Application Questions

Where can I find the import permit application?

The Import Permit Program (IPP) uses a secure electronic permitting system, BioPermit, to conduct all program business. This two-way portal, accessible by both the program and those seeking import permits, is used to submit and share information. As of January 2026, the only way to apply for a CDC import permit is by using this system.

All applicants must have a SAMS (Secure Access Management Services) account to access the BioPermit system and submit a permit application. SAMS protects your information by requiring a user ID and password, or other secure credentials, before granting system access. If you do not yet have a SAMS account and need one to begin a new application, please contact us.

Only applications submitted via BioPermit will be accepted.

How can I check the status of my application?

Real-time status updates are available on the "My Permit Applications" page in BioPermit. Options that can appear include:

• In Progress: Application was successfully submitted to CDC.
• Information Requested: Information has been requested in the application's permittee response section. The application cannot be processed until the information is received. An email will be sent notifying you that information has been requested with instructions on how to fulfill the request.
• Pending: The initial review of the application is complete, but the permit has not been issued.
• Granted: The permit has been issued and can be retrieved from BioPermit.
• Revoked/Suspended/Denied: You will be notified with further details if any of these statuses apply to you. The permit, if previously issued, is no longer valid and may not be used.
• Closed: The application was administratively closed because a permit was not required or essential information needed for review of the application was not supplied within 30 days of the request.
• Withdrawn: The permittee submitted a request to remove the application from consideration for an import permit.

The permit holder at my company is about to retire. Can their SAMS account and permit be transferred to someone else at the company?

No. Currently, SAMS accounts cannot be transferred from one individual to another. The permit cannot be transferred to someone else at the company. Therefore, someone at the company would need to obtain a SAMS account and submit an application to obtain a permit.

I'm moving to a different university. Can I still use the same SAMS account for my import permits?

Yes, but your contact information will need to be updated under "My Profile" in SAMS. Changes to your account email must also be requested through SAMS.

Can I upload supporting documentation in BioPermit?

Yes. While completing your application, you may upload supporting documents using the "Add attachments" feature at the bottom of the application.

Additionally, if IPP determines that additional documentation is required when reviewing your application, you will receive a request through BioPermit and email with specific instructions on how to upload documents.

How do I ensure a complete application is submitted to the CDC Import Permit Program?

Required fields are marked by red asterisks (*) in BioPermit. Applications can only be submitted when all required fields are completed. Once you have submitted your application, you will receive an email confirming that the program has received your application.

Additional assistance with filling out the application is available from the Import Permit Program by email at importpermit@cdc.gov or telephone at (404) 718-2077.

How do I account for multiple senders shipping imported materials to our facility?

If the imported material is being sent from more than one sender, select "Add" on the "Sender Information" table to add additional senders. There are no limits on the number of senders that can be entered.

How do I account for multiple agents that our facility will receive?

If your facility will receive multiple agents, select "Add" on the "Infectious Biological Agents and Materials" table to add additional infectious biological agents. There are no limits on the number of agents/vectors that can be entered.

I have an existing import permit that is about to expire. How do I request a renewal?

You cannot renew a permit received through our previous electronic system, eIPP, in BioPermit. However, after you have an issued permit in BioPermit, you can request to renew it by selecting "Renew Agents Application" on your BioPermit home page.

To prevent lapses in the import permit status, it is recommended that permit renewal applications be submitted at least 30 days prior to the expiration date on the current permit.