-
1. Preparing to import
-
2. Classifying your goods
-
3. Determining duties and taxes
-
4. Shipping and reporting your goods
-
5. Getting your goods released-CBSA
-
6. After your goods are released
-
CARM
-
Additional information
Import permits, restrictions, regulations
Determine whether the goods you intend to import are subject to any permits, restrictions or regulations
Many goods are subject to the requirements of other government departments and agencies and may require permits, certificates, and/or inspection. The CBSA is responsible for administering the legislated import requirements on behalf of other government departments.
It should be noted that more than one government department may have a role to play in the requirements and regulations pertaining to the importation of certain goods; it is therefore beneficial to contact any that may play a role.
You will need to determine whether or not the goods you want to import are subject to regulations, restrictions, permits or other requirements. The CBSA‘s Other Government Departments and Agencies: Reference List for Importers provides a list of some of the most commonly imported commodities that may require permits and/or certificates. More comprehensive information can be found in Memoranda Series D19, Acts and Regulations of Other Government Departments.
Additionally, if you are importing alcohol or tobacco products it is recommended that you check with the applicable authority in your province or territory.
The CBSA requires certain goods to be clearly marked with the country of origin. More information on marking requirements is found in Memorandum D11-3-1, Marking of Imported Goods.
Certain goods are subject to measures under the Special Import Measures Act (SIMA). The special measures available under the SIMA include anti-dumping duties, countervailing duties and undertakings. Consult the monthly index of products subject to SIMA and refer to Memoranda Series D14, Special Imports Measures Act and D15, Special Import Measures Act – Investigations for more information.
Before you import certain goods into Canada, you must determine whether they are subject to domestic controls. Under the Defence Production Act (DPA) and the Controlled Goods Regulations, any person who examines, possesses or transfers controlled goods domestically is legally required to register with Public Works and Government Service’s (PWGSC) Controlled Goods Program (CGP).
A full list of controlled items in Canada is available in the Schedule to the DPA and to further establish if the goods you will be importing are controlled in Canada, please see PWGSC‘s Guide to the New Schedule to the Defence Production Act.