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SPIRE - Background Information

SPIRE is the Export Control Organisation’s fully electronic system for processing strategic export licence applications. It went live on 3rd September 2007 and replaced all previous methods of applying for licences processed by the ECO within BERR.

In designing SPIRE, we looked to address the majority of issues raised as ‘areas to improve’ in our previous systems and processes. As a result, SPIRE should feel intuitive to use and have consistent questions across the different applications (wherever possible).  It provides facilities that make applying for licences far more straightforward and will reduce the risk of errors being introduced through the need to transcribe paper forms.  It also means that licences cannot possibly be lost anymore as paper licences will not be issued, only electronic licences.

At the highest level, SPIRE works as follows:

  • Licence applications are made using the SPIRE application accessed via the internet.
  • The application forms have been made easier to complete and more consistent. All information is secured as you move between screens on SPIRE, so you are able to complete an application form over a number of sessions if you need to. You also have the ability to access previous applications and information you may have sent us and use this in new application forms. This should prove very useful to help you complete the forms quickly and efficiently.
  • Once automatically validated by SPIRE, the licence application (and any supporting documentation) will be sent electronically to BERR over a highly secure link.
  • All the processing within BERR and Other Government Departments will be electronic using SPIRE.
  • Paper licences are replaced by digitally signed electronic licences. The master copy of the licence is held at BERR. A copy of the electronic licence will also be held by HMRC (who are also be able to access SPIRE).
  • There is limited application tracking information made available on SPIRE so you can to see, at a very high level, how your application is progressing.

To help answer any questions you can access a comprehensive set of Frequently Asked Questions which include questions about apply for a licence and about SPIRE.

See the Related Documents for guidance on:

  • Creating a company registration on SPIRE
  • Additional Information for SPIRE
  • Enabling pop-ups on SPIRE
  • Registering to use OGELs on SPIRE

For queries about SPIRE, contact the ECO.

 

Export Control Organisation

Updated: October 2007

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