Import Procedures

The Import control section issues Permits to Import in accordance with national policy guidelines under provision of the Plant Protection Act and Regulations. The Unit is also responsible for plant protection import control and enforcement issues and provides interpretation and advice respecting the Plant Protection Act and Regulations.

Import Permits

• Notice: Validation of Plant Protection Import Permits Prior to Import
• Frequently Asked Questions - Permit Application Process
  • Application for Permit to Import Plants and Other Things Under the Plant Protection Act (CFIA/ACIA 5256)
  • Information guide for importers of plant and related matter into Canada
  • D-97-04: Application, procedures, issuance and use of a permit to import under the Plant Protection Act
    • Biocontainment Standards
• Import Permit Requirements for Plants with Novel Traits

Import Policies

• Prohibited material from outside the continental US
• List of approved arthropod biological control agents from commercial sources* that do not fall under the mandate of the Plant Protection Act
• List of propagative plant material and other commodities that require an import permit if originating (i.e. place of propagation) from the Continental United States
• Organisms that do not require a plant protection permit to import
• Insects
  • Policy Decision Regarding the Importation of Live Insects for Feed/Bait or as Pets
  • List A - Lepidoptera for approved facilities
  • Pests Regulated By Canada
• Plant Protection Policy Directives
  • D-94-31: Exhibitions - Plant Protection Import Policy and Procedures

Import requirements and policies are the responsibility of the CFIA's Plant Health and Biosecurity Directorate - Import Control and Export Market Information.

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 Canada Border Services Agency, Environment Canada (e.g. endangered species) and Health Canada. Provincial governments may also have requirements in addition to those listed.