Plants > Imports 

Information Guide for Importers of Plant
and Related Matter into Canada

Permit to Import

Your Permit to Import authorizes you to import those plants or other matter listed on your application form (unless you are notified otherwise). You will receive a letter informing you of any thing listed on your application that is not admissible and the reason for the rejection.

No person, other than an inspector shall alter, deface or erase any information or statement on a Permit to Import.

If using a broker it is your responsibility to provide the broker with your Permit to Import number and/or a copy of the Permit to Import. The Permit Office cannot provide this information to your broker on your behalf.

Time of Entry into Canada:

You must present your permit number to Customs and/or CFIA inspectors at the time the material enters Canada. Presenting a copy of your Permit to Import should facilitate a quicker release of your material.

Your material may be subject to inspection at the time of entry into Canada or at destination of the material.

Where an inspector authorized under the Plant Protection Act has specified in writing a place at which the material is to be examined no person shall

1. move the material to any place except the place specified; or
2. open any container or unpack any packages of the material without the consent of the inspector.

Inform your exporter of the following:

• your permit number and any certification requirements as outlined in your permit.
• the Phytosanitary Certificate(s), if required, must accompany the shipment.
• the permit number must be marked on all containers and shipping papers.

Questions about import Procedures:

Contact one of the following national service centres: