Import requirements for Crocus sativus bulbs

Import requirements for Crocus sativus bulbs

Shipping Crocus sativus bulbs (saffron bulbs) internationally is more than just placing an order—it involves navigating a range of import regulations, plant health standards, and documentation requirements. Each country has its own rules, and understanding them is essential for a smooth delivery and successful planting.

At Roco Saffron, we’ve shipped saffron bulbs across the globe. We work closely with authorities and customers to ensure full compliance with each country’s import laws. Below, we’ve outlined the most common requirements for major destinations.

Common import requirements for saffron bulbs

While specific rules vary, these are the most frequently required documents for importing Crocus sativus bulbs:

  • Phytosanitary certificate – Proof that the bulbs are disease-free and pest-free
  • Import permit – Required in some countries - Buying from USA or UK? We take care of it!
  • Customs declaration – Standard for international freight
  • Country-specific inspection – Some require post-arrival inspection


Let’s take a closer look at the requirements by region:

Country Import permit Phytosanitary certificate What you need to know
🇺🇸 United States ✅ Yes (but we will fix that for you) ✅ Always included We'll take care of all the paperwork.
🇨🇦 Canada ✅ Often for commercial use ✅ Always included Clean bulbs and CFIA inspection. Simple process with our support.
🇪🇺 EU ❌ Not required ✅ Always included Easy shipping within EU. We ensure full compliance for non-EU exports.
🇬🇧 United Kingdom ✅ Yes (but we will fix that for you) ✅ Always included We'll take care of all the paperwork.
🇮🇳 India ✅ For large volumes ✅ Always included Plant quarantine on arrival. We provide full support.
🇵🇰 Pakistan ✅ Often required ✅ Always included Import permit from Department of Plant Protection. We’ll help you apply.
🇲🇦 Morocco ✅ May be needed ✅ Always included Local authorization sometimes required. We advise per region.
🇹🇷 Turkey ✅ Case-by-case ✅ Always included We’ve shipped to Turkish growers before—ask us for region-specific guidance.
🇮🇷 Iran ✅ Required ✅ Always included Import only permitted in specific zones. We offer support for approved growers.
🇨🇳 China ✅ Often required ✅ Always included Strict customs rules. We provide all documents and labeling in Chinese if needed.
🇯🇵 Japan ✅ Yes ✅ Always included Very strict on soil-free bulbs. Our packaging meets all MAFF standards.
🇰🇷 South Korea ✅ Yes ✅ Always included Smooth process when well-documented—we offer support.
🇮🇩 Indonesia ✅ Required ✅ Always included We help navigate agricultural authority approvals.
🇦🇪 UAE ✅ For commercial import ✅ Always included Our documentation is fully accepted by UAE authorities.
🇸🇦 Saudi Arabia ✅ Often required ✅ Always included We help with registration through the Ministry of Agriculture.
🇶🇦 Qatar ✅ Sometimes needed ✅ Always included Seamless if paperwork is in order—we offer support.
🇦🇺 Australia ✅ Mandatory ✅ Always included Requires advance approval from DAFF. We offer support.
🇳🇿 New Zealand ✅ Required ✅ Always included Stringent biosecurity. We’ve shipped here successfully with full support.
🇧🇷 Brazil ✅ Required ✅ Always included MAPA oversees plant imports. We offer support and ensure bulbs meet their criteria.
🇲🇽 Mexico ✅ Sometimes required ✅ Always included Straightforward with our guidance and full documents.
🇿🇦 South Africa ✅ Yes ✅ Always included We offer support DAFF inspection process from start to finish.


You don’t need to worry about the paperwork

At Roco Saffron, we don’t just ship—we support your entire import journey. Not sure what applies to your country? No worries—we’ve shipped to over 30 countries and know the procedures well.

  • When buying from the USA or UK, we take care of the import permit;
  • We provide official phytosanitary certificates with every shipment;
  • We use clean, soil-free packing and follow country-specific handling rules;
  • We have experience navigating customs and plant health inspections worldwide;
  • We can help guide you through the import permit application if needed.

Whether you’re ordering 100,000 saffron bulbs or more, our logistics team will make sure everything is fast, compliant, and worry-free.

Have questions about your country’s import rules? Contact us—we’re here to help, and we’ve done this many times before.

Back to blog

Leave a comment