Frequently Asked Questions About Permits to Import

Note: The importation of plants and plant products including other regulated commodities may also be subject to other Acts and Regulations administered and enforced by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency including other Federal departments such as Revenue Canada Customs and Excise, Environment Canada (e.g., endangered species) and Health Canada. Provincial governments may also have requirements in addition to those listed herein.

How do I know if I need a Permit to Import?

The CFIA’s import requirements for commodities are contained in the Automated Import Reference System (AIRS). Click on the "Help" button for instructions on how to use AIRS.

Application

Application for a Permit - PDF format - if you have Adobe Acrobat Reader, you can download the application form and print it. To get Adobe Acrobat Reader, download it from Adobe's website. Please note that in order to process your application it must be printed in capital letters or typed. Illegible applications will result in delayed processing. Paper Size - 8.5" x 14".

Basic Fees for Permits to Import issued pursuant to the Plant Protection Regulations

$15	-	applications/permits for scientific research purposes (i.e. universities)
$35	-	applications/permits for purposes other than research
$10	-	amendment to a permit ($35 if amendment has to be reviewed by a commodity officer)
$250	-	applications/permits where a Pest Risk Analysis (PRA) is required or has been done in the past 2 years
no fee for federal departments and departmental corporations (must be stated clearly on application)

Processing times for applications

Once all required information has been received and a review of the permit application form has been completed by the Plant Health Division, the CFIA will endeavour to issue a Permit to Import within five working days during the period from June to December and within ten working days during the period from January to May.

Therefore, a person is advised to apply for a Permit to Import well in advance (e.g., 6 weeks) of the shipment being exported from the country of origin.

Incomplete applications

All incomplete applications will be returned to the applicant accompanied by the "Incomplete Import Permit Application" form. Applications that are not printed in capital letters or typed will be considered incomplete. When resending an application, always write "REVISED" on top of the application form.

Where to send the completed application

BY FAX: 613-228-6605	BY MAIL: Plant Health Division Permit Office 59 Camelot Drive Nepean, Ontario K1A 0Y9
Do not mail an application that has been faxed. Keep the original for your records. Be sure to get confirmation from your own fax machine that the document has been received by the Permit Office.

Owner: Johanne Coulombe