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Health Sciences Authority

Approval to Possess

Find out more about the requirements for an Approval to Possess under the Biological Agents and Toxins Act.

Last updated on 31 October 2026

General

Possession, in relation to the Biological Agents and Toxins Act (opens in new tab) (BATA), includes activities such as owning, storing, handling and using First and Second Schedule biological agents and Fifth Schedule toxins.

Scope

Facilities intending to possess First or Second Schedule biological agents or Fifth Schedule toxins must obtain Approval to Possess from the Health Sciences Authority (HSA).

The List of Biological Agents and Toxins (opens in new tab) is available on the biosafety website. For hazardous biological agents not listed, consult HSA via the email available in the Contact Us page.

Requirements

Facilities must be registered with the HSA before applying for Approval to Possess.

Table 1. Requirements for Possession

Schedule

Requirements for Possession

Certified Facility

Protected Place

Special Approval to Handle

First Schedule Part 1

Yes*

No

No

First Schedule Part 2

Yes*

Yes

No

Second Schedule

Yes

Yes

Yes

Fifth Schedule

No

Yes

No

*Under Section 6(3) of the BATA (opens in new tab), Uncertified Facility may be granted an Approval to Possess a First Schedule biological agent if HSA is satisfied that any activity involving the use of the First Scheule biological agent can be carried out at the facility in a safe and proper manner.

For more details, visit the FAQ – Possession page.

Application

Facilities meeting the requirements in Table 1 can apply for Approval to Possess via the Healthcare Application and Licensing Portal-Biosafety Module (HALP-BS (opens in new tab)).

Fees

Currently, HSA does not charge fees for applications to Possess First or Second Schedule biological agents or Fifth Schedule toxins.

Processing Time

Processing time depends on the accuracy and the completeness of the submission. If all requirements are met, the application is typically processed within 7 working days for registered facilities. 

Validity

Approval validity is tied to the facility’s registration validity. HSA may revoke or suspend approval at its discretion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common queries on the FAQ page.

Related Information

  1. Certified Facility

  2. Uncertified Facility

  3. Biomanufacturing Facility

  4. Approval to Large-scale Produce

  5. Protected Place

  6. Special Approval to Handle

  7. Permit (Import/Transhipment)

  8. Transportation

  9. Inactivation

  10. Notification