G/LIC/N/3/CAN/22  
 
22 September 2023  
(23-6324) Page: 1/57 
Committee on Import Licensing  Original: English  
 
REPLIES TO QUESTIONNAIRE ON IMPORT LICENSING PROCEDURES1 
NOTIFICATION UNDER ARTICLE 7.3 OF THE AGREEMENT  
ON IMPORT LICENSING PROCEDURES (2023)  
CANADA  
The following communication, dated 11 September 2023 is being circulated at the request of the 
delegation of Canada.  
 
_______________  
 
Introduction  
 
Import licences are administered by a limited number of government departments, and they vary in 
certain particulars from department to department. Consequently, replies to the Questionn aire have 
been organized according to the different legislative instruments under which import licences are 
maintained.  
 
_______________  
 
  
 
1 See G/LIC/3, Annex, for the Questionnaire.  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/22  
 
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  TABLE OF CONTENTS  
1   CONTROLLED DRUGS AND SUBSTANCES ACT AND THE CANNABIS ACT  .......................  2 
2   FOOD AND DRUGS ACT  ................................ ................................ ................................  7 
3   ASSISTED HUMAN REPRODUCTION ACT  ................................ ................................ ...... 9 
4   GROWER REQUESTED OWN USE (GROU) PROGRAM  ................................ ..................  11 
5   EXPLOSIVES ACT  ................................ ................................ ................................ ....... 14 
6   NUCLEAR SAFETY AND CONTROL ACT  ................................ ................................ ....... 16 
7   CANADIAN ENERGY REGULATOR ACT  ................................ ................................ ........  18 
8   EXPORT AND IMPORT PERMITS ACT  ................................ ................................ ..........  21 
8.1   General Responses Applicable to Dairy Products and Margarine; Chicken, Turkey, Eggs 
and Broiler Hatching Eggs and Chicks; Beef and Veal; and Wheat, Barley and their products  .......21 
8.2   Other Responses – by Product Groups  ................................ ................................ ........... 24 
8.2.1   Dairy Products  ................................ ................................ ................................ ......... 24 
8.2.2    Chicken, Turkey and Eggs  ................................ ................................ ......................... 25 
8.2.3    Beef and Veal  ................................ ................................ ................................ .......... 27 
8.2.4    Wheat, Barley and their Products  ................................ ................................ ............... 29 
8.2.5    Textiles  ................................ ................................ ................................ .................. 31 
8.2.6    Clothing  ................................ ................................ ................................ .................. 33 
8.2.7    Carbon and Specialty Steel  ................................ ................................ ....................... 36 
8.2.8    Aluminum  ................................ ................................ ................................ ............... 37 
9   PLANT PROTECTION ACT  ................................ ................................ ...........................  38 
10   HEALTH OF ANIMALS ACT  ................................ ................................ .......................  40 
11   SAFE FOOD FOR CANADIANS ACT  ................................ ................................ ............  45 
12   WILD ANIMAL AND PLANT PROTECTION AND REGULATION OF INTERNATIONAL  
AND INTERPROVINCIAL  TRADE ACT  ................................ ................................ ..............  48 
13   EXPORT AND IMPORT OF ROUGH DIAMONDS ACT  ................................ ...................  50 
14   FISHERIES ACT  ................................ ................................ ................................ ....... 53 
 
1  CONTROLLED DRUGS AND SUBSTANCES ACT AND THE CANNABIS  ACT  
Outline of system  
1. The importation of controlled substances, precursor chemicals, cannabis and industrial hemp is 
governed by regulations made under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA),  which was 
enacted in 1996 and came into force in 1997, and the Cannabis Act (CA), which came into force on 
17 October 2018. The CDSA and CA are the means by which Canada fulfils its obligations under the 
United Nations (UN) Single Convention on Narcotic D rugs, 1961 , Convention on Psychotropic 
Substances, 1971 , and Convention Against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic 
Substances, 1988 (collectively known as the UN Drug Control Conventions).  
 
The CDSA and CA establish a legislative framework that prohibits any person from conducting 
activities, e.g., importation, exportation, production, distribution with controlled substances, 
precursor chemicals and cannabis unless authorized by the legislation, regulation, or an exemption 
issued by the Cana dian Minister of Health. The regulations made under the CDSA and CA set out the 
circumstances under which activities with controlled substances, precursor chemicals and cannabis 
are permitted.  
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  The substances regulated under the CDSA are grouped into six S chedules (Schedules I to VI) to the 
Act. Schedules I to IV list controlled substances (including analgesics, stimulants, sedatives, 
hallucinogens and anabolic steroids) while Schedule VI lists precursor chemicals. Schedule V lists 
items which the Minister of Health decides to control on a temporary basis (up to one year with the 
possible extension for another year) in response to significant risk to public health and safety. 
Currently there is no item listed in this Schedule. Schedule IX lists the designate d devices that are 
required to be registered with Health Canada before being imported into Canada.  
 
The following sections outline provisions pertaining to the legal import of controlled substances, 
precursor chemicals and cannabis:  
 
"Controlled Substances " 
 
- Benzodiazepines and Other Targeted Substances Regulations (targeted substances): Sets 
out the circumstances and requirements in which producers, distributors, importers, 
exporters, pharmacists, practitioners and hospitals may conduct any activities auth orized 
by these Regulations, including possession, sale, distribution, importing and exporting, and 
production of targeted substances. The term "targeted substances" refers to any controlled 
substance listed in Schedule 1 to these Regulations, including be nzodiazepines and other 
psychoactive substances.  
 
- Narcotic Control Regulations (narcotics): Sets out the circumstances and requirements in 
which producers, distributors , importers, exporters, pharmacists, practitioners and 
hospitals may conduct any activit ies authorized by these Regulations, including possession, 
sale, distribution, importing and exporting, and production of narcotics. The term "narcotic" 
refers to any controlled substance listed in the Schedule to these Regulations referred to as 
"narcotic s", such as cocaine, opium, codeine and morphine.  
 
- Part G of the Food and Drug Regulations (controlled drugs): Sets out the circumstances and 
requirements in which producers, distributors, importers, exporters, pharmacists, 
practitioners, and hospitals may  conduct any activities authorized by these Regulations, 
including possession, sale, distribution, importing, exporting, and production of controlled 
drugs. The term "controlled drug" refers to any controlled substance listed in the Schedule 
to Part G of t hese Regulations, such as stimulants, sedatives, and anabolic steroids.  
 
- Part J of the Food and Drug Regulations (restricted drugs): Governs the activities of 
producers, distributors , importers, exporters, and research institutions including 
possession, sa le, distribution, importing, exporting, and production of "restricted drugs". 
The term "restricted drug" refers to any controlled substance listed in the Schedule to Part 
J of these Regulations, such as MDMA, LSD, and psilocybin. These substances have no 
approved medical applications and can be used only for scientific and research purposes.  
 
"Precursor Chemicals"  
 
- Precursor Control Regulations : Sets out the circumstances and requirements in which 
producers, distributors, importers, exporters, pharmacists, practitioners, and hospitals may 
conduct, any activities authorized by these Regulations, including production, 
sale/provision, importation and exportation of two broad classes of chemicals listed in 
Parts 1 and 2 of Schedule VI to the CDSA:  
 
- Class A precursors, such as ephedrine, pseudoephedrine, piperidine, and red/white 
phosphorus; and  
 
- Class B precursors, such as acetone, hydrochloric acid, and toluene.  
 
While these regulations govern the import of controlled substances and precursors, they  may be 
referred to as two different "licensing/permit systems" – as procedures vary somewhat between the 
classes of substances – overall, the "systems" are very similar. In this regard, unless otherwise 
specified in the text below, procedures are the same  for each type of substance.  
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  "Designated Devices" Registry: Importation of Pill Presses and Encapsulators  
 
The control mechanism for designated devices is set out in the Controlled Drugs and Substances 
Act. 
 
Definition of Designated Devices:  
 
Pill press: Manual, semi -automatic or fully automatic device that may be used to compact or mould 
powdered, granular or semi -solid material to produce coherent solid tablets.  
 
Encapsulator: Manual, semi -automatic or fully automatic device that may be used to fill capsules 
with any powdered, granular, semi -solid or liquid material.  
 
Designated devices may be used for legitimate purposes in the pharmaceutical, food and consumer 
products industries. As of 18 May 2017, any individual or business who wishes to impo rt a designated 
device into Canada is required to register with Health Canada. Legitimate users are required to 
provide the registration number and proof/confirmation of the registration at the border upon 
importation of the designated device. Registration  is not onerous; the burden on legitimate 
manufacturers is limited. Failure to register a designated device before importing it across the 
Canadian border is in violation of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act . Subsequently, Customs 
officers may notify  Health Canada and/or law enforcement when the device arrives at the border. 
Border officials, at their discretion, may verify registration with Health Canada.  
 
Health Canada aims to process completed application forms within 15 business days. Incomplete 
forms will be returned to the applicant and delay the registration process. Health Canada encourages 
applicants to ensure that the application for registration is complete and submitted in good time.  
 
Each designated device must be registered using a separa te application form and is valid for one 
importation. Once the registration has been processed by Health Canada, applicants will be provided 
with the registration number for the designated device specified on the form, and a copy of the 
validated registrat ion form.  
 
"Cannabis"  
 
Cannabis Act : Prohibits the importation or exportation of cannabis and the possession of cannabis 
for the purpose of exporting it unless otherwise authorized under the CA.  
 
Cannabis Regulations : Sets out the circumstances and require ments in which cultivators, processors, 
sellers, producers, researchers, laboratories, distributors, importers, exporters, pharmacists, 
practitioners and hospitals may conduct regulated activities with cannabis including possession, sale, 
distribution, imp orting and exporting, and production of substances listed in Schedule 1 of the 
Cannabis Act . Importing and exporting is restricted to cannabis for medical and/or scientific 
purposes. A holder of a licence is authorized to import or export cannabis for medi cal or scientific 
purposes if they also hold an import or export permit.  
 
Cannabis Exemption Regulations  (Food and Drugs Act ): Cann abis Drug Licence holders seeking to 
import or export cannabis to be used as an ingredient in health products, or health products 
containing cannabis in final dosage format, are subject to the requirement to obtain an import or 
export permit from Health Ca nada for those activities. This is required for each shipment of cannabis 
that is imported or exported. The import and export of drugs containing cannabis, or of cannabis to 
be used as an Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient, must also comply with the requirem ents of the Food 
and Drugs Act. The holder of an import or export permit is also authorized to possess, transfer, 
transport, send, or deliver, or in the case of export, sell, the shipment of cannabis to the extent 
necessary for the import or export. The pe rmit is issued by the Minister of Health and has a specific 
validity period. The Section 56 Class Exemption For Travelers Who Are Importing or Exporting 
Prescription Drug Products Containing a Narcotic or a Controlled Drug authorizes the personal import 
and export of prescription drugs containing cannabis (such as Sativex) under certain conditions.  
 
Industrial  Hemp Regulations : Sets out the circumstances and requirements in which cultivators, 
sellers, importers and exporters, may conduct regulated activitie s with industrial hemp (cannabis 
plants containing less than 0.3% THC) including possession, sale, importing and exporting, and 
production of hemp derivatives.  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/22  
 
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  Purpose and coverage of licensing  
2. Prospective importers of controlled substances, precursor c hemicals or cannabis must be 
authorized under the respective regulations to conduct importation of specific substances. With the 
exception of Class B precursor chemicals, an authorized importer must apply for an import permit 
for each individual shipment. The application must specify the supplier's name, address and country, 
the quantity and type of substances being imported as well as the method of transport and the 
Customs port of entry. Import permits are valid for one shipment only.  
 
3. The system appli es to controlled substances, precursor chemicals and cannabis from all countries. 
While there is no actual restriction on which countries these substances can be imported from, 
substances are rarely imported from countries that are not party to the UN Drug  Control 
Conventions. However, not all substances that are controlled in Canada are controlled in all other 
jurisdictions (e.g., analogues, salts or derivatives of certain controlled substances, anabolic steroids, 
etc.).  
 
4. The import permit system is int ended to ensure the legitimate trade in controlled substances, 
precursor chemicals and cannabis for medical or scientific purposes, and minimize the risk of those 
substances being diverted to illicit markets by monitoring internationally the movement of sh ipments 
of these substances, taking into consideration, among other things, annual national estimates for 
controlled substances submitted by Canada to the International Narcotics Control Board (INCB). 
The Canadian regulatory system is required to have an i mport control component to it under the UN 
Drug Control Conventions.  
 
5. See paragraph 1.  
 
Procedures  
6.I.  Allocations of quotas for narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances are published by the 
United Nations, and this information is provided to dealers upon request and is available on 
the INCB website. Any nation exporting controlled substances or cannabis may obtain 
information on Canadian quotas through the INCB. Canada does not allocate a specific 
quantity to any foreign country or domestic im porter.  
 
II. The quotas for narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances are allocated annually in 
accordance with the requirements of the INCB.  
 
III. Permits to import controlled substances and Class A precursor chemicals are only issued to 
dealers who are licensed to import and conduct other activities with the relevant substances, 
while permits to import cannabis are only issued on a per -shipment basis to licence holders 
who are licensed to conduct activities with cannabis. All licence holders are required  to report 
to Health Canada on the endorsed quantity imported for each shipment that has taken place. 
Unused portions of permits for these substances and quantities from cancelled permits are 
credited back to the quota for the current year. The names of li censed importers are not 
published for confidentiality and security reasons. Health Canada sends three copies of the 
permit to the applicant, and it is the applicant's responsibility to send copies of import permits 
to the exporting country and the customs  broker.  
 
IV. All quotas are established on an annual basis, and an application amendment to this quota 
may be made at any time during the year. Import permit applications are accepted year -
round. Quotas submitted to the INCB are annual estimates of contro lled substances and 
cannabis for legitimate medical or scientific needs in Canada. When necessary, Canada may 
amend the estimates by submitting supplementary estimates to the INCB. Additionally, 
Canada provides the INCB with quarterly statistical reports o f narcotic drug imports and 
exports (Form A).  
 
V. Import permits are usually issued within 45 calendar days of receipt of the application.  
 
VI. Import permits are issued for immediate importation. Currently, permits for controlled 
substances and precursor chemicals are valid for six months from the date of issue or until 
the expiry date of the licence, whichever is earlier. For cannabis, import permits are valid for 
six months or until the expiry date of the licence, and may cover two calendar years. The da te G/LIC/N/3/CAN/22  
 
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  when the shipment is imported and the date when the export permit is revoked by the 
competent authority of the country of export are also considered in setting the permit expiry 
date. 
 
VII. All applications for import permits are reviewed by the Office of Controlled Substances, with 
the exception of applications for cannabis, which are reviewed by the Office of Medical Access 
and Specialized Authorizations.  
 
VIII. Import permits are issued on a first -come, first -served basis, provided that the applicant 
submits a complete application. There is no maximum amount allocated per applicant. 
Applications are examined for accuracy on receipt. In addition, applications made by forensic, 
coroner's office and other law enforcement agencies for reference standards a re processed as 
priorities.  
 
IX. In accordance with the UN Drug Control Conventions, a shipment of narcotic drug, 
psychotropic substances or precursor must be authorized by both the importing and exporting 
countries.  
 
X. Not applicable.  
 
XI. No. 
 
7. Not ap plicable.  
 
8. Generally, an application for an import permit for a controlled substance or class A precursor will 
be refused if the applicant does not hold a dealer's licence for the substance that is to be imported 
or holds a dealer's licence that will expire before the date of importation. If the application is for 
cannabis, the import permit will be refused if the applicant does not hold a licence to conduct 
activities with cannabis or it will expire before the date of importation, if the applican t has provided 
false or misleading information in the application, or if there are reasonable grounds to believe the 
importation would contravene the laws of the country of export or any country of 
transit/transhipment. This information is clearly provided  to the applicant. Yes, the applicant is 
given a right to appeal, as is outlined in the above Regulations.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for a permit  
9. For controlled substances, Class A precursor chemicals and cannabis, eligibility to apply for 
import permits is limited to individuals or companies licensed to import these substances in Canada. 
While businesses that import Class B precursors must be registered with Health Canada, import 
permits are not required for individual shipments of those substa nces. There is no fee attached to 
import permits, with the exception of import permits for cannabis (see below). However, a fee and 
other requirements may apply to obtain the licence to conduct regulated activities with controlled 
substances domestically. There is no fee for a Class A precursor licence or a Class B precursor 
registration.  
 
For cannabis, individuals or companies who import cannabis through their cultivation, processing 
or medical sale licence must pay a fee of $637 per import permit. Individ uals who import cannabis 
through their research licence, analytical testing licence or cannabis drug licence are not required 
to pay a fee.  
 
Documentation and other requirements for a permit application  
10. For controlled substances, Class A precursors and  cannabis, applicants must provide in the 
import permit application form the name and quantity of substances, the address of the importer 
and exporter, mode of transport, port of entry, proposed date of entry and the name of 
transit/transhipment country.  
 
11. Canadian import permits.  
 
12. There are fees to import cannabis. Individuals or companies who import cannabis through their 
cultivation, processing or sale licence must pay a fee of $637 per import permit. Individuals who G/LIC/N/3/CAN/22  
 
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  import cannabis through their research licence, analytical testing licence or cannabis drug licence  
are not required to pay a fee.  
 
13. No.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. Currently, import permits for controlled substances and precursor chemicals are valid for 
maximum six months from the date of issuance or until the expiry date of the licence whichever is 
earlier. For cannabis, import permits are valid for six months or until the expiry date of the licence, 
and may cover two calendar years.  
 
15. No.  
 
16. No.  
 
17.(a)Special conditions may be added on a case -by-case basis.  
 
(b)  Not applicable.  
 
Other Procedural Requirements  
18. No. 
 
19. No. 
 
2  FOOD AND DRUGS ACT  
Outline of system  
1. The importation into Canada of drugs, blood, natural health products and medical devices is 
subject to establishment or site licensing to ensure that imported products meet Canadian standards 
of safety, efficacy and quality. The import of these products is covered by the Food and Drug 
Regulations , the Blood Regulations , the Natural Hea lth Products Regulations , and Medical Devices 
Regulations , respectively. In addition to establishment or site licences permitting persons to, among 
other things, import a health product, product licences or market authorizations are required for the 
sale o f each specific health product in Canada.  
 
In the case of medical devices, a market authorization is required for Class II, III and IV devices, 
which correspond to mid and high -risk devices. Class I devices, which are the lowest risk, are not 
issued produc t-specific market authorizations and are instead covered under establishment licences. 
The importation of human cells, tissues and organs (CTO) for transplantation are not subject to 
licensing, but imported products must meet Canadian standards for safety,  as expressed in the 
respective regulations. Establishments that import and/or distribute CTOs are required to be 
registered with Health Canada. Any tissue or cell (other than lymphohemapoietic cell) imported into 
Canada under the Safety of Human Cells, Ti ssues and Organs for Transplantation Regulations must 
also have been processed by a registered establishment.  
 
Purpose and coverage of licensing  
2. Establishment licences are required for "import for sale" of drugs (including pharmaceuticals, 
active pharma ceutical ingredients, biologics, vaccines, blood products, and radiopharmeuticals), 
blood, and medical devices. However, licences may not be required for blood if import is done under 
urgent circumstances.  
 
Site licences are required for "import for sale" of natural health products (including vitamins and 
minerals; herbal remedies; homeopathic medicines; traditional medicines; probiotics; and other 
products like amino acids and essential fatty acids).  
 
3. The above systems apply to the specified health prod ucts from all countries.  
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  4. The licensing is not intended to restrict the quantity or value of imports; it is intended to ensure 
that imported health products meet Canadian standards of safety, quality, and efficacy. Licensing is 
the most cost -effective w ay to monitor importers.  
 
5. The following relates to import licensing and administrative procedures for health products under 
the Food and Drugs Act and its associated regulations. Different health products, covered under the 
Act, are subject to different  regulations as listed below:  
 
- Food and Drug Regulations;  
- Blood Regulations;  
- Medical Devices Regulations;  
- Natural Health Products Regulations;  
- Safety of Human Cells, Tissues and Organs for Transplantation Regulations.  
 
Product designation is not subject to administrative discretion.  
 
Legislative approval would be required to abolish the licensing/registration systems described above.  
 
Procedures  
6. Import of health products by licence holders is not restricted as to the quantity or value of the 
imports.  
 
7.(a) A licence or registration for the importer and/or product must have been obtained prior to 
importation. No, licences cannot be obtained in a shorter time frame for products arriving at 
the port where the importer has not already obtained one.  
 
Time to obtain a licence depends on a variety of factors and will depend on the individual case.  
 
(b) No, a licence cannot be granted immediately on request. Establishment licences, site licences, 
and product licences are issued if a review of the application indicates that all requirements 
of the applicable regulations have been met. CTO registration is issued if a review of the 
application indicates that all the requirements of registration are met, including an attestation 
from the Medical  or Scientific Director that they are in compliance with the regulations.  
 
(c) No, licence applications and importation are not limited according to time of year.  
 
(d) Health Canada is the only authority with respect to the above licences or registration.  
 
8. Failure to meet the criteria specified in the regulations will result in an application being refused. 
Reasons for refusal are given to the applicant. There are regulatory requirements for Health Canada 
to provide the applicant with an opportunity to b e heard. Review of the decision is internal to Health 
Canada. Applicants have a final right of appeal through the federal court system.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. Any person, including a natural person or a legal entity meeting the l egal definition of a person, 
is eligible to apply for a licence or registration.  
 
Applicants that do not have a Canadian address must provide the address of a representative in 
Canada with the exception of medical devices where the applicant is not require d to have a Canadian 
representative. There are fees associated with drugs and medical devices for both product and 
establishment licences. There is a published list of drug and medical device product licences and 
establishment licences. For CTO establishme nts, this information is made available upon request at 
the follow address: roeb.cto -dgoral@hc -sc.gc.ca . 
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for a p ermit to import  
10. Applications for product licences vary according to product but all the requirements are detailed 
in the applicable regulations and guidance. Applications for establishment and site licences and CTO 
registration must contain information  on the applicant's name and address and contact information; 
the activities proposed; the product type; the address of each building where an activity will take G/LIC/N/3/CAN/22  
 
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  place; and a statement that they meet the applicable requirements of the regulations. For bloo d 
establishment licences, as part of the application, the importer must submit evidence of compliance 
for every foreign establishment where the blood is processed.  
 
11. No specific documents are required upon importation, just evidence that the applicable licences 
are in place. The Health Products and Food Branch and the Regulatory Operations and Enforcement 
Branch of Health Canada can confirm that these have been issued.  
 
12. There are no fees for blood, CTO, or NHP, as these are not cost recovered. There are fees for 
drug and medical device product and establishment licences; these fees are published in the Fees in 
Respect of Drugs and Medical Devices Regulations and depend on the type of licence involved.  
 
13. Where fees apply, a deposit or advance paymen t is required for the issuance of a licence. Again, 
this amount varies as per the licence and is published in the regulations.  
 
Conditions of permit  
14. Drug Establishment licences and Medical Device Establishment Licences are subject to annual 
renewal prior to 1 April each year; Blood Establishment Licences have no expiry and no annual 
renewal; CTO registration is subject to renewal in the year following the year in which the registration 
is issued; and drug and medical device product licences r equire annual notification. NHP site licences 
must be renewed annually for the first three years, every other year for the next six years, and 
every third year after that; product licences are for an indefinite period.  
 
The validity period cannot be extended.  
 
15. No penalty is imposed for non -utilization of a licence or registration.  
 
16. Licences are issued to a specific person. To change the name of the licence holder a new licence 
application is required.  
 
17. An establishment licence may be subje ct to terms and conditions as specified by the Minister on 
the licence when the licence is issued. These conditions vary according to the licence. For drug and 
blood establishment licences, terms and conditions can be added or modified at any time.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. No.  
 
19. Not applicable.  
 
3  ASSISTED HUMAN REPRODUCTION ACT  
Outline of system  
1. The AHR Act prohibits the importation and/or the distribution in Canada of donor sperm and ova 
for the purpose of AHR, unless the sperm and ova are processed by a primary establishment that is 
registered with Health Canada.  
 
Purpose and coverage of licensing  
2. The Safety Regulations require that primary establishments that are responsible for all of the 
processing activities with respect to donor spe rm and ova be registered with Health Canada.  
 
3. The system applies to all countries.  
 
4. The importation into Canada of sperm and ova for assisted human reproduction are not subject 
to licensing, but imported gametes must meet Canadian standards for safet y, as expressed in the 
Safety Regulations.  
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  5. The following relates to import licensing and administrative procedures for donor sperm and ova 
under the Assisted Human Reproduction Act and the Safety of Sperm and Ova Regulations (Safety 
Regulations).  
Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7.(a) A licence  or registration for the importer and/or product must have been obtained prior to 
importation. No, licences cannot be obtained in a shorter time frame for products arriving at 
the port where the importer has not already obtained one.  
 
Time to obtain a licence  depends on a variety of factors and will depend on the individual case.  
 
(b) No, a licence cannot be granted immediately on request.  
 
(c) No, licence applications and importation are not limited according to time of year.  
 
(d) Establishments that import a nd/or distribute sperm and ova in Canada must submit a 
notification to Health Canada prior to importation. Sperm and ova imported under the Safety 
Regulations must also have been processed by a primary establishment registered with Health 
Canada.  
 
8. Failu re to meet the criteria specified in the regulations may result in Health Canada taking 
compliance and enforcement measures.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for registration  
9. Establishments, as defined in the Safety Regulations, are eligible to import  sperm and ova in 
Canada. Any person can import sperm or ova and therefore be considered an establishment.  
 
The Safety Regulations do not require establishments who import and/or distribute sperm and ova 
to register, but they must notify Health Canada usin g a notification form.  
 
An establishment must keep records for importation and/or distribution that contain all the 
documents and information required under the Safety Regulations and all other records that 
demonstrate that they meet the requirements of th e Safety Regulations.  
 
There are no fees associated with sperm and ova registrations, notifications or annual attestations 
as they are not cost recovered. Information on notifications is available upon request at the following 
address: ahrregistration -enregistrementpa@hc -sc.gc.ca . 
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for a permit to import  
10. All records relating to the importation and distribution of donor sperm and ova must include the 
donor identification code and the donation code for each unit of sperm or ova.  
 
Applications for notifications must contain information on the establishment's name, telephone 
number, emai l address, postal address and, if different from the postal address, civic address; a 
statement indicating whether the establishment proposes to distribute or import sperm or ova and 
the projected start date; the civic address of the buildings in which the  establishment proposes to 
conduct the activities; the first name, last name, telephone number and email address of a person 
to contact for further information concerning the notice and, if different, a person to contact in case 
of emergency; in the case o f an establishment that previously conducted its activities under another 
name, that other name; and the name and registration number of each primary establishment that 
processes that sperm or those ova.  
 
Establishments must submit the Sperm and Ova notification form  prior to importing and/o r 
distributing sperm and ova in Canada.  
 
11. No specific documents are required upon importation, just evidence that the applicable licences 
are in place.  
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  12. There are no fees associated with sperm and ova registrations, applications, notifications or 
annual attestations as they are not cost recovered. Information on notifications is available upon 
request at the following address: ahrregistration -enregistrementpa@hc -sc.gc.ca . 
 
13. Not applicable.  
 
Conditions of permit  
14. Although a notification does not have an expiry date, establishments must send Health Canada 
an annual attestation of compliance by 1 April of each year by submitting the Sperm and ova  
establishment annual attestation form.  
 
15. No.  
 
16. Licenses are not transferrable.  
 
17.(b)If there are any changes to the information provided on the notification form or if importation 
stops, these changes must be filed with Health Canada using the notification form and include 
an accompanying cover letter summarizing the changes.  
 
Other Procedural Requirements  
18. No.  
 
19. Not applicable.  
 
4  GROWER REQUESTED OWN USE (GROU) PROGRAM  
Outline of System  
1. The Grower Requested Own Use (GROU) program allows growers to import the foreign version of 
a Canadian registered agricultural pesticide product, once approved for the Program by Health 
Canada.  
 
The Grower Requested Own Use (GROU) program is administered by Health Canada's Pest 
Management Re gulatory Agency (PMRA) and allows Canadian growers to import and use (by way of 
an import certificate) foreign versions of Canadian registered products (pesticides). Before products 
are accepted in the GROU program (by way of an equivalency certificate), t hey are evaluated by 
scientists to identify if any chemical differences may lead to increased health or environmental risks.  
 
Purpose and Coverage of Licensing  
2. The GROU program is the only system in place and is related only to pest control products 
(pesticides).  
 
3. Generally, pesticides which are registered in Organisation for Economic Co -operation and 
Development (OECD) countries.  
 
4. Yes, the import certificate (licensing) is intended to restrict the quantity of pesticides imported.  
 
5. Pest Control Products Regulations (PCPR), SOR/2006 -124, Pest Control Products Act 
(https://laws -lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/regulations/SOR -2006-124/FullText.html ). 
 
(a) Yes, the import certificate is statutorily required.  
(b) All requests to the program must be considered and there is no administrative discretion.  
(c) Legislative approval is required to abolish the program.  
 
Procedures  
6.I.  There are no specific quotas, as individual import certificates are based on the size of the area 
where the pesticide will be used and the particular crop. Each import certificate is individually G/LIC/N/3/CAN/22  
 
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  approved. The requirements embedded with the regulations and  user friendly instruction are 
posted on the web: https://www.canad a.ca/en/health -canada/services/consumer -product - 
safety/pesticides -pest-management/growers -commercial -users/grower -requested -own-use- 
program/importing.html . 
The list of eligible products is also on the website. There are no exceptions allowed within the 
program.  
 
II. Import certifi cates and the corresponding quantity of the foreign product approved for an 
intended use is valid for not more than one year (one growing season) and one importation. 
Growers (importers) are required to apply for a new import certificate for additional 
importations within the same or subsequent years.  
 
III. The approval process has two steps: A) Equivalency certificates are issued for a foreign 
product which is deemed to be equivalent to a Canadian registered product. B) Individual 
import certificates are s ubmitted by Canadian growers for approval to import and use an 
approved product on their land, for a specific crop, according to label directions. The amount 
of product approved for importation is for use within one year or the growing season. The 
process is transparent as per the section 43 of the PCPR.  
 
IV. There are no quotas. Not applicable to the GROU Program.  
 
V. There are no published service standards for the length of time required to process an 
application. An application to import a product is en tertained as long as the specific product 
is considered equivalent.  
 
VI. There are no published service standards as to the length of time between the granting of 
licences and the date of opening of the period of importation. The approval to import is gran ted 
for one year or the growing season. Growing seasons can vary depending on the crop, where 
it is grown in Canada and how it is grown. For example, tomatoes grown in a greenhouse have 
a longer season than tomatoes grown in a field.  
 
VII. Health Canada ad ministers the entire GROU program. Additional importation requirements 
and documentation may be required by the CBSA (consistent with any importation).  
 
VIII. Health Canada only provides the authority to import and use an unregistered product. There 
is no allocation process. The grower seeking the authorization is responsible to find, purchase 
and import the product. Applications are examined on receipt on a first come, first served 
basis.  
 
IX. Not applicable.  
 
X. Not applicable.  
 
XI. Yes, there are conditions stated on the import certificate and through the PCPR. The use of 
the product is only for the specified use, crop and location and cannot be transferred nor sold.  
 
7. No quantitative limit applies since there are limits placed on importations.  
 
8. If an applicant does not meet the requirements as set out in the PCPR, an application is refused. 
There is no appeal process.  
 
Eligibility of Importers to Apply for Licence  
9. A person as defined in section 2 of the Criminal Code may apply for an import  certificate.  
 
Documentational and Other Requirements for Application for Licence  
10. The web page to obtain the application form for a certificate is attached: https://sec2.hc - 
sc.gc.ca/pmra6200 -eng.php . 
 
The application must include all of the following information:  
 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/22  
 
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  (a) the person's name, address and signature;  
(b) the name of the foreign product;  
(c) the number of the applicable certificate of equivalency;  
(d) a description of the intended use of the foreign product and the location where it will be 
used; and  
(e) quantity of the foreign product required for that intended use for one growing season.  
 
11. At a Canadian Point of Entry, all containers must have both the GROU approved container label 
and, if available, the Directions for Use Booklet attached. Permanently affix the GROU approved 
container label to each container in such a w ay that the United States (U.S.) use directions are 
covered but the product name, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) registration number, 
establishment number and net contents are not covered. This will avoid confusion between the 
Canadian and U. S. use directions. The importer's name, address and telephone number, GROU 
Import Certificate number, metric net contents, signature and date of signature must also be 
included.  
 
The properly labelled containers of foreign product must be brought to the qu eue for commercial 
traffic and presented to the Customs Border Services Officer with the original approved GROU Import 
Certificate. Photocopies will not be accepted. Customs authorities may also ask for the original bill 
of sale corresponding to the GROU I mport Certificate.  
 
Slightly different information is required if a small group of growers are working together with a 
designated agent or are hiring a customs broker or carrier.  
 
12. There is no charge to the applicant by Health Canada to process an appli cation.  
 
13. Not applicable.  
 
Conditions of Licensing  
14. An import certificate (foreign product use certificate) is valid for only one importation and for 
the period specified in the certificate, which must not exceed one calendar year. It ceases to be va lid 
if the applicable certificate of equivalency ceases to be valid. See section 41 (4) of the PCPR.  
 
15. There is no penalty for non -utilization of a licence or portion of a licence. The authorization 
expires.  
 
16. Certificates are not transferable.  
 
17.(a)There are no conditions for products subject to a quantitative restriction in the issuance of a 
certificate.  
 
(b)  The restrictions in place are outlined in Section 42 of the Pest Control Product Regulations:  
 
Importation of foreign product  
 
42 (1) A person may import a foreign product whose use is authorized if all of the following 
conditions are met:  
(a) the person holds a foreign product use certificate in respect of that product;  
(b) that certificate holder purchases the product directly from the foreign source without 
the intervention of an agent or mandatary;  
(c) before the importation, the certificate holder provides the Minister with all of the 
following information:  
(i) the proposed date of the importation,  
(ii) the name of the person who will  transport the foreign product into Canada, and  
(iii) the name of the entry point;  
(d) the certificate holder  
(i) affixes to each container of the foreign product, as soon as practicable after the 
importation of the product but in any case, before its use,  a copy of the approved 
foreign product use label in a way that the product identifier that relates to its 
registration outside Canada remains visible at all times, and  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/22  
 
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  (ii) ensures that a copy of any brochure or leaflet that sets out the directions for use 
accompanies the product; and  
(e) The quantity  of the product imported does not exceed the amount set out in the foreign 
product use certificate.  
Pooled purchases  
 
(2) Two or more persons may together import in one shipment their authorized quantities of 
foreign products set out in their respective foreign product use certificates if the importation 
meets the conditions of subsection (1).  
 
Transport  
 
(3) The person who transports the foreign product into Canada must carry it to the  location 
of use specified in the foreign product use certificate and have the following documents in 
their possession:  
 
(a) proof of purchase in respect of each quantity of foreign product in the shipment, 
including the name of the foreign source from who m it was purchased; and  
(b) copies of relevant  foreign product use certificates.  
 
Other Procedural Requirements  
18. No other administrative procedures are in place.  
 
19. Not applicable since Health Canada has sole authority to grant importation and use.  
 
5  EXPLOSIVES ACT  
Outline of system  
1. The importation of explosives is governed by the Explosives Act and Regulations , which is 
administered by the Department of Natural Resources. The legal definition of explosives includes 
blasting explosives, detonators, propellants, sporting and industrial cartridges, and all types of 
fireworks and pyrotechnic devices. Before an explosive may be imported into Canada or 
manufactured in Canada it must be declared an authorized explosive by the Chief Inspector of 
Explosives appointed under the Explosives Act . The process of authorizing an explosive consists of 
the manufacturer submitting data on the nature and composition of the explosive and on its 
packaging and markings. Such an application is subject to a minimum user fee of CAN$128. Samples 
are usually required for laboratory examination. Testing fees depend on the type of tests to be 
carried out and the number of samples to be examined. This can vary, for example, from CAN$2,108 
for one fireworks sample and up to CAN$16,8 81 for ten fireworks samples. The criteria for 
authorization are based on the safety characteristics of the explosive substances or articles during 
handling, storage, transport and use. The objective of the authorization process is to confirm that 
characte ristics meet declared values and relevant standards. Authorization also confirms that the 
product classification is in conformity with the recommendations of the Committee of Experts on the 
Transport of Dangerous Goods as adopted by the Economic and Social  Council (ECOSOC) of the 
United Nations.  
 
Purpose and coverage of licensing  
2. Once an explosive is authorized, any person may import it into Canada provided he has the proper 
storage facilities for the type and quantity of explosives in question. Two kind s of importation permits 
are issued; a single use permit issued for a specific quantity in one shipment, and an annual permit 
issued for unlimited shipments of authorized explosives during a twelve -month period.  
 
3. The system applies to explosives from al l countries.  
 
4. The system is intended only to ensure that the same degree of safety exists with imported 
explosives as with those of domestic manufacture. There is no intent whatsoever to restrict the 
quantity or value of the explosives imported.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/22  
 
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  5. The Explosives Act , R.S., c.E -17 as amended, and the Explosives Regulations , 2013 
(SOR/2013 -211). The system is a statutory requirement which does not convey any administrative 
discretion and would require legislative approval to be abolished . 
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7.(a) The import permit is issued within thirty days after receipt of the application if the explosive 
has been previously authorized and facilities exist in Canada for the safe and secure storage 
of the quantity being imp orted. Permits may be obtained in a shorter time but nevertheless 
should be on hand when a shipment arrives at Customs to prevent dangerous accumulations. 
Naturally, delays will occur if the explosive has not been authorized previously.  
 
(b) Permits may be  granted immediately on request, for import of significant priority, provided all 
is in order.  
 
(c) There are no limitations as to the period of the year during which an application for an 
importation permit may be made.  
 
(d) The importer need only approac h the Explosives Regulatory Division of the Department of 
Natural Resources. No other administrative bodies are involved.  
 
8. An application for an explosives importation permit may only be refused for failure to meet safety 
or security criteria. Reasons f or such refusal would be given to the applicant who would have the 
right of appeal to the Minister of Natural Resources under Section 17 of the Explosives Act.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. Any importer who has satisfied the requirement s of the Explosives Regulations relative to the 
storage, sale, purchase and possession, and of the Transportation of Dangerous Goods Regulations 
relative to transport, of the explosive to be imported may apply for an importation permit.  
 
Documentational an d other requirements for application for licence  
10. The latest application form and guidelines are located on Natural Resources Canada's webpage: 
https://natural -resources.canada.ca/our -natural -resources/minerals -mining/explosives -fireworks -
and-ammunition/explosives/importing -exporting -and-transporting -explosives/9907 . 
 
11. The latest import process is described in Canada Border Services Agency's D19 -6-1 
memorandum that can be found at: http://www.cbsa -asfc.gc.ca/publications/dm -md/d19/d19 -6-1- 
eng.html . 
 
12. The present fee is CAN$164.00 for a single use Importation Permit and a minimum of 
CAN$164.00 for an Annual Importation Permit with a maximum fee of CAN$1,324.  
 
13. Other than the fee, there is no deposit or advance payment associated with the issuance of an 
importation permit.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. Explosives Importati on Permits can be issued for a period of 12 months. Single use importation 
Permits are valid for one shipment while Annual Importation Permits are valid for any number of 
shipments.  
 
15. There is no penalty for the non -utilization of an explosives importat ion permit.  
 
16. Permits are not transferable between importers and only the products made by the 
manufacturer(s) specified in the permit may be imported.  
 
17. There are no conditions attached to the issuance of an explosives importation permit relative to  
quantitative restrictions other than safe and secure storage location in Canada. Depending on the G/LIC/N/3/CAN/22  
 
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  quantity to be stored, a magazine (i.e. storage) licence issued by the Explosives Regulations Division 
may be required. Importation permit applicants will be  advised if this is the case.  
 
Other procedural  requirements  
18-19. Persons not resident in Canada or not having a chief place of business in Canada might be 
required to post a bond before being permitted to import explosives ( Explosives Act Section 9(3)).  
 
6  NUCLEAR SAFETY AND CONTROL ACT  
Outline of system  
1. The Nuclear Safety and Control Act (S.C., 1997, c.9) came into force 31 May 2000. The legislation 
established a national nuclear regulatory authority, the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission 
(CNSC), for  the purpose of administering the Act. The CNSC has established a comprehensive 
regulatory control system for the import, export, transfer, possession and use of nuclear substances, 
prescribed equipment and prescribed information (technology). Under this s ystem, any person 
proposing to conduct these activities in Canada must do so only in accordance with a licence, subject 
to the regulations under the Act. Licence application requirements are specified in regulations, in 
general in the General Nuclear Safet y and Control Regulations (SOR/2000 -202). The Commission 
may not issue a licence unless it is satisfied that the applicant is qualified to conduct the activity to 
be authorized, and that the applicant will make adequate provision for the protection of the 
environment, the health and safety of persons, and the maintenance of national security and 
measures required to implement international obligations to which Canada has agreed.  
 
Any person wishing to import a nuclear substance, prescribed equipment or pres cribed information 
must obtain an import licence from the CNSC. Authority to import certain nuclear substances may 
be included in a licence to possess and use that nuclear substance, under general licensing 
provisions. However, import of controlled nuclear  substances as defined in the Nuclear Non-
proliferation Import and Export Control Regulations (NNIECR) (SOR/2000 -210) requires an import 
licence issued pursuant to those regulations. All controlled nuclear substances are prescribed as 
nuclear substances wi th respect to the import and export of those substances. Similarly, licensing 
authorization is required to import controlled nuclear equipment and information under the NNIECR. 
The Nuclear Safety and Control Act (NSCA) and its regulations are available thr ough the CNSC 
website ( http://www.nuclearsafety.gc.ca ). 
 
Purpose and coverage of licensing  
2. The purpose of the NSCA is two -fold: (i) to provide for the limitation of risks to national security, 
the health and safety of persons and the environment that are associated with the development, 
production and use of nuclear energy and the production, possession and use of nuclear substances, 
prescribed equipment  and prescribed information; and (ii) to provide for the implementation in 
Canada of measures to which Canada has agreed regarding international control of the development, 
production and use of nuclear energy, including the non -proliferation of nuclear we apons and nuclear 
explosive devices. Nuclear substances are defined in the NSCA (section 2), and include uranium, 
thorium, plutonium, deuterium and their respective derivatives and compounds, radioactive 
nuclides, and substances that are prescribed by regu lation as being capable of releasing nuclear 
energy or as being required for the production or use of nuclear energy. Additionally, the NNIECR 
define controlled nuclear substances, controlled nuclear equipment and controlled nuclear 
information that are su bject to specific import and export licensing controls, and list these in the 
Schedule to the regulations. These items are controlled for the purpose of assuring that the 
Government of Canada meets international obligations to which it has agreed regarding  the non -
proliferation of nuclear weapons; they are based primarily on international guidelines and control 
lists. There are some exemptions from licensing requirement and these are identified in the NNIECR 
(section 4).  
 
3. This licensing system applies to  nuclear substances, prescribed equipment and prescribed 
information imported from any country.  
 
4. The licensing of imports is intended to ensure that the nuclear substances, prescribed equipment 
and prescribed information are transferred only to persons authorized to use them safely and 
securely, pursuant to the provisions of the NSCA and its regulatio ns. Licensing also enables the G/LIC/N/3/CAN/22  
 
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  CNSC to take actions to assure that any applicable international, bilateral or multilateral obligations 
that Canada has entered into are met, including those related to nuclear non -proliferation.  
 
Import licences may specify the maximum allowable quantity of nuclear substances, prescribed 
equipment and prescribed information authorized for import. The purpose of the regulatory controls 
on imports is to assure that the imported items are possessed only by qualified and authoriz ed 
persons pursuant to the NSCA, and to assure compliance with international obligations; licensing is 
not intended to otherwise restrict the quantity or value of imports.  
 
5. The licensing of imports is a requirement of section 26 of the NSCA. Licensing p rocedures and 
licensing application requirements are prescribed by regulation. The Commission has established 
classes of licences authorizing the licensee to carry out any activity described in section 26 of the 
NSCA; this includes Import Licences. CNSC st aff conducts risk -informed assessments of licence 
applications and supporting information and makes recommendations to the Commission for decision 
on issuance of licences. A licence may contain any term or condition that the Commission considers 
necessary for the purposes of the NSCA. The Commission has the power to delegate responsibilities 
to Designated Officers for issuance of licences in certain circumstances, pursuant to section 37 of 
the NSCA, and has done this for import and export licensing decision s. 
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable. Quantity and value restrictions, beyond the terms and conditions contained in the 
individual import licence, do not apply to imports of nuclear substances, prescribed equipment and 
prescribed information, except as may fro m time to time be determined by Government policy.  
 
7.(a)-(b) An import licence is normally issued within 30 calendar days of receipt of a complete 
application but can be issued in a shorter time if warranted. A licence cannot be granted 
immediately upon r equest; a risk -informed assessment of an application submitted in 
compliance with the regulations is required prior to a licensing decision.  
 
(c) No; there are no limitations as to the period of year in which applications may be made.  
 
(d) The CNSC is the only body authorized to issue an import licence pursuant to the NSCA. The 
Commission has delegated the authority for making the licensing decision on imports to a 
Designated Officer, pursuant to section 37 of the NSCA.  
 
8. The Designated Officer, acting on  behalf of the Commission, may refuse to issue a licence, or may 
revoke, suspend, transfer, or amend the terms and conditions of a licence, for reasons of: protection 
of the environment and of the health and safety of persons; maintenance of national secur ity; and 
requirements related to international obligations to which Canada has agreed (section 24, NSCA). 
In such cases, the NSCA provides the applicant or, as appropriate the licensee, the opportunity to 
be heard by the Designated Officer before making th eir decision. The applicant or, as appropriate 
the licensee, can appeal the decision to the Commission, which can decide to uphold the decision of 
the Designated Officer or modify it.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. All persons, firms and  institutions are eligible to apply for an import licence. There are no 
application fees for requests to import, nor is there a system of registration of entities that engage 
in import activities. However, nuclear substances may not be imported unless the applicant also 
holds a valid licence issued by the CNSC for the possession and use of the nuclear substance being 
imported. The CNSC does not publish a list of authorized importers.  
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. Information required on applications to import a controlled nuclear substance, controlled nuclear 
equipment or controlled nuclear information is specified in the Nuclear Non -proliferation Import and 
Export Control Regulations (NNIECR), and includes: name and  contact information of the applicant 
and of each consignee; description of the substance, equipment or information; name and address 
of the supplier; country of origin of the imported item; intended end -use of the item by the final 
consignee and the inten ded end -use location; the number of any licence to possess the substance, 
equipment or information; and, as applicable, the measures that will be taken to facilitate Canada's G/LIC/N/3/CAN/22  
 
- 18 - 
 
  compliance with certain international obligations. An application form, with inst ructions for 
completion, is provided on the CNSC website ( Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission ). 
 
11. Importers must present the import licence to a customs officer upon importing the authorized 
nuclear substance, prescribed equipment or prescribed information (section 18, General Nuclear 
Safety and Control Regulations ). 
 
12. No; there are no licensing fee s or administrative charges associated with the issuance of an 
import licence.  
 
13. No; there is no requirement for any deposit or advance payment associated with the issuance 
of an import licence.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. The period of validity depend s on the nature of the import, with a default term of one year. The 
validity of a licence may be extended through amendment upon written application.  
 
15. No; there is no penalty for non -utilization of a licence.  
 
16. Yes. The NSCA was amended in 2012 to a llow for transfer of licences. Those amendments allow 
the CNSC to authorize the transfer of an import licence from the existing licence holder to another 
importer, upon receipt of an application and subject to applicable regulations. The CNSC must satisfy 
itself that the recipient of the licence proposed for transfer is qualified to conduct the activity to be 
authorized, and that the recipient will make adequate provision for the protection of the 
environment, the health and safety of persons, and the maint enance of national security and 
measures required to implement international obligations to which Canada has agreed.  
 
17.(a)Not applicable.  
 
(b) The CNSC may include in an import licence any condition it considers necessary for the 
purposes of the NSCA, in cluding compliance reporting conditions.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. Applications to import items that are subject to the provisions of bilateral nuclear cooperation 
agreements that Canada has entered into with nuclear trading partners, for the purp ose of assuring 
that Canada's nuclear non -proliferation policy requirements are met, may require the CNSC to 
implement administrative procedural requirements with regulatory counterparts in the exporting 
country. There are no additional requirements placed  on importers as a result of this but 
implementing these bilateral procedures can require additional time to complete the processing and 
assessment of import applications.  
 
19. Not applicable.  
 
7  CANADIAN ENERGY REGULATOR ACT  
Outline of system  
1. The outline of the system (reflects NEB Act amendments, but not the regulations being updated). 
Clarification to all below: The CER Act will remove the requirement for importation licences in the 
future, either after 28 August 2022, or after regulations prescr ibing what importation information is 
to be submitted to the Regulator and the frequency of submission. Currently the import order regime 
remains in place as a transitional provision.  
 
On 28 August 2019, the National Energy Board Act (the NEB Act) was repealed and replaced with 
the Canadian Energy Regulator Act (the CER Act). The CER Act establishes a new Canada Energy 
Regulator (CER), replacing the National Energy Board (NEB). The CER comprises a Board of Directors 
to provide oversight and strategic di rection and a Chief Executive Officer (CEO), who is responsible 
for day -to-day operations and is separate from the Chair of the Board.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/22  
 
- 19 - 
 
  The new CER also includes a group of independent Commissioners who are responsible for timely, 
inclusive and transparent  project reviews and decision -making. The Commission has all the powers, 
rights and privileges vested in a superior court of record with respect to any matters within its 
jurisdiction. The CER Act also allows for regulations permitting the CEO to designate  officers of the 
CER to perform certain powers, duties and functions of the Commission, some of which may 
potentially relate to importation.  
 
A major consequence of the CER Act is that licenses and orders will no longer be required for the 
importation of o il and gas into Canada on or before 28 August 2022.  
 
The Canadian Energy Regulator Act and the National Energy Board Act Part VI (Oil and Gas) 
Regulations (Part VI Regulations) made under the predecessor NEB Act control imports of natural 
gas, whether in g aseous or liquid state, by pipeline, railway tank cars and tank trucks or tankers. 
Imports are authorized by both licences and orders. Licences are issued for long -term imports while 
orders are used in the case of long -term small volume imports, emergency imports or and short -
term large volume imports. An application is made to the Board for import authorization. No licence 
is effective until approved by the Governor -in-Council. The issuance of an import order requires the 
approval of the Board and does not  require a public hearing or Governor in Council approval. The 
new Canadian Energy Regulator Act removes the requirement to obtain a license or order before 
importing oil and gas into Canada subject to changes to the Part VI Regulations).  
 
Purposes and cov erage of licensing  
2. Under the CER Act, licenses or orders will no longer required for the importation of oil or gas as 
of 28 August 2019. The import license and order requirements of the Part VI Regulations will remain 
in effect until the earlier of the date they are amended or replaced, or 28 August 2022.  
 
3. The system  described applies to gas originating in and coming from any country.  
 
4. The import license and order requirements of the Part VI Regulations will remain in effect until 
the earlier of th e date they are amended or replaced, or 28 August 2022.  
 
5. The authorization  of imports is maintained under the Canadian Energy Regulator Act for all new 
import activities on or after 28 August 2019. For imports authorizations initiated prior to 
28 August  2019, the National Energy Board Act , a statute of the Parliament of Canada, and the 
National Energy Board Act Part VI (Oil and Gas) Regulation s continue to apply. The term "gas" is 
defined in the Act and is not subjected to administrative discretion. Legi slative action would be 
required to abolish the system.  
 
Procedures  
6. There is no quota system. Determinations are made on a case -by-case basis.  
 
7.(a)  Application for a licence should be made in advance of importation by a reasonable length of 
time, dep ending on the size and complexity of the importation arrangement. In some cases, 
imports commence  immediately upon issuance of the authorization, or, depending on the 
requirements of the import arrangement, there may be some interval between the 
authorizat ion and the commencement of the import.  
 
(b) An order can be granted very quickly by the Commission. A licence may, at the discretion of 
the CER require that a public hearing be held.  
 
While the requirement to obtain a license remains in effect, for processing license applications 
a public hearing may be required and is at the discretion of the CER. The length of time to 
process a licence application is approximately four months or longer depending on whether a 
public hearing is deemed necessary. Appl ications for orders can be approved very quickly. 
Typical processing time for emergency and short -term imports is 48 hours, while processing 
time for long -term import orders is two to six weeks or more.  
 
(c) There are no limitations as to the period of the  year during which application for import 
authorization may be made.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/22  
 
- 20 - 
 
  (d) The prospective  importer has to approach one administrative organ only, the Canada Energy 
Regulator.  
 
8. An application for a licence may be refused for failure to meet criteria set out in the Part VI 
Regulations or where the import is not in the public interest. An applicant, in the event of refusal to 
issue a licence, may resubmit his application to the Canada Energy Regulator with appropriate 
amendments or may request a review. App eal can be made to the Federal Court of Appeal on a 
question of law or jurisdiction, on leave being obtained from the Court. The import license and order 
requirements of the Part VI Regulations will remain in effect until the earlier of the date they are 
amended or replaced, or 28 August 2022.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. Any person is eligible to apply for an import licence.  
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. The Governor -in-Council may make regulat ions respecting the information to be furnished by 
applicants and the procedures to be followed in applying for import authorization. Section 5 of the 
Part VI Regulations entitled "Information to be Furnished by Applicant for Licence to Import Gas" 
sets ou t the information required to be filed by an applicant for a licence to import gas. These 
Regulations will be updated to reflect changes to the import/export regime under the CER Act. 
In addition, the Canada Energy Regulator may require further information  about import activities. 
With respect to import orders, applicants must file such information as the Canada Energy Regulator 
may require. However, no specific information requirements for order applications are set out in the 
Act or in the Part VI Regulat ions. 
 
11. No documents are required upon actual importation. However, the holder of an import 
authorization is required to provide the Canada Energy Regulator with information as required, 
including the actual volumes imported during the term of the autho rization, and their value in 
Canadian currency.  
 
12. There is no fee or administrative charge in respect of an application at present.  
 
13. There is no deposit or advance payment requirement associated with the issue of the import 
authorization.  
 
Condition s of licensing  
14. No import  license may be issued for a term in excess of 25 years. The validity of an order cannot 
be extended beyond this period without an amendment to the Act by Parliament.  
 
15. There is no penalty for the non -utilization of an order or a portion of an order. Orders are 
permissive only.  
 
16. Yes. They are transferable subject to Canada Energy Regulator and Governor -in-Council 
approval.  
 
17. Conditions attached to the issue of orders may include those matters prescribed by the Part VI 
Regulations, including: duration of the order, the period within which the import must commence, 
the quantities of import, points of importation into Canada , environmental requirements and the 
granting of export authorization by the appropriate foreign gov ernment agency.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. Apart from procedures defined in the Regulations made pursuant to the Act, including 
requirements associated with inspection, metering and reporting, no additional administrative 
procedures are required.  
 
19. Not applicable.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/22  
 
- 21 - 
 
  8  EXPORT AND IMPORT PERMITS ACT  
For this Export and Import Permits Act section, general responses in respect of dairy products and 
margarine; chicken, turkey, eggs and broiler hatching eggs and chicks; beef and veal; and wheat, 
barley an d their products have been provided for questions 5, 8 -10, 12 -19 of the Questionnaire. The 
replies to the remaining questions have been organized by separate product groups owing to 
difference in the procedures involved.  
 
8.1  General Responses Applicable to Da iry Products and Margarine; Chicken, Turkey, 
Eggs and Broiler Hatching Eggs and Chicks; Beef and Veal; and Wheat, Barley and their 
products  
Note: Effective 1 January 1995 (or 1 August 1995, for wheat, barley and their products, butter, dry 
whey and cream),  in compliance with its World Trade Organization (WTO) commitments, Canada 
converted its agricultural import controls to a system of tariff rate quotas (TRQs). Under these TRQs, 
imports within the TRQ level, i.e. within the access commitment, require a per mit issued through 
either the Supply -Managed Trade Controls or the Non -Supply Managed Trade Controls division of 
Global Affairs Canada in order to benefit from the lower rate of duty. Imports over the quota level, 
subject to higher rates of duty, may enter  under a General Import Permit. For margarine, food 
preparations, wheat, barley and their products, the TRQ is administered on a first -come, first -served 
basis. All other TRQs require an allocation to be eligible to use the TRQ.  
 
Effective 8 September 2008 , Canada implemented import controls for milk protein substances with 
a milk protein content of 85% or more by weight, calculated on the dry matter, that do not originate 
in a NAFTA country, Chile, Costa Rica, or Israel. Import controls were established to  implement a 
change in Canada's WTO obligations subsequent to a re -negotiation of a tariff concession, outlined 
in Joint Letters, as concluded with New Zealand, Switzerland and the EC under GATT Article XXVIII. 
A TRQ for milk protein substances with a milk  protein content of 85 % or more by weight, calculated 
on the dry matter, that do not originate in a NAFTA country, Chile, Costa Rica, or Israel, was 
established effective 1 April 2009. Certification of these changes to Canada's Schedule V became 
effective 6 July 2011.  
 
Effective 21 September 2017, the date of the entry into force of the Comprehensive Economic and 
Trade Agreement (CETA) between Canada and the European Union, import controls for milk protein 
substances, beef and veal and wheat, barley and the ir products were amended to remove controls 
for such products originating from an EU country or other CETA beneficiaries2. Consistent with its 
commitments, Canada also introduced two new bilateral cheese TRQs.  
 
Effective 30 December 2018, the Comprehensiv e and Progressive agreement for Trans -Pacific 
Partnership (CPTPP) entered into force. Consistent with its commitments, Canada introduced 16 new 
plurilateral TRQs for dairy products and four for poultry products.  
 
Effective 1 July 2020, the Canada -United St ates-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) entered into force, 
replacing the NAFTA. Consistent with its commitments, Canada introduced 16 new bilateral TRQs 
with the United States: 14 for dairy and two for poultry and egg products.  
 
Effective 1 April 2021, the Canada -UK Trade Continuity Agreement (Canada -UK TCA) entered into 
force. This agreement provides that the United Kingdom, and other beneficiaries of the Canada -UK 
TCA, continue to receive the same tariff treatment as was provided in CETA.  
 
Canada has initiated a comprehensive review of Canada's supply managed tariff rate quotas (TRQs), 
including all of Canada's dairy and poultry TRQs and covering all aspects of TRQ allocation and 
administration.  
 
Outline of system  
1. See Section 8.2.  
 
 
2 Regulations Defining "EU country of other CETA beneficiary", SOR/2017 -178, https://laws -
lois.justice.gc.ca/ .  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/22  
 
- 22 - 
 
  Purpose and cover age of licensing  
2.-4. See section 8.2.  
 
5. Licensing is maintained through regulations under the Export and Import Permits Act . Individual 
products are not designated in the Act.  
 
An Import  Control List has been established by regulation by the Governor -in-Council. The list 
includes goods, the import of which it is deemed necessary to control for any of the following 
purposes, namely:  
 
- to ensure, in accordance with the needs of Canada, the best possible supply and distribution 
of an article that is scarce in world markets or in Canada or is subject to government controls 
in the countries of origin or to allocation by intergovernmental arrangement;  
- to restrict, for the purpose of supporting any action taken under the Farm Products 
Marketing Agencies Act, the importation in any form of a like article to one produced or 
marketed in Canada the quantities of which are fixed or determined under that Act;  
- to implement any action taken under the Agricultural Marketing Programs Act or the 
Canadian Dairy Commission Act, with the object or effect of supporting the price of the 
article;  
- to implement an intergovernmental arrangement or commitment; and  
- where at any time it appears to the satisfaction of the Governor -in-Council on a report of 
the Minister made pursuant to an inquiry made under section 20 or 26 of the Canadian 
International Trade Tribunal Act by the Canadian International Trade Tribunal in  respect of 
any goods, that goods of any kind are being imported or are likely to be imported into 
Canada at such prices, in such quantities and under such conditions as to cause or threaten 
serious injury to the production in Canada of like or directly co mpetitive goods, any goods 
of the same kind may, by order of the Governor -in-Council, be included on the Import 
Control List in order to limit the importation of such goods to the extent and for the period 
that, in the opinion of the Governor -in-Council, i s necessary to prevent or remedy the injury.  
 
Once an item has been placed on the Import Control List , an import permit, either specific or general, 
is required by the Act to import such goods into Canada.  
 
Specific products can be made subject to either i ndividual licensing or open general licensing by the 
Minister.  
 
Licensing requirements may be abolished by the Governor -in-Council by removing an item from the  
Import Control List . Only Parliament can alter or amend the Export and Import Permits Act . 
 
The Minister may also decide to allocate shares of the within -TRQ access for any product in advance. 
Where this system is used, import permits (licences) are normally issued automatically up to the 
level of an importer's share.  
 
Procedures  
6.-7. See Section 8. 2. 
 
8. Permit applications that are complete and meet the general requirements are not normally 
refused. If eligibility criteria have not been met (e.g., no quota entitlement) or the application 
contains errors, the applicant will be informed; in such even t the applicant may correct the 
application or request reconsideration, or the applicant may choose to pay the over -access tariff and 
import the goods under a General Import Permit, which is automatically applicable.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. See Section 8.1. All residents of Canada are eligible to apply for an allocation, and permits are 
only granted to allocation holders.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/22  
 
- 23 - 
 
  Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. The applicant is required to provide the information requested on the application for an import 
permit. For certain products, additional information and/or documentation may be required, as 
indicated in the specific product group responses.  
 
11. See Section 8.2.  
 
12. Any applicant may  apply directly to the Global Affairs Canada in Ottawa for a permit, for which 
the associated fee ranges from CAN$15.00 to CAN$31.00, according to the value of the goods.  
 
For permits issued at other authorized (non -Government) computer terminals, permit f ees range 
from CAN$10.00 to CAN$26.00 (according to the value of the goods). This fee does not cover the 
cost of any additional services provided by such issuers.  
 
13. No. 
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. Import permits normally have a validity of 30 days. Req uests for extension of the validity period 
submitted prior to the original expiry date are considered on their merits, e.g., supporting 
documentation outlining extraordinary circumstances that prevented the importation of goods within 
the time frame of the  permit. If a permit has not been used, the importer may apply for its 
cancellation.  
 
15. There is no penalty for non -utilization of import permits that are returned for cancellation.  
 
16. Permits are not transferable between importers.  
 
17. Under very par ticular circumstances, special conditions may be attached from time to time.  
 
Additional information required under CETA, CPTPP and CUSMA - Under Annex 2 -A of Chapter 2 of 
the CETA, Canada reserved its right to apply an end -use requirement to imports under  the TRQ for 
industrial cheese; namely, that all imports under this TRQ be used as ingredients for further food 
processing (secondary manufacturing) imported in bulk (not for retail sale),  
 
Under Appendix A to Chapter 2 -D of Chapter 2 of the CPTPP, Canada reserved its right to apply end - 
use requirements to imports under certain CPTPP TRQs; specifically, that all imports under the TRQ 
for concentrated milk be for retail sale only; that specified percentages of the TRQs for milk, butter, 
yogurt and buttermil k be reserved for goods in bulk (not for retail sale) to be processed into 
ingredients for further food processing (secondary manufacturing).Additionally, that the industrial 
cheese TRQ be reserved for goods in bulk (not for retail sale) used as ingredient s for further food 
processing (secondary manufacturing); and, that the imports under the TRQ for eggs be used in 
priority for the importation of eggs for breaking purposes for further food processing (secondary 
manufacturing).  
 
Under Section A to Appendix 2 of Chapter 2 of the CUSMA, Canada reserved its right to apply end - 
use requirements to imports under certain CUSMA TRQs; that specified percentages of the milk, 
cream, and butter and cream powder TRQs, be reserved for goods in bulk (not for retail sale) to be 
processed into ingredients for further food processing (secondary manufacturing). Additionally, that 
the entire industrial cheeses TRQ be reserved for goods in bulk (not for retail sale) for further food 
processing and, that the imports under the TRQ  for eggs and egg products be used in priority for 
the importation of eggs for breaking purposes for further food processing (secondary 
manufacturing).  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. Additional information required under CETA, CPTPP and CUSMA - Where Canada allocates shares 
of the within -TRQ access, obtaining a shipment -specific import licence depends upon having received 
an allocation in advance. As part of TRQ allocation processes, C anada does not impose any of the 
following conditions: membership in an industry association; approval by an industry association of G/LIC/N/3/CAN/22  
 
- 24 - 
 
  the request for an import licence; a minimum importer or end user registered capital; or contractual 
or other relationship between the importer and a distributor in the Party's territory.  
 
19. Not applicable.  
 
8.2  Other Responses – by Product Groups  
8.2.1   Dairy Products  
Outline of system  
1. Dairy products (hereafter including margarine) remain on the Import Control List , established 
under the Export and Import Permits Act ; effective 1 January 1995, existing import controls on these 
products were replaced with tariff rate quotas (1 August 1995  for butter, cream and dry whey).  
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Dairy products were added to the Import Control List under the authority of Paragraph 5(1)(a) 
and (d) and Section 5.3 of the Export and Import Permits Act . This includes fluid milk, c ream, milk 
and cream powders, condensed milk, yoghurt and buttermilk, powdered buttermilk, whey powder, 
products consisting of natural milk constituents, butter, cheese of all types, dairy -based products 
falling within tariff item number 1901.90.33, ice cr eam and ice cream products, milk protein 
substances, and margarine and butter substitutes, excluding liquid margarines. All TRQs for dairy 
products are administered under an import licensing regime based on shipment specific permits and 
previous allocation  of import quota, with the exception of the WTO TRQ for fluid milk for personal 
consumption, which is administered by way of a general import permit.  
 
3. The licensing system applies: for global TRQs, to goods originating in and imported from all 
countries ; for CETA TRQs, to goods originating in and imported from CETA Parties; for CPTPP TRQs, 
to goods originating in and imported from CPTPP Parties; and for CUSMA TRQs, to goods originating 
from the United States.  
 
4. This licensing system is used to implemen t TRQs for dairy products in accordance with Canada's 
commitments under the WTO, CETA, CPTPP and CUSMA.  
 
5. See Section 8.1.  
 
Procedures  
6.I. Information on TRQs and related formalities is published on the Global Affairs Canada website . 
Some TRQ -specific information is published in the Notices to Importers published indi vidually 
for each TRQ, and which are available through the same website.  
 
II. TRQ size is determined on a yearly basis. There is no case where licenses are issued for import 
on a quarterly basis.  
 
III. For WTO TRQs, if an allocation holder uses less than 9 0% of its allocation (95% for cheese, 
products of natural milk constituents, dry whey, milk protein substances, and cream), the 
allocation in the next year will normally reflect the actual level of use. Allocations not used in 
a quota year cannot be carrie d into the next quota year.  
 
For CETA, CPTPP and CUSMA TRQs, if an allocation holder uses less than 95% of its allocation 
(90% for CPTPP and CUSMA ice cream and mixes TRQs, and CPTPP and CUSMA yogurt and 
buttermilk TRQs), the allocation in the next year wi ll be reduced downwards by the percentage 
of the allocation not utilized in the previous year. Allocations not used in a quota year cannot 
be carried into the next quota year.  
 
IV. Individual import permits are required for each shipment at the within -TRQ rates of duty.  
 
V-VII. Import permits are issued through an on -line automated system either (a) in the offices of 
customs brokers in major cities across Canada, or (b) at the Permit Operations, Client Services 
and Reporting Division of Global Af fairs Canada in Ottawa. Requests for permits are accepted G/LIC/N/3/CAN/22  
 
- 25 - 
 
  30 days prior to the expected date of arrival of the shipment to Canada. Import permits are 
normally issued with a validity period of 30 days around the date of arrival specified by 
importers (five days prior to and 24 days after). Utilization of permits for one quota year may 
not be utilized in the next quota year.  
 
VIII.  Allocation methods vary by TRQ. Please refer to the Notices to Importers referred to in 
response I for allocation and administra tion policies for individual TRQs.  
 
IX-X. Not applicable.  
 
XI. Supplementary imports may also be authorized for re -export or to meet domestic market 
shortages.  
 
7. Where there is no quantitative limit on importation of a product, importers can claim a Gene ral 
Import Permit.  
 
8. See Section 8.1.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. See Section 8.1.  
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. See Section 8.1.  
 
11. Documents required upon actual importation: import permit, customs entry documents and food 
certificates as required under the Canadian Dairy Products Act and Regulations . 
 
12. Any applicant may directly apply for a permit via customs brokers equipped with  authorized 
computer terminals. Permit fees range from CAN$10.00 to CAN$26.00 (according to the value of 
the goods). This fee does not cover the cost of any additional services provided by such issuers. 
Permits may also be requested, by fax, from Global Af fairs Canada in Ottawa for which the associated 
fees range from CAN$15.00 to CAN$31.00 (according to the value of the goods).  
 
13. No. 
 
Conditions of licensing  
14-17. See Section 8.1.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18-19. See Section 8.1.  
 
8.2.2   Chicken, Turkey and Eggs  
Outline of system  
1. Chicken, turkey, egg and egg products, and broiler hatching eggs and chicks remain on the Import 
Control List , established under the Export and Import Permits Act . Effective 1 January 1995, existing 
import controls on these products were replaced with TRQs.  
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Imports of chicken and chicken products, turkey and turkey products, eggs and egg products and 
broiler hatching eggs and chicks are subject to global TRQs and preferential TRQs under the CPTPP 
and CUSMA. All shipments within the TRQ access are administered using shipment specific permits 
and previous allocation of import quota. These products were placed on the Import Control List under 
the authority of Paragraph 5(1)(a) and (b) and Sections 5.3 and 6 of the Export and Import Permits 
Act. G/LIC/N/3/CAN/22  
 
- 26 - 
 
  3. The system  applies to: for global TRQs, goods originating in and imported from all countries; for 
CPTPP TRQs, goods originating in and imported from CPTPP Parties; and, for CUSMA TRQs, goods 
originating in and imported from the United States.  
 
4. The licensing  system is used to implement TRQs on chicken and chicken products, turkey and 
turkey products, eggs and egg products and broiler hatching eggs and chicks in accordance with 
Canada's commit ments under the WTO, the CPTPP and the CUSMA.  
 
5. See Section 8.1.  
 
Procedures  
6.I.   Information on TRQs and related formalities is published on the Global Affairs Canada website . 
Some TRQ -specific information is published in the Notices to Importers published individually 
for each TRQ, and which are available through t he same website.  
 
II. TRQ size and import license allocations are determined on a yearly basis.  
 
III. If an allocation holder for these products uses less than 90% of its allocation (95% in the case 
of CPTPP and CUSMA breaking eggs sub -TRQs, and WTO egg products and egg powder sub - 
TRQs), the allocation in the next year will be reduced by the percentage of the allocation not 
utilized in the previous quota year. Allocation not used in one quota year is not available for 
carry-over to the next quota year.  
 
IV. Individual import permits are required for each shipment at the within -TRQ rates of duty.  
 
V-VII. Import permits are issued through an on -line automated system either (a) in the offices of 
customs brokers in major cities across Canada, or (b) at the Pe rmit Operations, Client Services 
and Reporting Division of Global Affairs Canada in Ottawa. Requests for permits are accepted 
30 days prior to the expected date of arrival of the shipment to Canada. Import permits are 
normally issued with a validity period  of 30 days around the date of arrival specified by 
importers (five days prior to and 24 days after). Utilization of permits for one quota year is 
not allowed in the next quota year.  
 
VIII.  Allocation methods vary by TRQ. Please refer to the Notices to Im porters referred to in 
response I for allocation and administration policies for individual TRQs.  
 
IX-X. Not applicable.  
 
XI.   A supplementary import policy is in place to allow supplementary imports in certain situations, 
including market shortages. Supp lementary imports may also be authorized for re -export.  
 
7. Where there is no quantitative limit on importation of a product, importers can claim a General 
Import Permit at the border.  
 
8. See Section 8.1.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. See Section 8.1.  
 
Documentational and other requirements for applications for licence  
10. See Section 8.1.  
 
11. Import permits and normal customs entry forms are required in addition to health certificates 
as required under the Canada Agricultur e Products Act.  
 
12. Any applicant may directly apply for a permit via customs brokers equipped with authorized 
computer terminals. Permit fees range from CAN$10.00 to CAN$26.00 (according to the value of 
the goods). This fee does not cover the cost of any additional services provided by such issuers.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/22  
 
- 27 - 
 
  Permits may also be requested, by fax, from Global Affairs Canada in Ottawa for which the associated 
fees range from CAN$15.00 to CAN$31.00 (according to the value of the goods).  
 
13. No. 
 
Conditions of li censing  
14-17. See Section 8.1.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18-19. See Section 8.1.  
 
8.2.3   Beef and Veal  
Outline of system  
1. Effective 1 January 1995, beef and veal were placed on the Import Control List established under 
the Export and Import Permits Act ; and the existing import control measures for these products 
provided for under the Meat Import Act were replaced with a tariff rate quota (TRQ).  
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2-3. In order to implement Canada's WTO commitments, beef and veal were pla ced on the Import 
Control List . This action was taken under the authority of Paragraph 5(1)(a) and Section 5.3 of the 
Export and Import Permits Act . An import permit is required for each shipment of these products 
originating in and imported from all count ries except the United States; Mexico; Chile; an EU country 
or other CETA beneficiary, or a beneficiary of the Canada -UK Trade Continuity Agreement.  
 
4. This licensing system is used to implement TRQs for beef and veal in accordance with Canada's 
WTO commi tments.  
 
5. The issuance of permits is governed by the Export and Import Permits Act . 
 
Procedures  
6.I. Information on TRQs and related formalities is published in the Canada Gazette, in Messages 
to Industry and in Notices to Importers. The latter are distributed to customs brokers, 
associations and traders and are available upon request from Global Affairs Canada.  
 
Notices to Importers, M essages to Industry and additional information are also available on 
the Global Affairs Canada website at:  http://www.international.gc.ca/controls - 
controles/prod/agri/index.aspx?menu_id=3&menu=R . 
 
II. In keeping with its WTO commitments, Canada has established an annual TRQ level for 
imports of fresh, chilled and frozen beef and veal from non -FTA countries of 76,409 tonnes. 
Of this quantity, 29,600 tonnes are reserved for imports from New Zealand and 35,000 tonnes 
are reserved for imports from Australia. The balance of the TRQ, 11,809 tonnes (known as 
the MFN reserve) is reserved for imports from all other eligible suppliers, including those from  
New Zealand and Australia once their country -specific allocations are filled. Allocations are 
issued on a yearly basis;  however permits are shipment -specific and are valid for 30 days.  
 
III. Allocations and permits are issued to active importers of beef and veal. An allocation not used 
in one quota year will not be available for carryover to the next quota year. The names of 
allocation holders are available on our website: https://www.internat ional.gc.ca/controls - 
controles/prod/agri/beef -boeuf/index.aspx?lang=eng  
 
IV. Applications for allocations under the TRQ are accepted between 1 October and 15 November 
each year. Once a party has been issued an allocation, they may apply for permits any time 
throughout the year until the TRQ has been filled.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/22  
 
- 28 - 
 
  V. Permit applicatio ns input directly into the control system, with no errors, are issued 
immediately. Applications which require further information, or data entry at Global Affairs 
Canada are issued within 48 hours. Applications with complex issues may take longer.  
 
VI. Allocation advances are usually issued two weeks before the opening of the period of 
importation. Full allocations are issued shortly after the period of importation opens. Permits 
are only available once the allocation advance has been issued.  
 
VII. Consider ation of permits applications is effected by a single administrative organ.  
 
VIII. Allocations are determined based on market share. If an allocation holder required additional 
allocation, they can request this once they have reached 80% utilization of the ir current 
allocation. Additional allocation is granted on a first -come, first -served basis.  
 
IX-X. Not applicable.  
 
XI. Yes. 
 
7. Not applicable.  
 
8. Import permits are not normally refused if the criteria relating to issuance are met. If a permit is 
refused, for example, because of incomplete information on the application, the applicant is advised 
and given the opportunity to correct the anomaly.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for permit  
9. See Section 8.1. All residents of Canada are eligible to  apply for an allocation, and permits are 
only granted to allocation holders.  
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. Permit applications must include information including where the product is coming from, which 
port it is being shipped to, and date of arrival.  
 
11. Import permits and normal customs entry forms are required in addition to health certificates 
as required by the Canada Food Inspection Agency.  
 
12. Any applicant may directly apply for a permit via customs broke rs equipped with authorized 
computer terminals. Permit fees range from CAN$10.00 to CAN$26.00 (according to the value of 
the goods). This fee does not cover the cost of any additional services provided by such issuers.  
 
Permits may also be requested, by em ail, from Global Affairs Canada for which the associated fees 
range from CAN$15.00 to CAN$31.00 (according to the value of the goods).  
 
13. No. 
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. Permits are valid for 30 days and cannot be extended.  
 
15. No. 
 
16. No. 
 
17. No. 
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. No. 
 
19. Not applicable.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/22  
 
- 29 - 
 
  8.2.4   Wheat, Barley and their Products  
Outline of system  
1. Effective 1 August 1995, wheat, barley, wheat products, and barley products were placed on the 
Import Control List , established under the Export and Import Permits Act ; and existing import 
controls on these products were replaced with tariff rate quotas (T RQs).  
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. In order to fulfil its WTO commitments for wheat, barley and their products, Canada removed the 
requirement under the Canadian Wheat Board Act and related regulations for import licences for 
wheat, barley and th eir products and replaced them with a system of TRQs. This required placing 
them on the Import Control List under the authority of Paragraph 5(1)(a), 5(1)(b) and Section 5.3 
of the Export and Import Permits Act . 
 
3. The system applies to goods originating in and imported from all countries at the "within access" 
lower rate of duty. Once the TRQ levels are reached, the goods will be subject to the "over access" 
higher rate of duty, with the following exceptions:  
 
(a) If the good originates in and is imported  from a country with an applicable free trade 
agreement with Canada, the negotiated rate of duty applies even after the TRQ levels are 
reached.  
 
(b) In the case of the wheat and barley products listed below, the "over access" rate of duty is 
equal to the " within access" rate when imported from any country:  
 
(i) mixes and doughs, falling under tariff item No. 1901.20.14;  
(ii) pasta products, falling under tariff items Nos. 1902.11.21, 1902.19.12, 1902.19.22, 
1902.19.92, 1902.30.12 and 1902.30.31;  
(iii) cerea ls, falling under tariff items Nos. 1904.10.21, 1904.10.41, 1904.20.21, 
1904.20.41, 1904.30.21 and 1904.90.21;  
(iv) bread products, falling under tariff item Nos. 1905.10.21, 1905.10.51, 1905.40.31, 
1905.40.61 and 1905.90.32;  
(v) biscuits, waffles and wafe rs falling under tariff item Nos. 1905.31.22, 1905.31.92, 
1905.32.92 and 1905.90.43; and  
(vi) pretzels of tariff No. 1905.90.62 in packages of a weight not exceeding 1.36 kg.  
 
4. This licensing system is used to implement TRQs for wheat, barley and their p roducts in 
accordance with Canada's WTO commitments.  
 
5. Licensing is governed by the Export and Import Permits Act . 
 
Procedures  
6.I.  Information on TRQs and related formalities is published in the Canada Gazette and in Notices 
to Importers. The latter are distributed to customs brokers, associations and traders and are 
available upo n request from Global Affairs Canada.  
 
Notices to Importers and additional information are also available on the Global Affairs 
Canada's  website  at: http://www.international.gc.ca/controls - 
controles/prod/agri/index.aspx?menu_id=3&menu=R . 
 
II. The TRQ levels are: wheat - 226,883 tonnes, barley - 399,000 tonnes, wheat products - 
123,557 tonnes (grain equivalent) and barley products - 19,131 tonnes (grain equivalent). 
There are no allocations to importers. The TRQ is administered on a first -come, first -served 
basis from 1 August to 31 July each year.  
 
III. General Import Permits are issued to active importers of wheat, barley, wheat products and 
barley products on a first -come, first -served basis. After the TRQ levels are filled, impo rters 
may apply for Supplementary Imports Authorization at "within access" lower rate of duty if G/LIC/N/3/CAN/22  
 
- 30 - 
 
  the item is not directly substitutable nor available in Canada. TRQ not used in any quota year 
will not be available for carry -over to the quota year.  
 
IV. The General Import Permit number must be stated on the customs entry document. When the 
TRQ level for any product is reached, a different General Import Permit allows importation at 
the applicable over -access rate of duty.  
 
V-VII. Not applicable because the g eneral import permits are issued on a first -come, first -served 
basis.  
 
VIII. See Section 6(II).  
 
IX-X. Not applicable.  
 
XI.  No.  
 
7. Not applicable.  
 
8. Import permits are not normally refused if the criteria relating to issuance are met. If a permit is 
refused, for example, because of incomplete information on the application, the applicant is advised 
and given the opportunity to correct the anomaly.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. See Section 8.1. All residents of Canada are eligible to apply for an allocation, and permits are 
only granted to allocation holders.  
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. Permit applications must include information including where the product is coming from, which 
port it is being shipped to, and date of arrival.  
 
11. Normal customs entry forms indicating the appropriate General Import Permit are required.  
 
12. Any applicant may directly apply for a permit via customs brokers equipped with authorized 
computer termin als. Permit fees range from CAN$10.00 to CAN$26.00 (according to the value of 
the goods). This fee does not cover the cost of any additional services provided by such issuers.  
 
Permits may also be requested, by email, from Global Affairs Canada for which t he associated fees 
range from CAN$15.00 to CAN$31.00 (according to the value of the goods).  
 
13. No. 
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. Permits are valid for 30 days and cannot be extended.  
 
15. No. 
 
16. No. 
 
17. No. 
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. No. 
 
19. Not applicable.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/22  
 
- 31 - 
 
  8.2.5   Textiles  
Outline of system  
1. Textiles are on the Import Control List , established pursuant to the Export and Import Permits 
Act. Quantitative restraints (i.e., quotas) on imports of textiles were eliminated for goods shipped 
after 31 December 2004 in accordance with the WTO Agreement on Textiles and Clothing (ATC). 
Individual import licensing or open general licensing requirements for such goods were eliminated 
on 1 April 2005. An import licensing system remains in place for textiles s hipped in connection with 
Tariff Preference Level (TPL) provisions established pursuant to the Canada -United States -Mexico, 
Canada -Chile, Canada -Costa Rica, and Canada -Honduras Free Trade Agreements and for origin 
quotas established pursuant to the Canada -European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade 
Agreement (CETA) and the Canada -UK Trade Continuity Agreement (Canada -UK TCA).  
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Textile products on the Import Control List which are subject to individual import permits  for TPL 
preferential access are as follows: cotton or man -made fibre fabrics and made -up goods (CUSMA, 
Chile, Costa Rica); wool fabrics and made -up goods (Chile and Costa Rica); cotton or man -made 
fibre spun yarns (CUSMA, Chile, Costa Rica), and fabrics a nd made -up goods (Honduras). Origin 
quotas established under the CETA and the Canada -UK TCA include certain woven fabrics, sewing 
thread, twine, carpets, plastic -coated/covered/laminated fabrics, linoleum, transmission or conveyor 
belts or belting, technic al textile products, bed linens, toilet and kitchen linens, floor -cloths, 
polishing -cloths, dish -cloths and dusters.  
 
3. The system applies to imports from the United States, Mexico, Chile, Costa Rica, Honduras, the 
European Union or other CETA beneficiari es, and beneficiaries of the Canada -UK TCA.  
 
4. TPLs are special FTA provisions that provide tariff preferences for imports of non -originating textile 
and apparel goods up to a specified quantity. Above these specified quantities, non -originating textile 
and apparel goods are subject to the Most -Favoured -Nation rate of duty. The import licensing system 
is in place in order to implement quantitative import limits on goods shipped in connection with TPL 
provisions established pursuant to the Free Trade Agreem ents. 
 
Origin quotas are alternative rules of origin that enable preferential tariff access for imports of eligible 
textile goods up to a specified quantity. Above these specified quantities, textile goods that do not 
meet the main rules of origin are subj ect to the Most -Favoured -Nation rate of duty. The import 
licensing system is in place in order to implement quantitative import limits on goods shipped in 
connection with origin quota provisions established pursuant to the CETA and the Canada -UK TCA.  
 
5. The Export and Import Permits Act provides for the establishment of an Import Control List to 
implement an intergovernmental arrangement or to prevent the frustration or the circumvention of 
such arrangements. Import permits are issued for goods, including textiles, on the Import Control 
List. 
 
Procedures  
6.I.  Information on TPLs and origin quotas and related formalities are published in the Canada 
Gazette, Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) D -Memoranda and Customs Notice and in 
Notices to Importers. This  information is available to customs brokers, associations and 
traders and upon request from Global Affairs Canada. Notices to Importers and additional 
information are also available on Global Affairs Canada and CBSA websites at:  
 
TPL: http://www.international.gc.ca/controls -controles/textiles/index.aspx?menu_id=21&view=d  
http://www.cbsa -asfc.gc.ca/publications/dm -md/d11/d11 -4-22-eng.html  
 
Origin Quotas:  http://www.international.gc.ca/controls -controles/prod/ceta_origin_quotas - 
contingents_origine_aecg.aspx?lang=eng   
https://www.international.gc.ca/trade -commerce/controls -controles/notices -
avis/1037.aspx?lang=eng  
https://www.cbsa -asfc.gc.ca/publications/cn -ad/cn17 -30-eng.html  
 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/22  
 
- 32 - 
 
  II. The TPL level primary units of measure (other than for yarns) are converted into Squa re Metre 
Equivalents (SMEs) by means of conversion factors found in each FTA. The yearly TPL levels 
for each FTA are as follows:  
- Canada -Honduras Free Trade Agreement – Fabrics and made -up goods: 1,000,000.  
- Canada -Costa Rica Free Trade Agreement - Cotto n or man -made fabrics and made -up 
goods: 1,000,000 SME; Wool fabrics and made -up goods: 250,000 SME; and Cotton or 
man-made fibre spun yarn: 150,000 kg.  
- Canada -Chile Free Trade Agreement - Cotton or man -made fabrics and made -up goods 
(limited to goods of  Chapter 60 of the HS): 1,000,000 SME; Wool fabrics and made -up 
goods: 250,000 SME; and Cotton or man -made fibre spun yarn: 500,000 kg.  
- Canada -United States -Mexico Agreement - United States: Cotton or man -made fabrics 
and made -up goods: 15,000,000 SME; a nd Cotton or man -made fibre spun yarn: 
1,000,000 kg; Mexico: Cotton or man -made fabrics and made -up goods: 7,000,000 
SME; and Cotton or man -made fibre spun yarn: 1,000,000 kg.  
- There are no allocations to importers. The TPLs are administered on a first -come, first -
served basis from 1 January to 31 December each year.  
 
The origin quotas are measured by kilograms and square metres. The yearly origin quota levels are 
found in Table C.3 of the Protocol on rules of origin and origin procedures of the CETA; the same list 
has been incorporated by reference into the Canada -UK TCA: http://international.gc.ca/trade - 
commerce/trade -agreements -accords -commerciaux/agr -acc/ceta -aecg/text - 
texte/P1.aspx?lang=eng#5_1  
 
- There are no allocati ons to importers.  
- The origin quotas are administered on a first -come, first -served basis from 1 January to 31 
December each year.  
 
III. Available TPL or origin quotas quantities not used in one year are not available to carry -over 
to the following year.  
 
IV. Applications for TPL and origin quota permits are accepted until the TPL or origin quota level 
for a given TPL or origin quota is filled.  
 
V. Permit applications input directly into the control system, with no errors, are issued 
immediately. Applications which require further information, or data entry at GAC are issued 
within 48 hours. Applications with complex issues may take longer.  
 
VI. Not applicable because import permits are issued on a first -come, first -served basis.  
 
VII. Consideration of permit applications is effected by a single administrative organ.  
 
VIII. TPLs and origin quotas are made available on a first -come, first -served basis, whereby import 
permits are issued to importers on demand until the TPL or origin q uota has been filled in a 
given year.  
 
IX-X.  Not applicable.  
 
XI. No. 
 
7. Not applicable.  
 
8. Import permits are not normally refused if the criteria relating to issuance are met. If a permit is 
refused, for example, because of incomplete information on t he application, the applicant is advised 
and given the opportunity to correct the anomaly.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. Applicants are eligible if they are a "resident of Canada." "Resident of Canada" is defined as 
meaning, in the case  of a natural person, a person who ordinarily resides in Canada and, in the case 
of a corporation, a corporation having its head office in Canada or operating a branch office in 
Canada.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/22  
 
- 33 - 
 
  Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. Instructions and the information required to complete an import permit application and the form 
can be found on the web at:  
 
- http://www.international.gc.ca/controls -controles/about -
a_propos/impor/permits -licences.aspx  
- http://www.cbsa -asfc.gc.ca/publications/dm -md/d11/d11 -4-22-eng.html  
- https://www.cbsa -asfc.gc.ca/publications/cn -ad/cn17 -30-eng.html  
 
11. Import permit s and normal customs entry forms are required.  
 
12. Any applicant may directly apply for a permit via customs brokers equipped with authorized 
computer terminals. Permit fees range from CAN$10.00 to CAN$26.00 (according to the value of 
the goods). This fee  does not cover the cost of any additional services provided by such issuers.  
 
Permits may also be requested, by email, from Global Affairs Canada for which the associated fees 
range from CAN$15.00 to CAN$31.00 (according to the value of the goods).  
 
13. No. 
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. A permit is valid for 30 days. Should the permit expire, the cancellation and subsequent issuance 
of a replacement permit may be completed upon request.  
 
15. No. 
 
16. Licences are not transferable.  
 
17. No. 
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. No. 
 
19. Import permits issued pursuant to the Export and Import Permits Act are not a condition of 
foreign exchange transactions.  
 
8.2.6   Clothing  
Outline of system  
1. Clothing is on the Import Control List , established pursuant to t he Export and Import Permits Act . 
Quantitative restraints (i.e., quotas) on imports of clothing and handbags were eliminated for goods 
shipped after 31 December 2004 in accordance with the WTO Agreement on Textiles and Clothing 
(ATC). Individual import lic ensing or open general licensing requirements for such goods were 
eliminated on 1 April 2005. An import licensing system remains in place for clothing shipped in 
connection with Tariff Preference Level (TPL) provisions established pursuant to the Canada -United 
States -Mexico, Canada -Chile, Canada -Costa Rica, and Canada -Honduras Free Trade Agreements 
and for origin quotas established pursuant to CETA and the Canada -UK TCA.  
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Clothing products on the Import Control List subject to individual import permits for TPL are as 
follows: wool apparel (CUSMA, Chile); cotton or man -made fibre apparel (CUSMA, Chile); and 
apparel (Costa Rica, Honduras). Origin quotas established under CETA and incorporated by reference 
in the Canada -UK TCA include certain knitted or woven garments such as: men's or boys' shirts, 
ensembles, jackets, blazers, trousers, bib and brace overalls, breeches, shorts tracksuits, ski suits, 
and swimwear; women's or girls' blouses, shirts, t -shirts, jerseys, pullove rs, cardigans, pantyhose, 
tights, stockings, socks, overcoats, raincoats, carcoats, capes, cloaks, anoraks, windcheaters, wind G/LIC/N/3/CAN/22  
 
- 34 - 
 
  jackets, suits, ensembles, jackets, blazers, dresses, skirts, divided skirts, trousers, bib and brace 
overalls, breeches, shorts,  brassieres, girdles, corsets, braces, suspenders, and garters.  
 
3. The system applies to imports from the United States; Mexico; Chile; Costa Rica; Honduras; the 
European Union or other CETA beneficiaries, and beneficiaries of the Canada -UK TCA.  
 
4. TPLs are special FTA provisions that provide tariff preferences for imports of non -originating textile 
and apparel goods up to a specified quantity. Above these specified quantities, non -originating textile 
and apparel goods are subject to the Most -Favoured -Nation rate of duty. The import licensing system 
is in place in order to administer quantitative import limits on goods shipped in connection with TPL 
provisions established pursuant to these Free Trade Agreements.  
 
Origin quotas are alternative rules of orig in that enable preferential tariff access for imports of eligible 
apparel goods up to a specified quantity. Above these specified quantities, apparel goods that do 
not meet the main rules of origin are subject to the Most -Favoured -Nation rate of duty. The import 
licensing system is in place in order to implement quantitative import limits on goods shipped in 
connection with origin quota provisions established pursuant to the CETA and the Canada -UK TCA.  
 
5. The Export and Import Permits Act provides for the establishment of an Import Control List to 
implement an intergovernmental arrangement or to prevent the frustration or the circumvention of 
such arrangements. Import permits are issued for goods, including clothing, on the Import Control 
List. 
 
Procedures  
6.I.  Information on TPLs and origin quotas and related formalities are published in the Canada 
Gazette, Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) D -Memoranda and Customs Notice and in 
Notices to Importers. This information is available to customs brokers, asso ciations and 
traders and upon request from Global Affairs Canada. Notices to Importers and additional 
information are also available on the Global Affairs Canada and CBSA websites at:  
 
TPL: http://www.international.gc.ca/controls -controles/textiles/index.aspx?menu_id=21&view=d  
http://www. cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/publications/dm -md/d11/d11 -4-22-eng.html  
 
Origin Quotas:  http://www.international.gc.ca/controls -controles/prod/ceta_origin_quotas - 
contingents_origine_aecg.aspx?lang=eng   
https://www.international.gc.ca/trade -commerce/controls -controles/notices - 
avis/1037.a spx?lang=eng  
https://www.cbsa -asfc.gc.ca/publications/cn -ad/cn17 -30-eng.html  
 
II. The TPL level primary u nits of measure are converted into Square Metre Equivalents (SME) by 
means of conversion factors found in each FTA. The yearly TPL levels for each FTA are as 
follows:  
 
- Canada -Honduras Free Trade Agreement – Apparel goods: 4,000,000 SME.  
- Canada -Costa Rica F ree Trade Agreement - Apparel goods: 1,379,570 SME.  
- Canada -Chile Free Trade Agreement - Cotton or man -made fibre apparel: 2,252,324 SME; 
and Wool apparel: 112,616 SME.  
- Canada -United States -Mexico Agreement - United States: Cotton or man -made fibre apparel: 
20,000,000 SME; and Wool apparel: 700,000; Mexico: Cotton or man -made fibre apparel: 
6,000,000 SME; and Wool apparel: 250,000 SME.  
- There are no allocations to importers. The TPLs are administered on a first -come, first - served 
basis from 1 January  to 31 December each year.  
 
The origin quotas are measured by units, kilograms, pairs or dozens. The yearly origin quota 
levels are found in Table C.4 of the Protocol on rules of origin and origin procedures of the 
CETA and as incorporated by reference in the Canada -UK TCA: 
http://international.gc.ca/trade -commerce/trade -agreements -accords -commerciaux/agr -
acc/ceta -aecg/text -texte/P1.aspx?lang=eng#5_1  
 
- There are no allocations to importers  
- The origin quotas are administered on a first -come, first -served basis from 1 January to 31 
December each year.  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/22  
 
- 35 - 
 
  III. TPL or origin quota not used in one year is not available for carry -over in the following year.  
 
IV. Applications for TPL pe rmits and origin quotas are accepted until the TPL or origin quota level 
for a given TPL or origin quota is filled.  
 
V. Permit applications input directly into the control system, with no errors, are issued 
immediately. Applications which require further i nformation, or data entry at GAC are issued 
within 48 hours. Applications with complex issues may take longer.  
 
VI. Not applicable because the import permits are issued on a first -come, first -served basis.  
 
VII. Consideration of permit applications is effe cted by a single administrative organ.  
 
VIII. TPL and origin quotas are made available on a first -come, first -served basis, whereby import 
permits are issued to importers on demand until the TPL or origin quota has been filled in a 
given year.  
 
IX-X. Not applicable.  
 
XI.  No.  
 
7. Not applicable.  
 
8. Import permits are not normally refused if the criteria relating to issuance are met. If a permit is 
refused, for example, because of incomplete information on the application, the applicant is advised 
and given the opportunity to correct the application.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. Applicants are eligible if they are a "resident of Canada." "Resident of Canada" is defined as 
meaning, in the case of a natural person, a person who ordina rily resides in Canada and, in the case 
of a corporation, a corporation having its head office in Canada or operating a branch office in 
Canada.  
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. Instructions and the information requir ed to complete an import permit application and the form 
can be found on the web at:  
 
- http://www.international.gc.ca/controls -controles/about -
a_propos/impor/permits -licences.aspx?menu_id=62&view=d  
- http://www.cbsa -asfc.gc.ca/publications/dm -md/d11/d11 -4-22-eng.html  
- https://www.cbsa -asfc.gc.ca/publications/cn -ad/cn17 -30-eng.html  
 
11. Import permits and normal customs entry forms are required.  
 
12. Any appl icant may directly apply for a permit via customs brokers with access to the Export and 
Import Controls System. Import permit fees range from CAN$10.00 to CAN$26.00 (according to the 
value of the goods). This fee does not cover the cost of any additional s ervices provided by such 
issuers. Import permits may also be requested, by email, from Global Affairs Canada for which the 
associated fees range from CAN$15.00 to CAN$31.00 (according to the value of the goods).  
 
13. No. 
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. A perm it is valid for 30 days. Should the permit expire, the cancellation and subsequent issuance 
of a replacement permit may be completed upon request.  
 
15. No. 
 
16. Permits are not transferable.  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/22  
 
- 36 - 
 
  17.(a)No.  
 
(b)  No.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. No. 
 
19. Import permits issued pursuant to the Export and Import Permits Act are not a condition of 
foreign exchange transactions.  
 
8.2.7   Carbon and Specialty Steel  
Outline of system  
1. Carbon and specialty steel products are found in items 80 and 81 of the Import Control List , 
established under the Export and Import Permits Act . Products under items 80 and 81 are subject 
to general import permits with reporting and record keeping require ments (i.e., under General 
Import Permits No. 80 and 81) . 
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Carbon steel products were placed on the Import Control List under the authority of 
subsection  5(3) of the Export and Import Permits Act with effect 1 September 1986, for the purpose 
of monitoring their entry into Canada following a reference to the Canadian Import Tribunal pursuant 
to section 48 of the Special Import Measures Act . The Tribunal concluded that c arbon steel products 
were being and likely to be imported into Canada at such prices, in such quantities and under such 
conditions as to make it advisable to collect information with respect to the importation of such 
goods. Carbon steel products, under it em 80 of the Import Control List , are defined as semi -finished 
steel products (ingots, blooms, billets, slabs and sheet bars), plate, sheet and strip, wire rods, wire 
and wire products, railway -type products, bars, structural shapes and units, and pipes an d tubes.  
 
Specialty steel products were added to the Import Control List on 1 June 1987, following an 
amendment to the Export and Import Permits Act , in order for the monitoring system for steel to be 
comprehensive. Specialty steel products, under item 81 of the Import Control List , are defined as 
stainless steel flat -rolled products (sheet, strip and plate), stainless steel bar, stainless steel pipe 
and tube, stainless steel wire and wire products, stainless steel in ingots or other primary forms, 
semi-finished products of stainless steel, alloy tool steel, mold steel and high -speed steel.  
 
Carbon and specialty steel products were re -added to the Import Control List on 2 November 2020 
under the authority of subsection 5(1)(e) and section 6 of the Export and  Import Permits Act for the 
purpose of implementing an intergovernmental arrangement or commitment, specifically, the Joint 
Statement by Canada and the United States on Section 232 Duties on Steel and Aluminum issued 
on 17 May 2019.  
 
Products subject to Ge neral Import Permits No. 80 and 81 are subject to reporting and record 
keeping requirements as a term and condition of their applicable general import permit (effective 26 
August 2019).  
 
3. The import monitoring program applies to carbon and specialty stee l imports from all countries.  
 
4. The General Import Permits No. 80 and 81 are not intended to restrict the quantity or value of 
imports, but to monitor the volume and the origin of carbon and specialty steel products.  
 
5. The action of placing carbon and specialty steel products on the Import Control List was taken 
under the authority of paragraph 5(1)(e) and section 6 of the Export and Import Permits Act . 
 
Whether a product meets the description found in the general import permits is determined by the 
importer and may be subject to confirmation by the Canada Border Services Agency.  
 
The Governor in Council may repeal or amend the Import Control List . 
 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/22  
 
- 37 - 
 
  Procedures  
6. N/A. 
 
7. N/A. 
 
8. N/A. 
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. Any resident of Canada may use the General Import Permits No. 80 and 81.  
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. N/A. 
 
11. Customs entry forms.  
 
12. N/A. 
 
13. No. 
 
Conditions of licensing  
14-17. For General Import Permits No. 80  and 81, the applicable general import permit number (80 
or 81) must simply be stated on the customs entry document. However, the permits have reporting 
and record keeping requirements as part of the terms and conditions of use. Detailed information 
on the  steel general import permits and their terms and conditions is available in the Notice to 
Importers No. 1032: Steel General Import Permits No. 80 and 81 – Carbon and Specialty Steel 
Products, published on the website of Global Affairs Canada.  
 
Other proce dural requirements  
18. No. 
 
19. N/A. 
 
8.2.8   Aluminum  
Outline of system  
1. Aluminum products are found in item 83 of the Import Control List , established under the Export 
and Import Permits Act . Products under item 83 are subject to a general import permit with reporting 
and record keeping requirements (i.e., General Import Permit No. 83) . 
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Aluminum products were placed on the Import Control List under the authority of 
subsection  5(1)(e) and section 6 of the Export and Import Permits Act (effective 1 September 2019) 
for the purpose of implementing an intergovernmental arrangement or commitment, specifically, 
the Joint Statement by Canada and the United States on Section 232 Duties on Steel and Aluminum 
issued on 17 May 2019. Aluminum products, under item 83 of the Import Control List are defined 
as: alloyed and not alloyed unwrought aluminum products, and wrought aluminum products limited 
to bars, rods, profiles, wires, plates, shee ts, strips, foils, tubes and pipes, tube and pipe fittings and 
other articles of castings and forgings.  
 
Products subject to the General Import Permit No. 83 are subject to reporting and record keeping 
requirements as part of the terms and conditions of us e (effective 1 September 2019).  
 
3. The monitoring  system applies to certain aluminum imports from all countries.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/22  
 
- 38 - 
 
  4. The General Import Permit No. 83 for aluminum  is not intended to restrict the quantity or value 
of imports, but to monitor the volume and the origin of certain aluminum products.  
 
5. The action of placing aluminum products on the Import Control List was taken under the authority 
of subsection 5(1)(e)  and section 6 of the Export and Import Permits Act . 
 
Whether a product meets the description found in the general import permit is determined by the 
importer and may be subject to confirmation by the Canada Border Services Agency.  
 
The Governor in Council  may repeal or amend the Import Control List . 
 
Procedures  
6. N/A. 
 
7. N/A. 
 
8. N/A. 
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. Any resident of Canada may use the General Import Permit No. 83.  
 
Documentational and other requirements for application f or licence  
10. N/A. 
 
11. Customs entry forms.  
 
12. No. 
 
13. No. 
 
Conditions of licensing  
14-17. The General Import Permit No. 83 must simply be stated on the customs entry document. 
However, the permit has reporting and record keeping requirements as part of the terms and 
conditions of use. Detailed information on the aluminum general import p ermit and its terms and 
conditions is available in the Notice to Importers No. 969: Item 83 – Aluminum Products, published 
on the website of Global Affairs Canada.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. No. 
 
19. N/A. 
 
9  PLANT PROTECTION ACT  
Outline of system  
1. A permit to import outlines phytosanitary conditions which must be met prior to export from the 
country of origin, during export and upon arrival in Canada. These conditions are required to prevent 
the introduction or spread within Canada of plan t pests.  
 
Purpose and coverage of licensing  
2. In accordance with Section 31 of the Plant Protection Regulations and pursuant to the Plant 
Protection Act , a prospective importer must apply in writing for an import permit. According to 
section 32 and sectio n 43 of the Plant Protection Regulations , the Minister of Agriculture and Agri -
Food, on the basis of a pest risk assessment, may issue a permit for the importation of a thing that 
is either a plant pest, constitutes or could constitute a biological obstacl e to the control of a plant G/LIC/N/3/CAN/22  
 
- 39 - 
 
  pest or is/could be infested with either a plant pest or a biological obstacle to the control of a plant 
pest if, the Minister determines that every precaution necessary can and will be taken to prevent 
the introduction into Can ada or the establishment and spread within Canada of a plant pest or 
biological obstacle to the control of a plant pest.  
 
3. The system applies to plant pests (e.g., pathogens, insects, weeds, molluscs), plants and plant 
products and any other article whos e importation into Canada is regulated under the Plant Protection 
Act and Regulations . 
 
4. The permit system is not intended to restrict the quantity or value of imports. The purpose of the 
import permit system is to ensure that plant pests, plants and pla nt products and other articles 
regulated under the Plant Protection Act and Regulations imported in Canada conform to Canada's 
plant protection phytosanitary import requirements. The permit system is one measure used to 
reduce the risk of introduction into  and spread in Canada of pests injurious to plants.  
 
5. The permit system is legislated and regulated under the Plant Protection Act and the Plant 
Protection Regulations . The permit system is statutorily required. The determination that a product 
needs a p ermit is based on the assessment of the phytosanitary risk it poses. Lastly, it is not possible 
for the government to abolish the system without a regulatory amendment.  
 
Procedures  
6. There are no quantitative or value limits on the importation of products from other countries.  
 
7.(a)  An importer must obtain a valid import permit prior to importation. Once application for a 
permit is made with all required information and a review of the application has been 
completed, the CFIA will endeavour to is sue a Permit to Import between five to ten business 
days (subject to change).  
 
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency will not issue an import permit for regulated 
commodities that have already arrived in Canada. This is because an import permit is not 
retroa ctive.  
 
(b) No. An application cannot be granted immediately upon request as it must be subject to a 
pest risk review.  
 
(c) No, there are no limitations as to the period of the year in which an application for a permit 
to import can be submitted.  
 
(d) Yes. All applications for a permit to import are sent to and approved by one administrative 
body. All applications are sent to the Centre of Administration, Regulatory Permissions and 
Registration Division, National Service Centres Directorate of the Canadian Food Inspection 
Agency. However, some commodities may be regulated by other governments departments 
and may be subject to other requirements.  
 
Note: The Centre of Administration of the Canadian Food Inspection Agency delivers and 
coordinates the full range  of operational administrative services required for import related  
permissions under this section ( http://inspection.gc.ca/about -the-cfia/permits -licences -and- 
approvals/eng/1395348112901/1395348237219 ). 
 
8. The plant protection import permit may be refused on the grounds that the plants, plant products 
or other matter intended for importation will result or is likely to result in the introduction into 
Canada of a plant pest. A permit can also be refuse d or revoked if a person has contravened the Act 
and/or Regulations. The importer is advised of the refusal or revocation. The Plant Protection Act or 
Plant Protection Regulations do not prescribe an appeal procedure in cases where a permit is refused 
or revoked.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. An applicant for a Permit to Import must be one of the following: 1) a Canadian citizen or 
permanent resident; 2) a person authorized under the laws of Canada to reside in Canada for a 
period of six  months or more and who will have possession, care or control of the thing to be G/LIC/N/3/CAN/22  
 
- 40 - 
 
  imported; or 3) in the case of a corporation with a place of business in Canada, the applicant must 
be an agent or officer of the corporation who resides in Canada.  
 
Note: The  CFIA will not accept applications for Permits to Import submitted by brokerage firms on 
behalf of their clients. The actual Canadian importer (person/company) must submit the application.  
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for a permi t to import  
10. An application for a permit shall be in writing, signed and dated by the person applying for the 
permit and contain the following information:  
 
(a) The name, complete address and telephone number of the person;  
(b) The name, complete address and telephone number of the owner of the thing to be imported, 
if different from paragraph (a);  
(c) The name and complete address of the exporter;  
(d) A description and the common and scientific names of the thing;  
(e) The quantity of the thing;  
(f) The purpose for which the thing is to be admitted into Canada;  
(g) The place of entry and the location of the place of destination of the thing in Canada;  
(h) The country and place where the thing was propagated or produced, and the country and 
place from which it was shipped to Canada;  
(i) The number of packages, if sent by mail or courier service; and  
(j) Any other information respecting any activity undertaken in respect of the thing, or the 
precautions that will be taken to prevent the spread ing of any pest or biological obstacle to 
the control of a pest while the thing is transported, as the Minister may require.  
 
11. The documents (e.g., phytosanitary certificate, certificate of inspection, certificate of treatment, 
certificate of origin, af fidavit, etc.) specified on the permit are required at the time of importation.  
 
12. Fees for each permit application can range between CAN$15 and CAN$250, depending on the 
reason for importation and the need for a pest risk assessment.  
 
13. There is no de posit or advance payment that is required or associated with the issuance of a 
permit. However, full payment is required before a permit can be issued.  
 
Conditions of permit  
14. Permits to import are valid for the period of time specified on the permit. Th e permit to import 
is valid for multiple shipments and unlimited quantities unless otherwise specified. When a permit 
has expired, it is the responsibility of the importer to apply for a new permit.  
 
15. There is no penalty for the non -utilization of a per mit or a portion of a permit.  
 
16. Import permits are not transferable between importers.  
 
17. The issuance of an import permit relates only to the provisions of the Plant Protection Act and 
Regulations . There may be requirements under other Canadian legislation that also apply.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. Generally, there are no other administrative procedures apart from the import permit application 
procedures.  
 
19. Not applicable.  
 
10  HEALTH OF ANIMALS ACT  
Outline of system  
1. Under the Health of Animals Act and the Health of Animals Regulations, along with the associated 
Import Reference Documents for terrestrial animal health, the importation of live terrestrial and 
aquatic animals, animal and aquatic animal products, animal b y-products, aquatic animal carcases, G/LIC/N/3/CAN/22  
 
- 41 - 
 
  animal pathogens, and other things (such as used equipment) may be imported under certain 
conditions. Imports are permitted from countries that have negotiated export market access with 
Canada and comply with the negoti ated animal health conditions.  
 
Animal products and by -products used in the preparation of food, cosmetics, drugs (including 
pharmaceuticals for use in animals, pharmaceuticals and biologics for human use, and natural health 
products for use in animals or humans), and medical devices are also regulated by Health Canada 
through product -specific regulatory programs. For these products, the regulatory requirements for 
animal products and by -products are administered by the CFIA under the authority of the Food and 
Drugs Act and the Food and Drug Regulations. Veterinary biologics and their components are 
regulated by the CFIA under the Health of Animals Act and the Health of Animals Regulations. 
Importers must comply with the import requirements of all Canadian g overnment departments or 
agencies for a particular commodity.  
 
Authority for animal pathogens is shared between the CFIA and the Public Health Agency of Canada 
(PHAC). In 2013 an Order in Council (OIC SI/2013 -41) transferred authority from the Minister of 
Agriculture to the Minister of Health for the responsibility of pure cultures of indigenous, terrestrial 
animal pathogens (HAR 51a). The CFIA maintains regulatory authority over non -indigenous 
terrestrial animal pathogens, aquatic animal pathogens and anim al pathogens imported in an animal 
product or by -product (HAR 51a and 51b). For the pathogens under its authority, PHAC administers 
pathogen and toxins licences to certified containment laboratories for periods of 1 to 5 years 
depending on the risk groups of the pathogens. For pathogens under CFIA authority, answers are 
provided below.  
 
In response to changes in health status, import requirements can change at any time.  
 
For importation of aquatic animals (finfish, molluscs and crustaceans) and their produc ts listed in 
the Health of Animals Regulations as susceptible to the diseases of concern, a permit and a 
zoosanitary certificate is required. For importation of aquatic animals (finfish, molluscs and 
crustaceans) and their products from shared waters withi n the U.S. which have been established as 
having the same health status for specific diseases of concern and are intended for specific end uses 
such as those for human consumption (Food Service, Retail Use and Further Processing), only an 
import permit may  be required. Import permits are not required for aquatic animals not considered 
susceptible to diseases of concern and for products that are considered safe in accordance with 
international standards of the OIE or as a result of a risk assessment.  
 
For th e most up to date information and additional details on CFIA import requirements, please refer 
to the Automated Import Reference System (AIRS) at: 
http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/imp/ airse.shtml  
 
Purpose and coverage of licensing  
2. The following products are covered: Terrestrial live animals and germplasm, Susceptible species 
of live aquatic animals (finfish, molluscs and crustaceans) and their germ plasm and products, 
Terrestrial animal products and by -products, Animal pathogens and Veterinary biologics.  
 
For countries other than the U.S., a permit is required for:  
 
• all terrestrial animals (except pet dogs and domesticated cats, certain rodents, reptiles 
excluding turtles and their eggs, amphibians and marine mammals),  
• susceptible species of live aquatic animals, germplasm and their products  
• semen (except canine),  
• embryos,  
• veterinary biologics,  
• animal pathogens (CFIA permit or PHAC pathog en and toxin license), and  
• certain animal products and by -products depending on the species and country of origin.  
 
For importation from the U.S., a permit is required for the following:  
 
• semen (except for equine and canine),  
• embryos,  
• veterinary biologics,  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/22  
 
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  • psittacine birds (other than pet birds),  
• turtles, tortoises,  
• skunks, foxes and raccoons,  
• some ruminants and swine,  
• elephants,  
• honeybees,  
• dogs under eight months of age (commercial shipments and for research)  
• certain rodents,  
• certain animal produ cts and by -products dependent on species,  
• susceptible species of live aquatic animals, germplasm and their products, and  
• animal pathogens (CFIA permit or PHAC pathogen and toxin license).  
 
3. For terrestrial animals (both live animals and products/by -products): Imports are permitted only 
from countries which are recognized by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency as free of serious 
animal diseases which may affect the species of animal imported. However, certain animal products 
may be importe d from countries that are not free of these diseases under an import permit if they 
have been treated or processed to eliminate the disease. Imports may also be restricted on behalf 
of other government agencies when there is concern about a disease which m ay be transmitted to 
people.  
 
For aquatic animals: Imports are permitted only from countries with which a zoosanitary certificate 
has been negotiated based on an evaluation of their aquatic animal health regulatory system. 
Imports of aquatic animals and th eir products may be permitted without a zoosanitary certificate 
only from shared waters with the US that have been established as having the same health status 
for diseases of concern and are intended for certain end uses.  
 
For animal pathogens: Imports ma y be permitted into containment laboratories certified and 
approved by the Government of Canada to appropriately handle the risks associated with the 
pathogen and/or the animal product or by -product associated with the animal pathogen. Animal 
pathogens in an animal product or by -product are subject to the same restrictions as indicated above  
imports may be restricted from countries not recognized by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency 
as free of serious animal diseases. Under certain circumstances imports m ay be permitted if treated 
or processed to eliminate the disease.  
 
If there is interest in importing a new commodity for which established import conditions do not 
exist, or from a country which has not been previously assessed by Canada, an Animal Health Risk 
Assessment (AHRA) may be conducted which is a science -based risk evaluation. If supported by the 
outcome of the AHRA, the commodity may be imported.  
 
4. The permit system is intended to ensure that all items identified in No. 1 are imported in 
conformity with Canada's sanitary health regulations to protect against the introduction of diseases 
into or spread within Canada. Decisions are made following a risk analysis and risk assessment 
process.  
 
The value of imports is not restricted by import p ermits. For single entry permits a finite quantity 
may be stipulated in the permit and this quantity may not be exceeded. For multi entry permits this 
is no restriction on the quantity that may be imported.  
 
5. The Health of Animals Act and Regulations thereunder. Importers of aquatic and terrestrial 
animals or their products or by -products are also required to comply with the requirements of all 
other applicable CFIA legislation, regulations, policies and directives, such as the Safe Food for 
Canadians Act  and Regulations , the Feeds Regulations , and the Fertilizers Act and Regulations . 
Goods, products and animals requiring permits are specified (see No. 1). There is no authority to 
waive regulations.  
 
Procedures  
6. There are no quotas under the Health of An imals Act. If all aspects of an application package are 
compliant and it is for a commodity that may be imported into Canada, the import permit is issued.  
 
7.(a)  In the case of live animals, animal semen, animal by -products, animal pathogens, aquatic 
animals and their products an import permit must be issued prior to the commodity arriving G/LIC/N/3/CAN/22  
 
- 43 - 
 
  in Canadian territory. The permit describes the conditions of importation pertaining to health 
certification, post -import conditions, treatments, etc. that must be satis fied. On arrival at the 
port of entry in Canada:  
 
(i) animals and their products may be subject to veterinary inspection, as applicable, and 
the accompanying permit and health certification (if required) are inspected to assure 
that import requirements are  met; 
(ii) product inspection may occur at designated receiving centres inland;  
(iii) some aquatic and terrestrial animals require post -import quarantine;  
(iv) some aquatic and terrestrial animals require post -import testing (in quarantine); and  
(v) orname ntal aquatic animals may be required to be imported to designated premises.  
 
In the case of veterinary biologics, production outlines and data to support purity, safety, 
potency and efficacy for each product must be submitted and approved prior to the issu ance 
of the permit. They are examined and reviewed to assure the product is safe, free from 
contaminants and that the label meets all requirements.  
 
In the case of animal pathogens, the importing laboratory must demonstrate compliance to 
the applicable Can adian biosafety standard prior to the issuance of the permit.  
 
(b) There is no lag time between the import permit being issued and when the shipment may 
enter Canada. However, an import permit may not be issued to a shipment that has already 
arrived in Canadian territory. Most straightforward import permits not requiring an in -depth 
analysis are issued within ten business days of submitting the application. More complex 
applications may take additional time.  
 
(c) No. 
 
(d) The National Centre for Permissi ons (NCP) (formerly the Centre of Administration of the 
Canadian Food Inspection Agency) delivers and coordinates the full range of operational 
administrative services required for import related permissions under this section 
(http://inspection.gc.ca/about -the-cfia/permits -licences -and-
approvals/eng/1395348112901/1395348237219 ). All permit applications are sent to the NCP, 
Regulatory Permissions and Registration Division, National Service Centres Direct orate of the 
Canadian Food Inspection Agency.  
 
Other regulatory bodies may also have applicable import requirements for the commodity. Examples 
include:  
 
• The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora 
(CITES) -listed species which require an additional permit from Environment Canada;  
• Other federal domestic requirements for introduction of aquatic animals into natural waters 
under Fisheries and Oceans Canada;  
• Requirements for products with medicinal claim s under the Veterinary Drugs Directorate of 
Health Canada.  
 
8. The CFIA can refuse to issue import permits on some occasions. Examples of these are:  
 
(a) When the disease status of a country does not meet minimum criteria, a permit will not be 
issued.  
(b) When a c ountry does not have a satisfactory disease diagnosis capability or disease control 
organization, a permit may not be issued.  
(c) Dependent on the departmental mandate for a particular commodity or risk factor/hazard, 
CFIA consults with either Health Canada, o r Public Health Agency of Canada, with regard to 
zoonoses or communicable diseases common to humans and animals or in the case of aquatic 
animals, Fisheries and Oceans Canada with respect to introduction into natural waters.  
(d) Commercial importers of veterin ary biologics must be approved by the foreign company 
manufacturing the products and also must have acceptable facilities and procedures to meet 
the CFIA's import conditions, such as maintaining the cold chain and reporting adverse 
events.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/22  
 
- 44 - 
 
  If an applicant wishes to have a decision to decline an import permit reviewed or appealed, they 
may do so according to the proto col on the CFIA website.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for permit to import  
9. Any resident of Canada or company registered in Canada who has the necessary qualifications 
and facilities to satisfy the import permit conditions may apply for an import permit. There are 
applicable fees for import permits. There is no published list of authorized importers. The CFIA does 
not make information regarding import permits publicly available.  
 
Documentational and other requirem ents for application for a permit to import  
10. Application must be made electronically or in writing using the appropriate application form, and 
must specify the species, quantities, date of arrival, country of origin and purposes of import. For 
aquatic a nimals, Part XVI of the Health of Animals Regulations requires specific species listed in 
Schedule III to have an import permit. All aquatic animals must meet the requirements of 
Section  194 which includes name and address of the importer and exporter, tax onomic name, 
quantity/number and the location where the animal was born. For rendered products and pet food, 
inspection questionnaires for the exporting premises must be completed by the competent authority 
of the exporting country and included with the ap plication.  
 
Import permits may be applied for through the National Centre for Permissions  (NCP) (formerly the 
Centre of Administration). Formalities for completing applications can be found at this site 
https://www.inspection.gc.ca/about -the-cfia/permits -licences -and-approvals/centre -of- 
administration -for-permissions/eng/1395348583779/1395348638922 . 
 
11. In addition to the permit to import animals, animal by -products, animal pathogens, aquatic 
animals and their products and the normal customs documentation, a zoosanitary certificate of 
health issued by the Competent Authority or Veterinary Services of the country of origin must 
accompany the shipment if required. Some exceptions exist for aquatic animals and their products.  
A customs document is also needed. For terrestrial animals, some form of animal identification is 
generally required. Please consult th e Automated Import Reference System for additional 
information on import requirements.  
 
12. Yes. See CFIA Fees notice at: https://inspection.canada.ca/about -cfia/acts -and-regulations/list -
of-acts-and-regulations/cfia -fees-notice/eng/1582641645528/1582641871296 . 
 
13. Yes, payments are requested at the time of submitting th e application.  
 
Conditions of permit  
14. Will often vary depending on the commodity and the purpose of the importation. It varies from 
single entry shipment to multiple shipments over a one -year period. A single -entry permit is 
generally valid for three mo nths. 
 
15. No. 
 
16. No. 
 
17. Some commodities may fall under the import requirements of the Health of Animals Act as well 
as the requirements of other legislation under the administration of the CFIA. They may also fall 
under the requirements of other gove rnment bodies. It is the importer's responsibility to comply 
with all applicable legislation.  
 
The conditions within an import permit are tailored to the specific commodity and are intended to 
prevent the introduction of animal diseases into Canada. Exampl es may include, the disease status 
of the country or origin, testing, quarantine, treatments etc.  
 
If an importer is not able to meet one of Canada's established import conditions they may apply to 
the Canadian Food Inspection Agency for a derogation. This requires that the importer provide a 
written request outlining the reason the import condition cannot be met and an equal alternative 
risk mitigation measure to be reviewed and considered by the CFIA.  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/22  
 
- 45 - 
 
  There is provision for the importation  of certain food products to a maximum amount for sample 
purposes only under approved conditions.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. Pre-import quarantine and testing may be required.  
 
For animal products and by -products, the conditions for import vary by the risk posed by the 
commodity, the processing, end use and origin. The importer may be required to obtain an import 
permit, and zoosanitary certification endorsed by the exporting country. To verify import conditions 
for terrestrial animal products and b y products, please check the Automated Import Reference  
System  (AIRS)  as well as published  import  policies  at 
http://www.inspection.gc.ca/animals/terrestrial -animals/imports/policies/animal -products -and-by- 
products/eng/1320833457085/1320851008731 . 
 
Once the importer receives the import permit, they are legally required to comply with the conditions 
within it in order to import the commodity.  
 
19. Not applicable.  
 
11  SAFE FOOD FOR CANADIANS ACT  
Outline of system  
1. The importation into Canada of foo d for human consumption is subject to licensing under the Safe 
Food for Canadians Act and Regulations , which are administered by the Canadian Food Inspection 
Agency. Under the Safe Food for Canadians Regulations , Canadian food businesses that conduct any 
of the following activities are required to obtain a license:  
• import food  
• manufacture, process, treat, preserve, grade, package, or label food to be exported or sent 
across provincial or territorial borders  
• export food that requires an export certificate – even if not preparing the food  
• slaughter food animals from which meat products are derived for export or to be sent across 
provincial or territorial borders  
• store and handle a meat product in its imported condition for inspection by the Canadian Food 
Inspe ction Agency.  
 
Import licensing under the Safe Food for Canadians Act and Regulations does not apply to:  
• food additives  
• alcoholic beverages (beverage that contains more than 0.5% absolute ethyl alcohol by 
volume)  
• unprocessed food listed in Schedule 1 of the SFCR if it:  
o will be manufactured, processed or treated for use as grain, oil, pulse, sugar or 
beverage;  
o has a label applied or attached to it, or accompanying it, that bears the expression 
"For Further Preparation Only" or "pour conditionnement ultérie ur seulement", and  
o is not a consumer prepackaged food.  
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Under the Safe Food for Canadians Regulations , any imported food must be manufactured, 
prepared, stored, packaged and labelled under conditions that provide the s ame level of protection 
as foods made in Canada. To learn more about the requirements for importing food please visit 
https://inspection.canada.ca/importing -food-plants -or-animals/food -imports/general - 
requirements/eng/1526656464895/1526656465161  
 
The provisions of the S FCA and SFCR do not apply to food in the following cases:  
• food for personal use, when the food is not intended for commercial use, and  
o the quantity of food is equal to or under the maximum quantity limits, found in the 
document "Maximum Quantity Limits for  Personal Use" ( http://inspection.gc.ca/about - 
the-cfia/acts -and-regulations/list -of-acts-and-regulations/documents -incorporated -G/LIC/N/3/CAN/22  
 
- 46 - 
 
  by- reference/personal -use-exemption/eng/1520439688578/1520439689098 ); and  
o the food is imported, exported, sent or conveyed from one province to another by an 
individual other than in the course of  business; or  
o the food is imported or exported as part of the personal effects of an immigrant or 
emigrant  
• food that is carried on any conveyance that is intended for the crew or passengers  
• food that is intended and used for analysis, evaluation, research, or a trade show provided 
that the food is part of a shipment that weighs 100kg or less or, in the case of eggs, is part 
of a shipment of five or fewer cases  
• food that is not intended or sold for human consumption  
• food that is imported  from the United States onto the Akwesasne Reserve by a permanent 
resident of the Reserve for their use food that is imported in bond (in transit) for use by crew 
or passengers of a cruise ship or military ship in Canada  
• food that is traded between federal  penitentiaries  
• transporting a food commodity, if that is the sole activity of a person.  
 
3. The licensing system applies to all importers, regardless of the food imported. A person importing 
food additives, beverages that contain more than 0.5% absolute e thyl alcohol by volume and foods 
used as a grain, oil, pulse, sugar or beverage (listed in Schedule 1 of the regulations) does not need 
a licence if those foods meet the requirements stipulated in section 11(2). Other non -quantitative 
restrictions exist fo r the import of certain species. For example, the importation of live freshwater 
mitten crab (genus Eriocheir ) or puffer fish (family Tetraodontidae ) is not permitted under the Safe 
Food for Canadians Regulations . 
 
4. The licensing system is not intended to restrict the quantity or value of imports. Licensing will 
help the CFIA to:  
• better identify food safety risks in order to target inspections  
• communicate important food safety information directly to food businesses  
• take enforcement actions, ran ging from requiring corrective measures to suspending or 
cancelling a licence, when regulatory requirements are not met.  
 
Importers must ensure they and the food they import meet all the applicable regulatory 
requirements.  
 
5. The licensing of importers is  legislated and regulated under the Safe Food for Canadians Act and 
Regulations . Licensing is statutorily required (see Safe Food for Canadians Regulations ). There is no 
administrative discretion with respect to the products subject to licensing. Legislati ve approval would 
be required in order to abolish elements of the import system described in the Safe Food for 
Canadians Regulations . 
 
Procedures  
6. There are no restrictions under the SFCR regarding the quantity or value of food imports.  
 
7.(a)  A person must apply for a Safe Food for Canadians (SFC) licence to import in advance of 
declaring their shipment to the Canada Border Services Agency and the CFIA. The CFIA may 
issue a licence immediately on application or the CFIA may conduct an assessment prior to 
issuing the licence to verify that the conditions specified in section 29 of the regulations are 
met. Goods arriving at a port of entry without an SFC licence will not be permitted entry into 
Canada.  
 
(b) See response to part (a).  
 
(c) There are n o limitations regarding the time of year during which an application can be made.  
 
(d) Any person, which includes an organization, who wishes to import food into Canada for sale 
or distribution for human consumption, must first obtain an import licence fro m the CFIA via 
the MyCFIA application.  
 
The application for a Safe Food for Canadians Licence is submitted solely through the My CFIA portal. 
The Centre of Administration of the CFIA delivers and coordinates the full range of operational 
administrative ser vices required for import related permissions; it is a "single - window" process.  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/22  
 
- 47 - 
 
  8. Under the Safe Food for Canadians Regulations (SFCR), there are certain conditions that must be 
met in order for a Safe Food for Canadians (SFC) licence to be issued. The l ist of conditions for 
issuance, renewal or amendment of an import licence is found in section 29. As part of these 
conditions, the CFIA cannot issue a licence to a person who is in default of payment of any fee 
related to the Safe Food for Canadians Act that is fixed under the Canadian Food Inspection Agency 
Act. Additionally, a licence cannot be issued where the CFIA is of the opinion that the issuance of a 
licence would present a risk of injury to human health.  
 
The CFIA may also decide not to issue a SFC  licence if, in the five years prior to the date of the 
licence application, the applicant (or any of their directors or operators) has had a licence suspended 
or cancelled or has been convicted of an offense under the Safe Food for Canadians Act or the Food 
and Drugs Act . 
 
The reasons for not issuing a licence are available from CFIA's Centre of Administration.  
 
In the event of a refusal, applicants can appeal the decision by submitting a complaint or appeal 
through CFIA's complaints and appeals process. M ore information, including the appeals process, is 
available on CFIA's Complaints and Appeals  webpage.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. Any person or company is eligible to apply for a Safe Food for Canadians Licence. To be issued a 
licence, importers must have a place of business in Canada or in a country that has been recognized 
by the CFIA in accordance with section 12 of the Safe Food for Canadians Regulations. To learn more 
about the limited conditions in which an import licence can be granted to an importer residing in a 
country other than Canada see the following: https://inspection.canada.ca/importing -food-plants - 
or-animals/food -imports/nri/eng/1539874432061/1539874432404 . 
 
Documentation and other requirements for application for licence  
10. To apply for an import licence, the applicant must first create an acco unt and business profile 
on the My CFIA portal. All information needed is listed on the Before you sign up for My CFIA  
webpage. Information required includes: business number, legal business name, proof of authority 
form, office address, mailing address and CFIA billing account number where they have one.  
After signing up for the My CFIA account, the applican t can consult the Webpage "What to consider 
before applying for a Safe Food for Canadians Licence": http://inspection.gc.ca/food/sfcr/general - 
food-requireme nts-and-guidance/licensing/obtain -a- 
licence/eng /1543359915240/1543360663242#step3 . Applicants will find all the information and the 
fees that they have to submit in order to get a licence.  
 
11. The import licence holder must provide information on each import shipment , including their 
Safe Food for Canadians licence number through the Single Window Integrated Import Declaration 
(SW IID). The information that must be provided is listed in section 13 of the Safe Food for Canadians 
Regulations. The information must be pro vided at the time of or prior to import.  
 
12. The fee for a Safe Food for Canadians Licence is CDN$260.61. Depending on the food commodity 
additional fees related to import may apply. See the CFIA's Fees Notice  for more information.  
 
13. The licensing fee of CDN$260.61 must be paid in order for a Safe Food for Canadians licence to 
be issued. There is no other deposit or advance payment required for the issuance of a licence.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. A Safe Food for Canadians Licence is valid for 2 years from the date of issuance. The period of 
validity of a licence can only be exten ded by renewing the licence prior to expiry. Licences are 
renewed through the My CFIA portal. Licence holders must update their licence information and pay 
the CDN$260.61 fee to renew their licence.  
 
15. There is no penalty for the non -utilization of a Saf e Food for Canadians licence.  
 
16. Licences are not transferable between persons or businesses.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/22  
 
- 48 - 
 
  17. Other conditions attached to the issue of a licence:  
(a) Not applicable.  
 
(b) All conditions attached to the issuance of a Safe Food for Canadians licence are specified under 
section 29 of the Safe Food for Canadians Regulations . Licence applicants must meet all 
applicable requirements of the SFCR, including, in most cases, putting in place preventive food 
safety controls and documenting these controls in a written Preventive Control Plan. Import 
licence holders must also maintain procedures and processes for handling and investigating 
complaints and recalls.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. Certain products might have additional requirements related to pla nt protection or animal health 
under other legislation. Apart from this and the procedures provided for in the Safe Food for 
Canadians Regulations , including requirements associated with inspections, record keeping and 
declaration of import shipments, no a dditional administrative procedures are required.  
 
19. Not applicable.  
 
12  WILD ANIMAL AND PLANT PROTECTION AND REGULATION OF INTERNATIONAL AND 
INTERPROVINCIAL TRADE ACT  
Outline of system  
 
1. The Wild Animal and Plant Trade Regulations (WAPTR) is established under the Wild Animal and 
Plant Protection and Regulation of International and Interprovincial Trade Act (WAPPRIITA). It serves 
for the implementation of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild 
Fauna and Flora (CITES ), to which Canada is a Party. WAPTR contains three Schedules; two of these 
Schedules (Schedule I and II) list species that are subject to licensing requirements. Schedule I lists 
species that are listed in one of the three Appendices to the CITES. Schedul e II of WAPTR lists 
species which may be harmful to Canadian ecosystems if ever released into the wild. Schedule III 
of WAPTR lists species which are recognized as endangered or threatened in Canada. The trade 
controls under WAPTR apply to live specimens a s well as parts and derivative products.  
 
Information on how to comply with the requirements of these controls is published in the Canada 
Gazette, on the Canada.ca website, in press releases and in Notices to Importers distributed to 
associations and trade rs and, in addition, available upon request from the Department of the 
Environment.  
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
 
2. The purpose of this coverage is:  
 
(a) to place a strict control on trade in specimens of species classified as endangered or harmful  
to Canadian ecosystems;  
(b) to establish a system of trade controls to monitor trade of species that are endangered or 
species that are susceptible to becoming endangered as a result of international trade; and  
(c) to allow individual countries to exercis e surveillance on importation in other countries 
specimens of species which are considered endangered by the exporting country only.  
 
3. The system applies to specimens of endangered species (listed in one of the three Appendices of 
CITES, which are mirror ed in Schedule I of WAPTR), or species harmful to Canadian ecosystems 
(listed in Schedule II of WAPTR), originating in and exported from all countries.  
 
4. The purpose of the licensing system is to control importation of: i) specimens of species, listed in  
one of the three Appendices of CITES, under internationally agreed circumstances and; ii) species 
listed in Schedule II of WAPTR, in the case where there are sufficient safeguards and security to 
prevent harm to Canadian ecosystems.  
 
5. Licensing is effec ted by the WAPTR made under the WAPPRIITA. Individual products are not 
designated in the Act. Species are placed in Schedule I of the WAPTR, established by the Governor - 
in-Council to implement an intergovernmental arrangement or commitment (see No. 1 abov e). In G/LIC/N/3/CAN/22  
 
- 49 - 
 
  addition, species which may be harmful to Canadian ecosystems if ever released into the wild, are 
listed in Schedule II of WAPTR and are also subject to licensing requirements.  
 
Procedures  
 
6. Not applicable.  
 
7.(a)  When importing a specimen of a s pecies listed in either Appendix II or Appendix III of CITES, 
no Canadian import permit is required; the permit or certificate issued by the exporting 
country is sufficient to allow import into Canada. However, when importing a specimen of a 
species listed  in Appendix I of CITES as indicated in Schedule I of the WAPTR, an application 
for a Canadian import permit should be made at least 35 days prior to the expected date of 
arrival. Individual import permits for species listed in Schedule II of WAPTR can be applied for 
at least 70 days prior to the expected date of arrival. Permits are not issued retrospectively.  
 
(b) An individual import permit for species listed in Appendix I of CITES, as indicated in Schedule 
I of the WAPTR , is normally granted within 35 d ays from receipt provided the criteria for 
issuing a permit are met. Import permits can be obtained within a shorter time limit in special 
circumstances, for instance where live animals are involved. An individual import permit for 
species listed in Schedu le II of WAPTR is normally granted within 70 days from receipt 
provided the criteria for issuing a permit are met. Import permits for species listed in Schedule 
II of WAPTR can likewise be obtained within a shorter time limit in special circumstances, for 
instance where live animals are involved.  
 
(c) Not applicable.  
 
(d) Permit applications are processed by the CITES Authorities of the Department of Environment 
and Climate Change.  
 
8. If the criteria have not been met, the applicant will be informed. In such event, the applicant may 
request reconsideration by providing new information.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
 
9. Citizenship and residency are not criteria.  
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for lice nce 
 
10. The importer is required to provide all the information requested by the Act and regulations 
depending on the type of animal or plant specimen intended for import. There are many application 
forms specific to the type of animal or plant specimen a nd trade activity.  
 
CITES documents issued by the appropriate CITES authorities in the country of origin or in any 
subsequent re -exporting country, must accompany applications for CITES import permits.  
 
11. Same documents as in the response to Question 10.  Specimens of CITES listed species arriving 
in Canada without a duly authentic CITES export permit will not be cleared by Canada Customs and 
are subject to seizure. Specimens of species listed in Schedule II of WAPTR must be accompanied 
by a Canadian permi t issued under subsection 10(1) of WAPPRIITA. Specimens of species listed on 
Appendix I of CITES (as mirrored in Schedule I of the WAPTR) must be accompanied by a Canadian 
CITES import permit. Customs entry forms are also required.  
 
12. No fees.  
 
13. Not a pplicable.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
 
14. Import permits required under WAPTR are valid for one year from the date of issue. In cases of 
permit expiration before use, the applicant can apply for a replacement permit upon return of the 
expired permit.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/22  
 
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  15. No. 
 
16. No. 
 
17. No. 
 
Other procedural requirements  
 
18. Applicants for import permits have to meet any provincial/territorial/federal administrative 
procedures with regards to the specimen such as provisions for possession or transport within 
Canada.  
 
19. Not applicable.  
 
13  EXPORT AND IMPORT OF ROUGH DIAMONDS ACT  
Outline of system  
 
1. The Export and Import of Rough Diamonds Act (S.C., 2002, c.25) received Royal Assent on 
12 December 2002 and came into force on 1 January 2003. The Act provides fo r controls on the 
export, import or transit across Canada of rough diamonds and for a certification scheme for the 
export of rough diamonds in order to meet Canada's obligations under the Kimberley Process. Under 
this system, every person who exports rough  diamonds must ensure that the diamonds are in a 
container that meets the requirements of the Export and Import of Rough Diamonds Regulations 
(SOR/2003 -15) and are accompanied by a Canadian Certificate. On receiving an application for a 
Canadian Certificat e from a resident of Canada for the export of rough diamonds, the Minister of 
Natural Resources must issue a Canadian certificate if the application meets the requirements of the 
Regulations. Before issuing a Canadian Certificate, the Minister must be sati sfied that the export is 
to a participant, the information contained in the application is accurate, and the rough diamonds in 
respect of which the application is made originated in Canada, were extracted from mineral 
concentrates in Canada, were imported from a participant or were in Canada prior to 1  January  2003.  
 
Every person who imports rough diamonds must ensure that the diamonds are in a container that 
meets the requirements of the Regulations and are accompanied by a valid Kimberley Process 
Certific ate that was issued by a participant, has not been invalidated by the participant and that 
contains accurate information. For the purpose of this Act, in -transit rough diamonds are deemed 
not to be imported or exported.  
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
 
2. The purpose of this Act is to provide for controls on the export, import or transit across Canada 
of rough diamonds in order to meet Canada's obligations under the Kimberley Process. The 
Kimberley Process is an international understanding among partici pants that was recognized by 
Resolution No. 55/56 adopted by the General Assembly of the United Nations on 1 December 2000. 
The Kimberley Process establishes minimum requirements for an international scheme of 
certification for rough diamonds with a view t o breaking the link between armed conflict and the 
trade in rough diamonds. A rough diamond is defined as a diamond that is unsorted, unworked or 
simply sawn, cleaved or bruted, and that falls under subheading 7102.10, 7102.21 or 7102.31 in 
the List of Tar iff Provisions set out in the schedule to the Customs Tariff, but does not include 
diamonds that are of a class prescribed by regulation.  
 
3. The system applies to rough diamonds originating in and coming from a participant. A participant 
is defined as a S tate, international organization of States or dependent territory of a State, or a 
customs territory, named in the Schedule to the Act.  
 
4. The licensing is intended to impose controls on rough diamonds to regulate their import, export 
and transit across C anada in order to meet Canada's obligations under the Kimberley Process. The 
Kimberley Process establishes minimum requirements for an international certification scheme for 
rough diamonds with a view of breaking the link between the illicit transaction of  rough diamonds 
and armed conflict as a contribution to prevention and settlement of conflicts.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/22  
 
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  5. The licensing of exports is a requirement under section 8 of the Act, which establishes that a 
Canadian Kimberley Process Certificate is required for export ing rough diamonds from Canada. 
Section 12 provides that if the Minister of Natural Resources determines that information provided 
by an applicant in order to obtain a Canadian Certificate, or information appearing on the certificate, 
is inaccurate or has changed, the Minister may invalidate the certificate.  
 
Section 14 of the Act requires that imports of rough diamonds be accompanied by a Kimberley 
Process Certificate issued by a participant, that has not been invalidated, and that contains accurate 
inform ation. Subsection 15(1) provides that if imported rough diamonds arrive in Canada 
accompanied by a Kimberley Process Certificate that meets the requirements of section 14 of the 
Act, but are in a container that has been opened, the Minister may order the p erson who imported 
the rough diamonds to return them to the participant who issued the certificate.  
 
Pursuant to paragraph 35(a), the Minister of Natural Resources may make regulations to prescribe 
the classes of diamonds to be excluded from the definition of "rough diamond".  
 
Legislative approval would be required to abolish this system.  
 
Procedures  
 
6. Not applicable. Quantity and value restrictions, beyond the minimum requirements for Certificates 
in Annex I of the Kimberley Process Certificati on Scheme Document, do not apply to imports of 
rough diamonds.  
 
7. The Kimberley Process Certification Scheme is implemented through the national legislation of 
the respective participants. The participants' exporting authority is responsible for issuance of 
licences for export. Although participants' licensing systems conform to the Kimberley Process 
minimum requirements, the terms vary from participant to participant in respect to application 
requirements and time frame for issuance of licences.  
 
It takes typically a business day to issue a Canadian licence for exports of rough diamonds from 
Canada. For clients with remote printing capability, it may take as little as a couple of hours from 
the submission of an application to issue a Canadian Certific ate for exports. The Canadian licences 
for exports are issued by the Kimberley Process Office in the Department of Natural Resources based 
in Ottawa. There are no further approvals required from other administrative entities for the issuance 
of export lice nces. 
 
8. If an application for a Canadian licence for exports does not meet the criteria in subsection 9(2) 
of the Act, paragraph 9(1)(c) provides that the Minister must reject the application and the applicant 
is provided with the reasons for rejection i n writing. Section 10 provides that if the applicant does 
not remedy the deficiency, within such time as the Minister considers reasonable, the Minister may 
reject the application.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
 
9. Import licences are issu ed by foreign authorities of the respective participants. Export licences 
are issued by the Kimberley Process Office in the Department of Natural Resources under the 
authority of the Export and Import of Rough Diamonds Act . Only Canadian residents may appl y for 
a licence to export rough diamonds from Canada. Although the system does not currently require 
registration of persons or firms, the Minister may make regulations respecting the manner of 
submitting an application, specifying the information that mus t be included in it and the documents 
that must accompany the application  
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
 
10. An application for a Canadian licence for export of rough diamonds under section 9 of the Act 
must include th e following information as set out in section 2 of the Regulations:  
 
(a) The applicant's name and address in Canada and, if the applicant is a corporation, the name 
of the individual submitting the application on its behalf;  
(b) If the applicant is not the  exporter of the rough diamonds, the name and address of the 
exporter;  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/22  
 
- 52 - 
 
  (c) The name and address of the person to whom the exporter is exporting the rough diamonds;  
(d) The name of the participant to which the rough diamonds are to be shipped;  
(e) The origin of the rough diamonds including:  
(i) If they were mined in Canada, the place and name of the mine;  
(ii) If they were recovered during exploration in Canada, the longitude and latitude of the 
exploration site, and the place and name of the facility i n which they were extracted;  
(iii) if they were extracted in Canada from mineral concentrates that originated outside 
Canada, the place and name of the facility in which they were extracted;  
(iv) if they were present in Canada at the coming into force of s ection 8 of the Act, 
documentary evidence establishing their presence in Canada at that time; and  
(v) if they were imported into Canada after the coming into force of section 8 of the Act, 
the serial number of each Kimberley Process Certificate that accomp anied the rough 
diamonds;  
(f) The mass, measured in carats, of the rough diamonds in the shipment;  
(g) The value, in United States dollars, of the rough diamonds in the shipment;  
(h) The subheading in the List of Tariff Provisions in the schedule to the Cu stoms Tariff under 
which the rough diamonds are classified;  
(i) The number of containers in the shipment and a seal number for each container; and  
(j) A declaration signed and dated by the applicant stating that the information contained in the 
application  is accurate.  
 
Section 3 of the Regulations provides that an application for the replacement of a Canadian licence 
for the export of rough diamonds under section 11 of the Act must meet the following criteria:  
 
(a) Be made before the export of the rough di amonds;  
(b) Contain all the information required under section 2 of the Regulations including any 
information appearing on the Canadian licence that is inaccurate of has changed; and  
(c) Be accompanied by the Canadian licence in respect of which the applic ation is made.  
 
Under section 4 of the Regulations, an application to the Minister under section 9 or 11 of the Act 
must be delivered by hand or sent by mail or courier or by facsimile or other electronic means  
 
11. Pursuant to subsection 14(1) of the Act,  a Kimberley Process Certificate issued by a participant 
is required to accompany import shipments of rough diamonds into Canada.  
 
12. There are currently no licensing fees or administrative fees charged to applicants for the issuance 
of licences for expor t of rough diamonds from Canada. However, section 34 of the Act provides that 
the Governor in Council may make regulations to prescribe the fees payable for the issuance or 
replacement of a Canadian licence.  
 
13. There is no deposit or advance payment requirement associated with the issuance of export 
licences.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
 
14. Section 6 of the Regulations provides that a Canadian Certificate is valid until 24:00 Greenwich 
mean time of the day that is 60 days after the date of issue . The validity of a licence cannot be 
extended. However, the period of validity may be changed by regulation by the Minister of Natural 
Resources pursuant to subsection 35 (b) of the Act.  
 
15. There is no penalty for the non -utilization of a licence.  
 
16. Licences are not transferable.  
 
17.(a)Not applicable.  
 
(b)  The Minister of Natural Resources may make regulations specifying the content of Canadian 
licences. Additionally, pursuant to section 7 of the Regulations, every exporter of rough 
diamonds must report the export to attest to the accuracy of the information contained in the 
Canadian licence by signing the report and sending it to the Minister within seven days of 
Export.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/22  
 
- 53 - 
 
  Other procedural requirements  
 
18. Apart from procedures provided for i n the Act and the Regulations, including requirements 
associated with inspections, record keeping and export and import reporting, no additional 
administrative procedures are required.  
 
19. Not applicable.  
 
14  FISHERIES ACT  
Outline of system  
 
1. The Fisherie s Act governs the importation of cetaceans in captivity and reproductive materials of 
cetaceans, as well as shark fins or parts of shark fins that are not attached to a shark carcass for 
scientific research purposes.  
 
Section 23.2 of the Fisheries Act  establishes a legislative framework that prohibits attempted or 
actual import into Canada and export from Canada, any living cetacean or sperm, an egg or an 
embryo  of a cetacean, except in accordance with a permit to conduct these activities issued by the 
Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard and solely if it is for the purpose of (a) 
conducting scientific research; or (b) keeping the cetacean in captivity if it is in the best interests of 
the cetacean 's welfare to do so.  
 
Subsection 32.1(1) of the Fisheries Act establishes a legislative framework that prohibits attempted 
or actual import into Canada and export from Canada, any shark fins or parts of shark fins that are 
not attached to a shark carcass, except in accordance w ith a permit to conduct these activities. Only 
the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard can issue these permits for scientific 
research purposes related to shark conservation and the survival of shark species.  
 
Purposes and coverage o f licensing  
 
2. Section 23.2 of the Fisheries Act  provides for permits for the importation of living cetaceans.  
 
Subsection 32.1(2) of the Fisheries Act has a provision for import permit licensing for shark fins and 
parts of shark fins that are not attach ed to a shark carcass to be used for research purposes; 
products under tariff item numbers 0302.92.00 (fresh or chilled shark fin), 0303.92.00 (frozen shark 
fin), 0305.71.00 (Dried, salted or smoked shark fins) and 1604.18.00 (Prepared or preserved shark 
fins) are covered under this licensing system.  
 
3. The licensing systems apply to goods originating in and imported from all countries.  
 
4. The purpose of the cetacean permitting system is to permit the import of living cetaceans or 
sperm, an egg or an embr yo of a cetacean, only if it is for the purpose of (a) conducting scientific 
research; or (b) keeping the cetacean in captivity if it is in the best interests of the cetacean 's welfare 
to do so.  
 
The purpose of the shark fin  permitting system is to permit the import of fins not attached to a shark 
carcass for scientific research purposes.  
 
5. See paragraph 1 and 2.  
 
Procedures  
 
6. Not applicable.  
 
7.(a)  In the case of import permits for cetaceans, the service standard for th e issuance of an import 
permit is 50 business days. Therefore, an application must be received no less than 50 days 
prior to a planned importation. Once issued, the permit remains valid for a six -month period.  
 
In the case of import permits for shark fins , the service standard for issuing a licence is 35 
calendar days so the applicant must apply accordingly.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/22  
 
- 54 - 
 
  There is no expedited process to obtain a licence for importation of either cetaceans or shark 
fins. If the item is imported without a licence, the a pplicant risks enforcement action.  
 
(b) No. 
 
(c) Time of year has no effect on the issuance of licences or when importation or exportation can 
occur.  
 
(d) Licence applications are solely issued by the Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada 
(DFO) and no other department is involved in the licence issuance.  
 
8. The Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard retains discretion in issuing 
permits under s. 23.2 (2) and s. 32.1(2) of the Fisheries Act, and they can make exceptions to these 
principles. The Minister may also impose any conditions that he or she considers appropriate in a 
permit issued under s. 23.2 (2) or s. 32.1(2) of the Fisheries Act , and retains the power to amend, 
suspend or cancel a permit that has been issued.  
 
Reasons f or refusal would be provided to the applicant. DFO would be in contact with the applicant 
to discuss eligibility, missing information and any other possible issues after permit was applied for 
and in the review stage and advise the applicant on how to corr ect the issue(s). If after review, DFO 
officials recommend the permit not be issued, then officials would advise the applicant of the 
reasoning behind the refusal.  
 
The final authority for issuing or denying these permits rests with the Minister. Nonethele ss, the 
applicant can still contact the Minister's office to attempt to have a decision reconsidered. Further, 
any Ministerial decision may be subject to judicial review by federal courts.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
 
9. In the case of i mport permits for cetaceans,  all persons, firms and institutions are eligible to apply 
for an import permit, however only those that are able to meet the criteria will be successful. It is 
anticipated that obtaining a permit to import live cetaceans would be of most interest to firms or 
organizations that are recognized and accredited facilities, such as aquariums or zoos. It is 
anticipated that obtaining a permit to import reproductive material from cetaceans for scientific 
research purposes would be of mo st interest to research facilities such as those affiliated with 
universities or government departments.  
 
In the case of import permits for shark fins, persons, firms and institutions associated with a 
research institution or recognized international orga nization that has played an active role in shark 
conservation are eligible to apply for licences. The eligibility of the applicant would be determined 
from the supporting documentation received.  
 
There is no registration fee to apply for a permit, and ther e is no published list of authorized 
importers.  
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
 
10. 
 
Cetaceans:  
 
Should the applicant wish to obtain a permit authorizing the import of a living cetacean to conduct 
scientific research on a cetacean , they must provide:  
 
1. Details (i.e., specific hypothesis, objectives, methods and protocols, publication intention and, 
based on the proposed research, potential additional information to be indicated by DFO) for 
each scientific study that is being planned relevant to the transfer request;  
a. The Animal Care and Use Protocols associated with the proposed scientific studies must 
be consistent with or exceed relevant ethical, transportation, care and scientific 
guidelines published by the Canadian Council of Animal Care (CCAC).  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/22  
 
- 55 - 
 
  2. A list of scientific publications that demonstrate that the researchers involved in the proposed  
research activities have published work that is relevant to the broader marine mammal science 
community;  
3. If a wild cetacean is to be transferred from a rescue center to a permanent facility, the 
applicant must submit an assessment explaining why the ce tacean cannot be released into 
the wild, which must be consistent with the most up to date DFO scientific advice (e.g. DFO. 
2018. Advice on Criteria for the Release of Rehabilitated Marine Mammals. 11pp. SAR 
2018/026).  
4. The broad research program, priori ties and methodologies at the destination facility must 
show potential for increase of knowledge that is considered important by DFO (i.e. a priority) 
to support conservation efforts of wild stocks of cetaceans found in Canadian fisheries waters;  
 
Should t he applicant wish to obtain an import permit of a living cetacean for reasons related to the 
cetacean 's welfare , they must abide by the following conditions:  
 
Permits to import a living cetacean for welfare purposes will be issued only in exceptional 
circumstances, where it is demonstrated that it is the best option available for the cetacean 's welfare.  
 
1. The applicant must submit a written justification explaining why importing the cetacean into 
the proposed Canadian facility is in the best interests of the cetacean 's welfare.  
a. This justification must include information on the other options that have been 
considered and why they should not be preferred;  
b. As relevant, the applicant must provide a comparative review of the current foreign 
facility and proposed Canadian facility with regard to the standards of care, public 
display or use of the cetacean, and quality of life of the cetacean (which includes a 
description of the environmental and social conditions provided to the captive 
cetacean);  
2. The a pplicant must submit a document describing the mitigation strategies that will be used 
to minimize risks related to the transportation and the integration of the cetacean into its new 
environment (these risks include the removal from tanks, transport by tr uck(s) and plane(s), 
introduction to the new captive environment and the potential impacts on the other captive 
cetaceans); and,  
3. The standards of care at the Canadian destination facility must be consistent with or exceed 
the "CCAC guidelines on: the ca re and use of marine mammals ". 
 
Should an applicant wish to obtain a Ministerial permit authorizing the import of viable sperm, an 
egg, or an embryo of a cetacean to conduct scientific research, they must abide by the following 
conditions:  
 
1. The applican t must provide details (i.e., specific hypothesis, objectives, methods and 
protocols, publication intention and, based on the proposed research, potential additional 
information to be indicated by DFO) for each scientific study that is being planned releva nt to 
the import request.  
a. Except under exceptional circumstances, the broad research program, priorities and 
methodologies should not involve impregnating a cetacean and/or attempts at 
artificially developing a fetus of a cetacean, and must show potenti al for increase of 
knowledge that could be useful to the conservation of wild stocks of cetaceans in their 
natural habitat inside or outside Canadian fisheries waters;  
b. If exceptional circumstances are invoked for impregnating a cetacean and/or trying to  
artificially develop a fetus of a cetacean, the broad research program, priorities and 
methodologies must show potential for increase of knowledge that is considered 
important by DFO (i.e. a priority) to support conservation efforts of wild stocks of 
cetaceans found in Canadian fisheries waters.  
i. In case of impregnation of a cetacean in captivity, the Animal Care and Use 
Protocols associated with the proposed scientific studies must be consistent with 
or exceed relevant ethical, transportation, care and  scientific guidelines published 
by the Canadian Council of Animal Care (CCAC);  
2. The applicant must submit a document explaining how the reproductive materials relevant to 
the import request will be securely kept and/or disposed of to ensure that it will not be used 
for purposes other than the described scientific research; and,  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/22  
 
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  3. The applicant must submit a list of scientific publications that demonstrate that the 
researchers involved in the proposed research activities have published work that is r elevant 
to the broader marine mammal science community.  
 
The latest information on applying for a permit can be found on Department of Fisheries and Oceans 
website at: https://www.dfo -mpo.gc.ca/about -notre -sujet/publications/policy -politiques/cetaceans -
cetaces/overview -apercu -eng.html  
 
Shark fins:  
 
The applicant must provide details regarding  the objectives and protocols related to their research 
for each planned scientific study that is relevant to the permit being requested. Information on shark 
fins and/or parts of shark fins (i.e., product description, quantity, weight, etc.) is required w ith the 
application, including a rationale for the number of shark fins requested for import and/or export.  
 
The applicant must submit relevant scientific publications that demonstrate that the researchers 
involved in the proposed research activities have published work that is relevant to shark 
conservation.  
 
The applicant must submit proof of association with a research institution or recognized international 
organization that has played an active role in shark conservation during recent years and has 
developed widely used tools and/or approaches to support shark conservation initiatives; The 
applicant must describe how the proposed research activities are likely to benefit the survival of 
shark species or are required to enhance the chances of survival of  shark species in the wild; The 
applicant must explain why the proposed research activities cannot be conducted in the country 
where the shark fins or parts of shark fins are currently located, and why importing or exporting the 
shark fins is essential to support the proposed research activities.  
 
The justification must include information on other options that have been considered (i.e., working 
with a research institution in the country where the shark fins are currently located; using pictures 
of the sha rk fins if the objective of the research is to identify species) and why they should not be 
preferred.  
 
The applicant must provide qualifications for any collaborators or research assistants involved (if 
applicable) and indicate whether or not they will be  working independently from the applicant with 
the shark fins or parts of shark fins.  
 
The applicant must submit a document explaining how the shark fins or parts of shark fins will be 
securely kept and/or disposed of to ensure that they will not be used f or purposes other than the 
described scientific research; and if the applicant previously received a Fisheries Act authorization 
to import or export shark fins or parts of shark fins, the applicant must provide details that 
demonstrate proof of incremental  progress to advance research on shark conservation or to benefit 
the survival of shark species in the wild (i.e., proof of publication, research results, statistics).  
 
The latest information on applying for a license can be found on Department of Fisherie s and Oceans 
website at: https://www.dfo -mpo.gc.ca/about -notre -sujet/publications/policy -politiques/shark - 
requin/permits -research -permis -recherche -eng.html . 
 
11. Depending on the circumstance, documentation previously outlined is required. Further, 
importers are required under the Customs Act, that information reported to the Canada Border 
Services Agency (CBSA) must be true, accurate and complete . This means that the scientific or 
taxonomic names of all cetaceans, viable sperm, eggs or embryos of a cetacean, or sharks or shark 
products imported must be declared upon entry.  
 
Importers must report scientific names of all imported species in the com modity description field of 
Form CI1, Canada Customs Invoice or the commercial invoice, either electronic or paper as per the 
instructions in Memorandum D1 -4-1, CBSA Invoice Requirements, and/or in accordance with the 
technical requirements, specifications  and procedures for electronic data interchange as set out in 
the Electronic Commerce Client Requirements Document (ECCRD). The latest import process for 
shark fins is described in Canada Border Services Agency's Customs Notice 21 -02 at: 
https://www.cbsa -asfc.gc.ca/publications/cn -ad/cn21 -02-eng.html . Additional information on 
import requirements can be foun d at: https://www.cbsa -asfc.gc.ca/import/menu -eng.html . G/LIC/N/3/CAN/22  
 
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  In the case of cetacean import permits, importers are required to obtain a Convention on 
Internationa l Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) permit for the import of 
all cetacean specimen including viable sperm, eggs or embryos of a cetacean if listed on Appendix I 
of the Convention. In the case of shark fin import permits, importers  may be required to obtain a 
Convention on the International Trade of Endangered Species (CITES) permit for the import or 
export of shark fins if the species is covered by the Convention.  
 
A CITES import permit is issued by Environment and Climate Change C anada (ECCC), who issue 
import permits for all species. Applicants may also be required to obtain a Species at Risk Act  (SARA) 
permit and adhere to any SARA provisions for cetacean or shark species listed in Canada as 
extirpated, endangered or threatened. SARA permits for aquatic species are issued by DFO.  
 
12. There is no licensing fee or administrative charge for import permits, research licenses or SARA 
permits associated with importation of cetaceans or shark fins.  
 
13. No. 
 
Conditions of licensing  
 
14. A permit is valid for six months from date of issue. A permit cannot be extended. A new permit 
would need to be applied for if a permit expired before importation occurred.  
 
15. There is no penalty for the non -utilization of a permit. The pe rmit would simply expire. Permits 
can only be used once, so if an applicant used a portion of the permit (fewer items imported than 
listed on permit) the permit could not be reused for remaining items.  
 
16. Permits are issued to one specific importer and a re not transferable between importers.  
 
17. In the case of cetacean import permits, the Minister may also impose any conditions that he or 
she considers appropriate in a permit issued under s. 23.2 (2) of the Fisheries Act , and under 
s. 23.2(3) retains the  power to amend, suspend or cancel a permit that has been issued. In the case 
of shark fin import permits, no other conditions attached to the issuance of a license whether (a) for 
products subject to quantitative restriction or (b) for products not subjec t to quantitative restriction. 
If not covered by the permit issued in accordance with Section 32.1(2) of the Fisheries Act , all other 
related products would be covered by Canada's quantitative restrictions related to shark fins.  
 
Other procedural requireme nts 
 
18. No. 
 
19. N/A. 
 
__________