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Government Proposes New Charges for Musical Instrument Certificates

The MU warns proposed fees of up to £200 could place an unfair burden on musicians travelling with instruments containing endangered materials.

Published: 02 October 2025 | 12:49 PM
Person walking into a venue with a cello case on their back.
Until now, MICs have been free of charge and valid for three years. Photo: Shutterstock.

The MU has serious concerns about Government proposals to introduce new charges for Musical Instrument Certificates (MICs).

If an instrument contains materials from endangered species (such as ivory, tortoiseshell, or Brazilian rosewood), musicians must obtain a MIC before crossing borders. Until now, these certificates have been free of charge and valid for three years.

On the 11 September, Government announced a consultation in which two options have been proposed:

  • Option 1: £61.00 per item
  • Option 2: £200 per application.

The MU will be responding to this consultation and has written to the Government to object to what we see as a further tax on musicians.

Learn more about what a Musical Instrument Certificate is, when it is needed, and how to apply before travelling.

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