International Exports
*The following is an overview of the export process for night vision devices, thermal optics, image intensifier tubes, and related equipment exported from the United Kingdom*
Night vision and thermal products are classified under UK Strategic Export Control regulations as “Dual-Use Goods.” Dual-use items are products, software, or technology that may have both civilian and military applications. As a result, exports of these items from the UK are regulated by the UK Export Control Joint Unit (ECJU) under UK strategic export legislation.
Due to this classification, nearly all night vision systems, thermal devices, image intensifier tubes, and certain related accessories exported outside the United Kingdom require export authorisation prior to shipment.
Some products containing US-origin technology may additionally remain subject to United States export controls including ITAR or EAR restrictions. Products containing restricted US-origin Gen 3 technology may not be exported, transferred, or re-exported contrary to applicable regulations.
Open General Export Licence (OGEL)
NXW exports eligible dual-use night vision and thermal products under applicable UK Open General Export Licences (OGELs) where permitted.
Under the OGEL framework, exports to approved countries (including European Union member states) benefit from pre-authorized export permissions. This means export approval is effectively instantaneous once the order, destination, and end-user documentation have been verified.
For most civilian exports to eligible EU destinations, this removes the lengthy individual export licence application process normally associated with controlled goods exports.
Eligible destinations generally include:
- ALL European Union member states
- Australia
- Canada
- Japan
- New Zealand
- Norway
- Switzerland
- United States
End User Statement (EUS)
For exports covered under OGEL or other export authorizations, customers are still be required to provide a completed End User Statement (EUS).
The End User Statement confirms:
- the identity of the final end user;
- the delivery destination;
- intended civilian end use;
- acknowledgement of applicable export restrictions.
The document must be fully completed and signed before export processing can begin.
Electronic copies in PDF or image format are acceptable unless otherwise requested.
Export Processing Times
Eligible OGEL / EU Exports
For qualifying exports to eligible destinations, export approval is generally immediate once the required documentation has been received and verified. Orders are typically dispatched shortly afterwards.
Non-Eligible Destinations or Controlled Configurations
Exports outside eligible OGEL destinations, or exports involving more tightly controlled products, may require an individual export license application through the UK Export Control Joint Unit (ECJU).
These applications may take several days or weeks depending on:
- destination country;
- item classification;
- end-use review;
- government processing times.
NXW will provide updates and license reference information where applicable.
How the Process Works
1. Place Your Order
Submit your order through the website or directly with NXW.
2. Submit Documentation
Provide a completed and signed End User Statement (EUS).
The EUS will be emailed to you post purchase, you can make this process faster by filling out the form prior to purchase.
You can find it here: NXW End User Statement
3. Export Review
NXW reviews the order under applicable UK export regulations to determine whether:
- the shipment qualifies under an applicable OGEL; or
- an individual export licence is required.
4. Shipment
Once export clearance has been confirmed, the order will be dispatched.
Customers are responsible for ensuring compliance with all import laws, taxes, duties, and local regulations within the destination country.
Customs, VAT & Duties
International orders may be subject to import VAT, customs duties, brokerage fees, or local taxes upon arrival in the destination country.
Where applicable, NXW may provide origin declarations or supporting customs documentation to assist with import processing and potential duty reductions.
Export Compliance Notice
NXW reserves the right to refuse or cancel any order where export authorisation cannot be obtained or where a transaction may breach UK, EU, US, or international export control regulations.
By purchasing from NXW, the customer agrees to comply with all applicable export control laws and acknowledges that controlled goods may not be resold, transferred, exported, or used in violation of applicable sanctions or export restrictions.