The competent federal office verifies whether the requirements of Articles 4–7 and 13 have been met. In doing so, it takes account of the opinions received from the specialist agencies.
The competent federal office decides on the authorisation application within 90 days of confirmation of its completeness. Authorisation is valid for a maximum of five years.
If there is a risk in delay, and in particular if a rapid diagnosis of new microorganisms is required, the competent federal office may, following a provisional examination of the risk determination and assessment and having informed the specialist agencies, grant authorisation limited until the conclusion of the ordinary procedure.
The competent federal office communicates its decision to the applicant, the specialist agencies and the Federal Coordination Centre for Biotechnology.