Permission to export paintings (paintings) abroad from Ukraine

The House of Artists Gallery provides free advice on taking art abroad. With us you can find out:

  • whether it is possible to take a painting, drawing, icon and other art object abroad;
  • what documents are required by the customs service when crossing the border with art objects;
  • how long it takes to produce the documents.

Steps to take a painting abroad

Order expertiseChoose service delivery serviceCollect additional documentsPrepare data and photosSend painting abroad abroadPack pictureCheck possibility exportationOrganize authorization export authorization

Registration of permission to export paintings abroad

Gallery "House of Artists" helps in registration of a full package of documents for export of paintings (paintings and graphics), sculptures, author's photographs, decorative and applied art and other art objects from the territory of Ukraine. An important condition for export: the object of art must not be a cultural value of national scale. Also the object must have been created after 1950.

Today we observe that even for modern paintings and works of the mid-20th century a special permit is required to take it abroad, regardless of the method of transportation - by mail, private carrier, delivery service or personal transportation.

Call us and we will advise you: +38 067 766 2255

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Permission to export paintings abroad from an expert

There are two types of documents for exporting art objects abroad:

  • Permanent export - ordered when the artist has sold the painting abroad or the owner moves to another country. Such a document allows you to export the object permanently.
  • Temporary export ation - ordered for a certain period of time, for example, for participation in exhibitions. The document must contain the name of the gallery, address, dates of the exhibition and additional time for transportation.

Permanent authorization is preferable even for exhibitions, as it allows you to take out and sell the object of art if necessary.

What do I need to export paintings abroad?

Gallery "House of Artists" draws up documents for export in 1-2 days. To order a permit you need:

  • photos of the object (front, back side, signature, stamps);
  • Name of the artist (master);
  • name of the object;
  • dimensions;
  • year of creation;
  • materials, technique;
  • value.

In addition to authorization from the expert, you may need:

  • proof of value (appraisal, check, receipt, sales contract, invoice);
  • customs clearance (declaration for several paintings or in case of high value);
  • certificate of authenticity or copy document (when exporting reproductions).
  • For paintings with amber chips - a document on the legality of amber mining.

How to send a painting abroad from Ukraine?

To successfully send a painting abroad it is necessary:

  • To obtain an export permit from an expert.
  • Select a suitable delivery service (DHL, FedEx or specialized carriers).
  • Pack the painting according to international standards, using professional materials.

Our gallery provides packing services and advises on shipping anywhere in the world.

Examination of paintings for export abroad

Expertise is required to confirm that an art object is not a cultural value of national importance. It includes:

  • Estimation of the value of the painting.
  • Determination of authorship and authenticity.
  • Confirmation of materials and technique of execution.

Gallery "House of Artists" provides expert opinions necessary for execution of documents for export.

Where to get a certificate for the export of a painting?

We provide advice and full support in issuing certificates and permits for exporting paintings abroad. The certificate is issued within 1-2 working days.

We will advise on the issues of sending paintings by Ukrposhta and other carriers (DHL, Meest Express), provide information on what nuances you may encounter when sending works to different countries of the world according to the latest changes in legislation.

Frequent questions:

What language should the document for exporting a painting be in? Do I need to translate the authorization into other languages?
This document is needed only for Ukrainian customs, therefore, it must be in Ukrainian. Abroad the permit for export from Ukraine is not valid, because its legal force is limited to the territory of Ukraine.
I have paintings made of amber (amber painting). How can I get a document for export?
In addition to the expert's conclusion that the painting is not a cultural value of national scale, you will need a document confirming the legality of the extraction of amber chips. This is due to the fact that amber is prohibited to export from Ukraine. However, souvenir products with amber chips can be exported. When buying an amber picture, the seller must provide a receipt, and these documents will be sufficient.
I have a picture embroidered in cross stitch, thread or a child's drawing. How do I take them out?
Such items obviously do not represent cultural value on a national scale. Therefore, documents for their export are not required. However, if there are difficulties with shipment or delivery, you can contact the gallery "House of Artists" to produce a permit.
What documents are required for temporary export of a painting abroad?
For temporary exportation you need a document that specifies: the title of the painting and its author, the exact location of the exhibition (country, city, gallery address), the dates of the exhibition and additional time for transportation. A customs declaration, proof of the painting's value and a certificate of authenticity may also be required.
What penalties may arise if a painting is exported without authorization?
Exporting artwork without proper authorization can result in confiscation, fines, and in some cases, legal action. Therefore, it is important to consult with experts in advance and draw up all documents.
What kind of packaging should be used to send a painting abroad?
For shipment it is recommended to use special cardboard or wooden boxes, sealing materials (bubble wrap, foam plastic) and wrap the picture in acid-free paper to protect the surface. Gallery "House of Artists" provides professional packing services.