I recall a thread on here recently that outlined restrictions and regulations, regarding the import of plant material from outside of the United States. Unfortunately, I could not find it again.

What I need to know is what is allowed as far as purchasing seeds from abroad? Specifically, I am interested in purchasing seeds of some edible perennials (not figs) from England, France and possibly Germany. Are there forms that have to be filled out, required fees and/or quarantine requirements?

I know there is little or no chance of invasive bugs, as I am only interested in bringing seeds in. However, I would prefer to avoid a visit from friendly government agents who will take what I have purchased. If it cannot be done legally and economically, I'll live without these varieties.

http://www.figs4funforum.websitetoolbox.com/post/help-6606949?highlight=thevicster

Thank you for the link. So, if I read the USDA site correctly, the following is true:

1) You may bring in small amounts of seeds, if labeled correctly
2) Seeds must be free of extra materials, such as potting media
3) Meeting the first two criteria, generally, gets you a waiver of restrictions

It would appear as long as you are not bringing in materials that may harbor pests and it is a relatively small amount (less than 50 seeds of anything), they would prefer to not bother with it. If this is incorrect, please someone tell me.

you can get plant material other than seeds from other countries, there's just a lot of red tape and paper work involved if you do it legit. 

I know it is a lot of red tape and hoops to import plants and/or cuttings. Not interested in the big stuff.

Is there anything I would need to do before purchasing a packet or two of seeds? I won't bother to pay for permits and such, just to get a few seeds of hard-to-find plants. Just want to know for sure before investing a few bucks, possibly unnecessarily.

The Rules in the USDA Plants for Planting Manual. See Table 2-7 (Ficus is a host material) and then Table 2-10. Then, for the 8 countries listed, Table 2-11 or 2-12. For all other countries, the answer is NO.

If you are importing from Canada see Table 2-8 and Table 2-9.

Updated Plants for Planting Manual 09/2013

I wouldn't advise it, you could lose all your plants. But there's a really low chance of that actually happening. Its always good to talk to the seller.

In reviewing the documents, it is not worth the hassle or expense to attempt to acquire a handful of seeds from Europe. I imagine that the rules are so restrictive, in order to dissuade most folks from exploring beyond the Burpee catalog and growing for ethanol production. Oh well. I guess if one cannot grow an exotic kale, then the terrorists (humans or insect) have truly won.

If you are looking for a certain variety of kale you may wish to check out Seed Savers Exchange. I was a member last year and can look to see if anyone is sharing the type you want. You could then join and ask for the seed, which might be less bother than going the "legal" route. Their book is as large as a printed White Pages. You may also want to contact an heirloom seed company and see if they are interested in bringing in the seed. Companies like Baker Creek may be interested in the seed. http://www.rareseeds.com/store/vegetables/kale/

John, I second the SSE suggestion. They have a new site of listings searchable by members and nonmembers alike.
https://exchange.seedsavers.org/index.aspx

J.L. Hudson is anothe good source for random hard to find varieties.
jlhudsonseeds.com

Seed Savers Exchange is a great resource. Thank you both for the tip. After some research, I have also found a couple of other domestic sources. Though they are not as economical as foreign eBay venders, they are totally legal, which was my preference anyway.