• Who we are
• What we do
  • Our role as regulator
  • Our role to provide guidance and advice
  • Our role as an improved information provider
  • IVF the law
• Committees and papers
• Our public events
• Requesting information
• How we work with others

The HFEA is the UK’s independent regulator of treatment using eggs and sperm, and of treatment and research involving human embryos.

We set standards for, and issue licences to, fertility clinics.

• About the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (140 Kb)

Our responsibilities

Our current statutory functions as a regulator under the HFE Acts 1990 and 2008 and other legislation are to:

• license and monitor clinics carrying out in vitro fertilisation (IVF) and donor insemination
• license and monitor establishments undertaking human embryo research
• maintain a register of licences held by clinics, research establishments and storage centres
• regulate storage of gametes (eggs and sperm) and embryos
• implement the requirements of the European Union Tissue and Cells Directive (EUTCD) to relicense IVF clinics and to license Intrauterine Insemination (IUI), Gamete Intrafallopian Transfer (GIFT) and other services.

Our principles

• We treat people and their information with sensitivity, respect and confidentiality
• We observe the highest standards of integrity and professionalism in putting into effect the law as it governs our sector
• We consult widely - listening to and learning from those with an interest in what we do 
• We keep abreast of scientific and clinical advances, and
• We exercise our functions consistently, proportionately, openly and fairly.

Further information:

• HFE Act (and other legislation)
• FAQs about licensing and regulation
• Code of Practice
• European Union Tissue and Cells Directive
• Treatment options
• How we regulate (treatment and research)
• Who we license (list as of 31 March 2013)

Page last updated: 02 April 2013

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