available online from Monday 2nd February.

The development is in line with the Isle of Man Government’s policy of making it easier for people to access services digitally.
Horse import licences are required under the Equine (Importation) Order 1973.

The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture (DEFA) licences imports of horses, ponies and donkeys to protect against the introduction of equine diseases.

Last year, more than 450 licences were issued.

Stuart Jaques, Chief Veterinary Officer at DEFA, said: ‘The Department recognises the need for this service to be available at weekends and bank holidays. Making the horse import licences available online for applicants is an ideal way to make them more accessible.

‘Having access to the name and address of importers is key in case of emergency. It enables us to quickly identify which horses have come in recently, and where they are. It also enables us to contact owners of horses intending to travel, so they can change plans earlier if a disease situation has occurred.’

To apply for a horse import licence online, visit http://www.gov.im/horseimports

An importer must supply an Isle of Man address and be the owner or part-owner of the equine.

Licences are valid for 30 days.