Import Controls
Certain goods may be prohibited or controlled, or require special permits, inspections or conditions to be met in order to allow them into Canada. Please consult one or more of the following references, as appropriate:
Goods That Require Special Attention or Approval
- Automated Import Reference System
The purpose of the Automated Import Reference System (AIRS) is to provide accurate and timely information on import requirements. The application uses a question and answer approach to guide the user through a series of questions about the Harmonized System (HS) Codes, country of origin or destination, end use and miscellaneous qualifiers of the product they wish to import. - Canada Firearms Centre
The Canadian Firearms Centre has regulations on importing firearms. - Energy Related Products
Natural Resources’ Office of Energy Efficiency also maintains the "Importers Corner", which provides information on Importing Requirements for Regulated Energy-Products. - Export and Import Controls Bureau
Before importing goods, it must first be determined whether or not the product you wish to import requires an import permit, and secondly what control type applies. The Export and Import Controls Bureau (EICB) monitors the trade in certain goods and ensures the personal security of Canadians and citizens of other countries by restricting trade in dangerous goods and other materials. The site assists the importer in identifying controlled products by providing information regarding permits, regulations, forms, list of customs brokers, and other useful links. - Export and Import Legislation Information
The Department of Justice Canada’s site provides the Export and Import Permits Act addressing the specific regulations, control lists and general import permits legislation. - Food, Agricultural and Aquatic Commodities
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) Web site contains information on importing food into Canada. They provide information on import by commodity, import procedures, and useful guides to assist food importers. There is also information on the regulations concerning the importation of pets. - Health Related Products and Devices
Health Canada’s information contains information about the import of controlled substances, human pathogens, drugs and medical devices. - Importing a Vehicle into Canada
Transport Canada provides information regarding importing and exporting vehicles into Canada. The site provides reference information on the Motor Vehicle Safety Act and reporting procedures for importing vehicles through the Registrar of Imported Vehicles. - Regulation of Explosives
The Explosives Regulatory Division (ERD) in Natural Resources Canada administers Canada's Explosives Act and Regulations. The ERD provides services and support to the explosives industry for manufacturers, importers, distributors and users of all types of explosives. - Spectrum Management and Telecommunications
The Spectrum Management and Telecommunications (S/T) of Industry Canada facilitates access to the radiofrequency spectrum by issuing authorities for its use, securing Canada's access to it through international negotiations and by ensuring its continued health, in Canada, through the preparation and enforcement of standards. - Wildlife, Endangered Species and Plants
The Canadian Wildlife Service maintains the “Traveling, Importing and Exporting” page which provides links to publications concerning animals and plants that are in danger of extinction, such as the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) and the Wild Animal and Plant Protection and Regulation of International and Interprovincial Trade Act (WAPPRIITA).
