WORLD TRADE  
ORGANIZATION   
G/LIC/N/3/CAN/11 
2 November 2012  
 
(12-6033) 
Committee on Import Licensing Original:   English 
  
 
REPLIES TO QUESTIONNAIRE ON IMPORT LICENSING PROCEDURES
1 
 
Notification under Article 7.3 of the Agreement on Import Licensing Procedures 
 
CANADA 
 
  The following communication, dated 29 October 2012, is being circulated at the request of the delegation of Canada.  
_______________ 
 
 Introduction  
  Import licences are required for goods subject to  restrictions related to measures taken to 
safeguard domestic producers against injurious im ports pursuant to either GATT Article XIX or 
international commitments (e.g. narcotics and enda ngered species of fauna and flora). Import controls 
are also imposed on some products on grounds of pub lic interest, or for monitoring purposes.  This is 
accomplished either through import licensing measures or through certain other formalities at the port 
of entry.  Effective 1 January 1995 (1 August 1995 for wheat, wheat products, barley, barley products, 
butter, dry whey and cream), Canada converted its agricultural import controls to a system of tariff 
rate quotas (TRQs); import licences are required as a condition of importation of quantities eligible for the in-quota rate of duty.   Import controls are administered by a limited number of government departments.  It is not 
practical, however, to provide a general description of  the procedures involved as they vary, in certain 
particulars, from department to department.  C onsequently, replies to the Questionnaire have been 
organized according to the different legisla tive instruments under which import controls are 
maintained.  In the case of the Export and Import Pe rmits Act, general responses in respect of dairy 
products; chicken, turkey and eggs;  broiler hatching eggs and chicks ;  beef and veal;  margarine;  
wheat and barley and their products; and pork have b een provided for questions 5, 8-10, 12-19 of the 
Questionnaire. Replies to the remaining questions ha ve been organized by the different legislative 
instruments owing to the different procedures involved.  
                                                      
1 See G/LIC/3, Annex, for the Questionnaire. G/LIC/N/3/CAN/11 
Page 2  
 
   
Table of contents 
 
I.  CONTROLLED DRUGS AND SUBSTANCES ACT ........................................................... 3  
II.  FOOD AND DRUGS ACT ....................................................................................................... 7  
III. EXPLOSIVES ACT ................................................................................................................ .. 7 
IV.  NUCLEAR SAFETY AND CONTROL ACT ........................................................................ 9  
V.  NATIONAL ENERGY BOARD ACT .................................................................................... 9  
A.  NATURAL GAS ............................................................................................................................ 9  
VI.  EXPORT AND IMPORT PERMITS ACT .......................................................................... 12  
A.  GENERAL RESPONSES APPLICABLE TO DAIRY PRODUCTS ; CHICKEN , TURKEY AND 
EGGS ; BROILER HATCHING EGGS AND CHICKS ; BEEF AND VEAL ; MARGARINE ; AND 
WHEAT AND BARLEY  ................................................................................................................. 12  
B.  OTHER RESPONSES – BY PRODUCT GROUPS  ............................................................................... 15  
1.  Carbon and Specialty Steel ....................................................................................................  15 
VII. ANIMALS AND PLANTS ..................................................................................................... 16  
A.  PLANT PROTECTION ACT  ........................................................................................................... 16  
B.  HEALTH OF ANIMALS ACT  ......................................................................................................... 19  
C.  FISH INSPECTION ACT  ................................................................................................................ 21  
D.  CANADA AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS ACT ................................................................................ 24  
1.  Dairy Product Regulations (as reflected in G/LIC/N/3/CAN/8/Add.1, dated 
19 April 2010) ................................................................................................................ .......... 24 
2.  The Licensing and Arbitration Regu lations (L&A Regulations) ....................................... 27  
E.  ENDANGERED  SPECIES ....................................................................................................... 30  
VIII. EXPORT AND IMPORT OF ROUGH DIAMONDS ACT ................................................ 31  
  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/11 
 Page 3 
 
 
  I. CONTROLLED DRUGS AND SUBSTANCES ACT 
Outline of system 
 
1. The importation of controlled substances, industrial hemp and precursor chemicals is 
governed by the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act  (CDSA), which was enacted in 1996 and came 
into force in 1997.  The CDSA is the means by which Canada fulfils its obligations under the UN 
Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs, 1961, the UN Convention on Psychotropic Substances, 1971, 
and the UN Convention against Illicit Traffic in Na rcotics Drugs and Psychotropic Substances, 1988. 
  The CDSA establishes a legislative framework  that essentially prohibits all activities, e.g., 
importation, exportation, production, distribution, et c., with controlled substances, industrial hemp 
and precursor chemicals, unless authorized by re gulation.  The regulations made under the CDSA 
therefore set out the circumstances under which activities with controlled substances, precursor 
chemicals and industrial hemp are permitted.  
 The substances regulated under the CDSA are gr ouped into six Schedules (Schedules I to VI) 
to the Act.  Schedules I to V list controlled substances (including benzodiazepines and other 
psychotropic substances, narcotics, hemp, stimul ants, sedatives, and anabolic steroids) while 
Schedule VI lists precursor chemicals.    The following regulations outline provisions pertaining to the legal import of controlled 
substances, precursor chemicals and industrial hemp: 
 "Controlled Substances" 
 - Benzodiazepines and Other Targeted Substances Regulations : Sets out the circumstances and 
requirements in which producers, distributors,  importers, exporters, pha rmacists, practitioners 
and hospitals may conduct regulated activ ities including possession, sale, distribution, 
importing and exporting, and production of s ubstances listed in the Schedules to the 
Regulations. These Regulations also apply to "t argeted substances" which are defined as other 
psychotropic substances requiring a si milar level of re gulatory control. 
- Narcotic Control Regulations :  Sets out the circumstances and requirements in which 
producers, distributors, importers, exporters,  pharmacists, practitione rs and hospitals may 
conduct regulated activities including possession, sa le, distribution, importing and exporting, 
and production of substances lis ted in the Schedule to these Regulations referred to as 
"narcotics".  Examples of narcotics included in this group are cocaine, opium, codeine, 
morphine and cannabis (marihuana). 
- Part G of the Food and Drug Regulations [" controlled drugs"]: Governs the activities of 
producers, distributors, importers, exporters , pharmacists, practitioners, and hospitals 
including possession, sale, distribution, importi ng, exporting, and prod uction of substances 
listed in the Schedule to these Regulations a nd referred to as "controlled drugs" 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, pr actitioners and research institutions including 
possession, sale, distribution, importing, exporting,  and production of s ubstances listed in the 
Schedule to these Regulations and referred to as "restricted drugs" such as MDMA, LSD, and 
psilocybin. 
 
"Industrial Hemp" 
 
- Industrial Hemp Regulations : Sets out the circumstances and requirements for the 
importation, exportation and possession, as well as the production, sale, provision, transport, G/LIC/N/3/CAN/11 
Page 4  
 
  sending or delivering of industrial hemp for co mmercial purposes.  Hemp is defined in these 
Regulations as the Genera Cannabis  plant, its leaves and flowering heads containing less than 
0.3 per cent of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), and includes the derivatives of the plant and plant parts such as the oil derived from hemp seeds. 
 
"Precursor Chemicals" 
 
 Precursor Control Regulations: Sets out th e circumstances and requirements in which 
producers, distributors, importers, exporters, pha rmacists, practitioners, a nd hospitals may conduct 
regulated activities, including production, sale/provision, packaging, importation and exportation of 
two broad classes of chemicals listed in the Schedule to these Regulations: 
 - Class A precursors: ephedrine, pseudoephedrin e, piperidine, red/white phosphorus, etc. 
- Class B precursors: acetone, hydrochloric acid, toluene, etc.  
 While these regulations governing the import of  controlled substances, precursors and hemp 
may be referred to as three different "licensi ng/permit systems" – as procedures vary somewhat 
between the classes of substances – overall, the "syste ms" are very similar.  In this regard, unless 
otherwise specified in the text below, proce dures are the same for each type of substance. 
 
Purpose and coverage of licensing 
 
2. Prospective importers of controlled substances, Class A precursors or industrial hemp must be domestically licensed to import or conduct other regula ted activities with the specified substance.  The 
prospective importers must then submit an application for an import permit.  The application must specify the supplier's name, address and country, th e 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 applies to controlled substances, industrial hemp and precursor chemicals 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 as most countries are a signatory to thes e conventions.  However, not all substances that 
are controlled in Canada are controlled in other jurisdictions (e.g., impurities, analogs, anabolic 
steroids, industrial hemp, etc.).   4. The import permit system is intended to mini mize diversion to illicit markets by making sure 
the quantity of drugs imported does not exceed the a nnual estimate of legitimate Canadian medical or 
scientific needs, as communicated to the Intern ational Narcotics Control Board (INCB).  The 
Canadian regulatory system is required to have an import 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 substan ces (considered "controlled 
substances" in Canada) are published by the Un ited Nations, and this in formation is provided 
to dealers upon request and is available on the UN website.  Any nation exporting these 
controlled substances may obtain information on Canadian quotas through the INCB.  Canada 
does not allocate a specific quantity to any foreign country or domestic importer. 
  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/11 
 Page 5 
 
 
  II. The quotas for narcotic drugs and psychotr opic substances ("controlled substances") are 
allocated annually in accordance with  the requirements of the INCB. 
 III. Permits to import controlled substances, indus trial hemp and Class A precursor chemicals are 
only issued to dealers who are licensed to c onduct activities with the re levant substances.  
Licensed dealers are also required to inform the Office of Controlled Substances when an 
import takes place, including the quantity imported.   Unused portions of permits for drugs and 
unused portions of cancelled permits for drugs ar e credited back to the quota for the current 
year.  The names of the importers are not pub lished for confidentiality and security reasons, 
although for controlled substances and precursors.  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. 
 V. Import permits are usually issued within twenty  working days of receipt of the application.  
  VI.  Import permits for controlled substances a nd industrial hemp are issued for immediate 
importation except when a dealer has indicated a wish to import during the following calendar 
year.  In this case, the permit becomes valid 1 January of that year.  All permits are valid for 
at least three months from the date of issue with none extending beyond 31 December of any given year.  For precursor chemicals, import permits are valid for six months or until the expiry date of the licence if this is prior to the six-month period, and may also cross two 
calendar years. 
 
VII. All applications to import controlled substa nces, industrial hemp and precursor chemicals are 
reviewed by the Office of Controlled Substances.  Import permits are issued by the Office on the behalf of the Minister of Health Canada. 
 VIII. Import permits are issued on the basis of firs t-come, first-served, provided that the applicant 
(a licensed dealer) meets all of the prevailing priorities, i.e., security measures in place, 
internal controls, secured transportation, valid  customs broker, etc.  There is no maximum 
amount allocated per applicant.  Applicati ons are examined for accuracy on receipt. 
 IX. Under Canadian law and the international est imate system of the INCB, the narcotic drugs 
and psychotropic substances (i.e . controlled substances) requiring import permits also require 
export permits issued by the competent authorities of the exporting country. 
 X. Not applicable.  XI. There are products that are listed on a licence only which may be issued on condition that the 
quantity of substances involved be exported and not sold on the Canadian market.   
 7. (a) An application for a permit to import contro lled substances, precursor chemicals or industrial 
hemp – which is required to obtain a manufacturer's or distributor's licence for the specified substance  – is usually issued within  twenty wo rking days of receipt of the application.    
Import permits cannot be issued for goods arriving at the port without a licence. 
 (b) All import permits are generally granted twenty working days of receipt of a complete permit 
application if there is a legitimate medical or scientific need, and physical security for 
safekeeping purposes. G/LIC/N/3/CAN/11 
Page 6  
 
  (c) No.  Permits are valid for at least three months from the date of issue and none extends 
beyond 31 December of the year in which they  were issued for controlled substances. For 
precursor chemicals, permits are valid for six months or until the expiry date of the licence, and may cover two calendar years.     
 
(d) The Office of Controlled Substances (Health Ca nada) is the only authority an importer needs 
to contact. 
 8. An application for an import permit will be re fused if a company is not licensed to conduct 
activities in Canada domestically, if the product is not currently on the licence, if the security 
provided would be inadequate, if there is an in sufficient quota remaining (for the narcotic drug and 
psychotropic substances), if there has been non-co mpliance with the Acts and Regulations by the 
importer or if there is reason to suspect that there will be diversion of the drug to an illicit market.  
Reasons are given for refusing permits.  Applicants ha ve a right to appeal a decision by providing us 
with a written notice supporting the proposed importation.  Eligibility of importers to apply for a permit  
 9. For controlled substances, industrial hemp a nd Class A precursor chemicals, eligibility to 
apply for import permits is limited to individuals or companies licensed to conduct regulated activities 
with these substances in Canada.  For Class B precu rsor chemicals registrations are issued for 
companies, and import permits for each individual shipment are not required.  A list of licensed 
companies is maintained and can be provided on requ est to licensed dealers.  There is no fee attached 
to the import permits.  However, a fee and other requirements apply to obtain the licence to conduct 
regulated activities with controlled substances domest ically.  There is no fee for a Class A precursor 
licence, a Class B precursor registration or an industrial hemp licence.  Documentational and other requirements for a permit application  
 10. For controlled substances, industrial hemp  and Class A precursors, applicants (licensed 
dealers) must specify the name and quantity of  substance involved, the source and destination 
addresses, method of conveyance, and customs port of import.    For Class A precursor chemicals, the 
proposed conveyance, date of import into Canada , and any countries of transhipment are also 
requested.  11. Canadian import permits and in most case s export permits from the exporting (supplying) 
country. 
 
12. No.  13. No. 
 
Conditions of licensing 
 14. Import permits for controlled substances are valid for a maximum period of four months.  For 
precursor chemicals, import permits are valid for six months with no extension, or until the expiry date of the licence if the period is less than the six-month period.  
15. No. 
 16. No.   G/LIC/N/3/CAN/11 
 Page 7 
 
 
  17.(a) If the illicit value exceeds CAN$4 million (street  value), the Royal Canadian Mounted Police 
at the port of entry must be notified by the importer, 48 hours in advance of the drug's expected time of arrival.  For these situati ons, a statement specifying this requirement is 
added to the permit.  Other conditions may apply in exceptional circumstances. 
 
(b) No. 
 
Other Procedural Requirements 
 18. No. 
 
19. No.  
II. FOOD AND DRUGS ACT  
 Canada wishes to inform the Committee on Im port Licensing that the notification regarding 
the Natural Health Products Act submitted under Article 7.3 of th e Agreement contained in the 
document G/LIC/N/3/CAN/10, dated November 18th 2011,  remains valid for the year 2012.  We wish 
to notify the Committee that the title of this secti on has been changed to "Food and Drugs Act" in 
order to reflect that all regulations on NHPs fall under this Act.  
III. 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 Resour ces.  The legal definition of explosives includes 
blasting explosives, detonators, propellants, sporting and industria l 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$125.  Samples are 
usually required for laboratory examin ation.  Testing fees depend on the type of tests to be carried out 
and the number of samples to be examined.  Th is can vary, for example, from CAN$2108 for one 
fireworks sample and up to CAN$16881 for ten firewo rks samples.  The criteri a for authorization are 
based on the safety characteristics of the explosiv e substances or articles during handling, storage, 
transport and use.  The objective of the authoriza tion process is to confirm that characteristics meet 
declared values and relevant standards.  Authoriza tion also confirms that the product classification is 
in conformity with the recommendations of the Co mmittee 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 kinds of importation 
permits are issued; a general permit issued for a specific quantity in one shipment, and an annual 
permit issued for unlimited shipments of authori zed explosives during a twelve-month period.  In 
addition, special permits may be issued for expl osives required for chemical analysis, scientific 
research, field testing and fireworks competitions or other special purposes. 
 
3. The system applies to explosives from all countries.  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/11 
Page 8  
 
  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.   5. The Explosives Act, R.S., c.E-17 amended by  2004 c.15 and the Explosives Regulations, 
C.R.C., c.599 as amended.  The system is a st atutory 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 exis t in Canada for the safe and secure storage of 
the quantity being imported.  Permits may be ob tained 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 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 approach the Explos ives Regulatory Division of the Department of 
Natural Resources.  No other administrative bodies are involved. 
 
8. An application for an explosives importation pe rmit may only be refused for failure to meet 
safety criteria.  Reasons for 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 requirements of the Explosives Regulations relative to the 
storage, sale, purchase and possession, and of the Transportation of Dangero us Goods Regulations 
relative to transport, of the explosive to be  imported may apply for an importation permit. 
 
Documentational and other requireme nts for application for licence 
 
10. The Forms of application and permits to im port explosives are available from the Explosives 
Regulatory Division.  Available at: http:// www.nrcan.gc.ca/minerals-metals/explosives/3476. 
 11. The importers Transmission Sc hedule (Form 16) is required to be  prepared in duplicate by the 
importer and presented to the Customs Officer at th e point of entry along w ith the Importation Permit 
(Form 14 for General, Form 17 for Annual) for ve rification and forwarding of one copy of the 
transmission schedule to the Explosives Regulatory Di vision of the Department of Natural Resources. 
 12. The present fee is CAN$160.00 for a Ge neral Importation Permit and a minimum of 
CAN$160.00 for an Annual Importation Perm it with a maximum fee of CAN$1 300. 
 
13. Other than the fee, there is no deposit or a dvance payment associated w ith the issuance of an 
importation permit.   G/LIC/N/3/CAN/11 
 Page 9 
 
 
  Conditions of licensing 
 
14. Explosives Importation Permits can be issu ed for a period of not 12 months.  General 
Importation Permits are valid for one shipment wh ile Annual Importation Permits are valid for any 
number of shipments. 
 
15. There is no penalty for the non-utilization of an explosives importation permit.  16. Permits are not transferable between im porters and only the products made by the 
manufacturer(s) specified in the permit may be imported. 
 
17. There are no conditions attached to the issu ance of an explosives importation permit relative 
to quantitative restrictions other than safe and secure  storage location in Canada.  Depending on the 
quantity to be stored, a magazine (i.e. storage) li cence issued by the Explosives Regulations Division 
may be required.  Importation permit applican ts will be advised if this is the case. 
 
Other procedural requirements 
 
18-19. Persons not resident in Ca nada or not having a chief place of business in Canada are required 
to post a bond before being permitted to impor t explosives (Explosives Act Section 9 (2.1)). 
 IV. NUCLEAR SAFETY AND CONTROL ACT 
Canada wishes to inform the Committee on Im port Licensing that the notification submitted 
under Article 7.3 of the Agreement contained in the document G/LIC/N/3/CAN/10, dated 
18 November 2011, remains valid for the year 2012.  V. NATIONAL ENERGY BOARD ACT 
A. N
ATURAL GAS 
Note:  The Jobs, Growth and Long-term Prosperity Act  received Royal Assent on 29 June 2012. It 
contains amendments to the National Energy Board Act  (the NEB Act) which affect the 
National Energy Board's (the Boar d) review of oil and gas expor t and gas import applications.  
A major consequence of the amendments is th at public hearings are no longer mandatory for 
gas import or export license applications.   
 
As a result of the amendments to the NEB Ac t, the NEB issued on 11 July 2012 an Interim 
Memorandum of Guidance Concerning Oil and Gas E xport Applications and G as Import Applications 
under Part VI of the National Energy Board Act (Interim Oil and Gas MOG) .  The Interim Oil and 
Gas MOG provided guidance to applicants until such  time as the Board had completed a review and 
update of the National Energy Board Act Part VI (Oil and Gas) Regulations , SOR/96-244 (Part VI Oil 
and Gas Regulations).  
Additional details are available here: http://www.neb-one.gc.ca/clf-
nsi/rpblctn/ctsndrgltn/rrggnmgpnb/xprtsndmprt/nb2012_09_20-eng.html.  Outline of system (reflecting NEB Act  amendments, but not the regulations being updated) 
 
1. The National Energy Board Act and the Part VI Regulations made thereunder control imports 
of natural gas, whether in gaseous or liquid state,  by pipeline, railway tank cars and tank trucks or 
tankers.  Imports are authorized by both licen ces 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 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/11 
Page 10  
 
  and short-term large volume imports.  An application is made to the Board for import authorization.  
In the case of a licence, the application may, at the NEB's discretion, be set down for a public hearing.  
No licence is effective until approved by the Gover nor-in-Council.  The issuance of an import order 
requires the approval of the Board and does not re quire a public hearing or Governor in Council 
approval. 
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing 
 
2. Import authorization, in the form of licence or order, is required for a ll imports of natural gas 
in either gaseous or liquid state (see the definiti on of "gas" in the National Energy Board Act).  
Authorization from the National Energy Board is not  required for imports of propane, butanes, ethane, 
ethylene and propylene, which are each exempted from the requirement for import authorization by the Part VI Regulations.  The term of any import licence cannot exceed 25 years.  Imports of natural 
gas by orders are restricted to 24 months for volumes over 30 thousand cubic metres per day and to 
20 years for less than 30 thousand cubic metres per day.  Imports for re-export for up to 25 years can 
be done by order. 
 3. The system described applies to gas origina ting in and coming from any country.  In practice, 
however, all imports of natural gas prior to 2009 or iginated from the United States.  LNG shipments 
commenced in 2009.  
4. The purpose of licensing is to ensure that long- term imports of gas are in the public interest. 
 5. The authorization of imports is maintained under the National Energy Board Act, a statute of 
the Parliament of Canada, and the National Energy Board Part VI Regulations.  The term "gas" is 
defined in the Act and is not subjected to admini strative discretion.  Legislative action would be 
required to abolish the system. 
 
Procedures 
 
6. I-IV. There is no quota system.  Determinations are made on a case-by-case basis.  
V. For processing license applications a public h earing may be required and is at the discretion 
of the NEB.  The length of time to process a licence application is approximately four months or longer depending on whether a public heari ng is deemed necessary.  Applications 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. 
 VI. In some cases, imports co mmence immediately upon issuance of the authorization, or, 
depending on the requirements of the import arrangement, there may be some interval 
between the authorization and the commencement of the import.   
 
VII. The prospective importer has to approach one  administrative organ only, the National Energy 
Board.  However, licences for imports require  the approval of the Governor-in-Council to 
take effect. 
 VIII.  Applications are examined on receipt.  Th ere is no allocation of import authorizations to 
applicants. 
 IX. There are no applicable bilateral or multila teral arrangements besides the Canada-U.S. Free 
Trade Agreement and the North American Free Trade Agreement. 
  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/11 
 Page 11 
 
 
  X. The granting of import authorization w ould generally be cond itional on an export 
authorization being granted by the appropriate foreign government agency. 
 7.(a) Application for a licence should be made in  advance of importation by  a reasonable length of 
time, depending on the size and complex ity of the importation arrangement.  
 
(b) An order can be granted very quickly by the Board.  A licence may, at the discretion of the 
NEB require that a public hearing be held. 
 (c) There are no limitations as to the period of the year during which application for import 
authorization may be made. 
 (d) See response to VII above.  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 in terest.  An applicant, in the event of refusal to 
issue a licence, may resubmit his application to the National Energy Board with appropriate amendments or may request a review.  Appeal can  be made to the Federal Court of Appeal on a 
question of law or jurisdiction, on leave being obtained from the Court.   
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence 
 
9. Any person is eligible to apply for an import license.    
Documentational and other requireme nts for application for licence 
 
10. The Governor-in-Council may make regulations 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 Furn ished by Applicant for Licence to Import Gas" 
sets out the information required to be filed by an applicant for a licence to import gas.  In addition, 
the National Energy Board may require further informa tion.  With respect to import orders, applicants 
must file such information as the National Ener gy Board may require.  However, no specific 
information requirements for order applications are se t out in the Act or in the Part VI Regulations. 
 11. No documents are required upon actual importation.  However, the holder of an import authorization is required to provide the Nationa l Energy Board with information as required, 
including the actual volumes imported during the term  of the authorization, 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. 
 
Conditions of licensing 
 
14. No import licence may be issued for a term in  excess of 25 years.  The validity of a licence 
cannot be extended beyond this period without an amendment to the Act by Parliament. 
 
15. There is no penalty for the non-utilization of a licence or a portion of a licence.  Licences are permissive only.  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/11 
Page 12  
 
  16. Yes.  They are transferable subject to National Energy Board and Governor-in-Council 
approval.  17. Conditions attached to the issue of licences and orders may include those matters prescribed 
by the Part VI Regulations, including: duration of  the licence, 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 government agency.  
Other procedural requirements 
 
18. Apart from procedures defined in the Regulations made pursuant to the Act, including 
requirements associated with inspection, meteri ng and reporting, no additional administrative 
procedures are required.   19. Not applicable. 
 
VI. EXPORT AND IMPORT PERMITS ACT 
Note:   There have been minor changes to  Cana da's import licensing regime for the Export and 
Import Permits Act (sections A, B7-Frozen Po rk and B10-Carbon and Specialty Steel), as 
described in document G/LIC/N/3/CAN/10, Notif ication under Article 7.3 of the Agreement 
on Import Licensing Procedures. With regards to  frozen pork, it has been removed from this 
notification given that, effective 29 July 2011, frozen pork under tariff item 0203.29.00 was 
removed from Canada's Import Control List (ICL)  and the European Union Surtax Order was 
repealed. The changes in section B10- Carbon a nd Specialty Steel of the questionnaire relate 
to a change to the type of permit required. For convenience, the entire questionnaire answers 
for this section are provided below.  
 
A. GENERAL RESPONSES APPLICABLE TO DAIRY PRODUCTS ; CHICKEN , TURKEY AND EGGS ; 
BROILER HATCHING EGGS AND CHICKS ; BEEF AND VEAL ; MARGARINE ; AND WHEAT AND 
BARLEY  
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 permit issued through the Trade Controls and Technical Barriers Bureau of the Department 
of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in or der to benefit from the lower rate of duty.  
Imports over the quota level, subject to highe r rates of duty, may enter under a General 
Import Permit.  For wheat, barley and their produc ts, the TRQ is administered on a first-come, 
first-served basis. 
   Effective 8 September 2008, Cana da implemented import controls for milk protein substances 
with a milk protein content of 85 per cent 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 conclude d with New Zealand, Switzerland and the EC under 
GATT Article XXVIII.  A TRQ for milk protein substa nces with a milk protein content of 85 per cent 
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
st April 2009. Certification of these changes to 
Canada's Schedule V became effective 6 July 2011. 
  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/11 
 Page 13 
 
 
  Outline of system 
 
1. See VI. (B). 
 
Purpose and coverage of licensing 
 2.-4. See Product Outline in VI. (B).  5. Licensing is maintained through regulati ons 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 th e 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 alloca tion by inter-governmental arrangement; 
- to restrict, for the purpose of supporting a ny action taken under the Fa rm 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 fixe d or determined under that Act; 
- to implement any action taken under the Farm Income Protection Act, the Fisheries Prices 
Support Act, the Agricultural Products Co-operativ e Marketing Act, the Agricultural Products 
Board Act or the Canadian Dairy Commission Act,  with the object or the effect of supporting 
the price of the article; 
- to implement an intergovernment al arrangement or commitment; and 
- where at any time it appears to the satisfacti on of the Governor-in-Council on a report of the 
Minister made pursuant to an inquiry ma de 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 impor ted or are likely to be imported into Canada 
at such prices, in such quantities and under su ch conditions as to cause or threaten serious 
injury to the production in Canada of like or  directly competitive goods, any goods of the 
same kind may, by order of the Governor-in-Co uncil, 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, is n ecessary to prevent or remedy the injury. 
  Once an item has been placed on the Import Contro l 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 eith er individual 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 ca n alter or amend the Expor t and Import Permits Act. 
  The Minister may also decide to allocate sh ares 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 Product Outline in VI. (B).  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/11 
Page 14  
 
  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 event the a pplicant may correct the application 
or request reconsideration, or the applicant ma y choose to pay the over-access tariff and import the 
goods under a General Import Permit, wh ich is automatically applicable. 
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence 
 
9. Any resident of Canada may apply for a permit.  Citizenship is not a criterion. 
 Documentational and other requireme nts for application for licence 
 
10. The applicant is required to provide the in formation requested on the application for an 
import permit.  For certain products, additional inform ation and/or documentati on may be required, as 
indicated in the specific product group responses. 
 
11. See Product Outline in VI (B).  12. Any applicant may apply directly to the De partment of Foreign Affairs and International 
Trade in Ottawa for a permit, for which the asso ciated 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 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.  
13. No. 
 
Conditions of licensing 
 
14. Import permits normally have a validity of 30 days.  Requests 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 im port permits that are returned for cancellation. 
 
16. Permits are not transferable between importers.  17. Under very particular circumstances, specia l conditions may be attached from time to time. 
 
Other procedural requirements 
 
18. No.  19. Not applicable.   G/LIC/N/3/CAN/11 
 Page 15 
 
 
  B. OTHER RESPONSES – BY PRODUCT GROUPS  
1. Carbon and Specialty Steel 
Outline of system 
 
1. Carbon and specialty steel are on the Import Control List, established under the Export and 
Import Permits Act , and are subject to general licensing. 
 
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 carbon steel products 
are being and are likely to be imported into Canada at such prices, in such quantities and under such 
conditions as to make it advisable to collect informat ion with respect to the importation of such goods.  
Carbon steel products are defined as semi-finished steel  (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 pipe and tube. Specialty steel pr oducts were added to the Import Control List 
1 June 1987, following an amendment to the Expor t and Import Permits Act, in order that the 
monitoring system for steel would be  comprehensive.  Specialty steel products are defined as stainless 
flat-rolled products (sheet, strip and plate), stainless steel bar, stainless steel pipe and tube, stainless 
steel wire and wire product, alloy tool steel, mould steel and high speed steel. 
 3. The monitoring system applies to carbon and specialty steel imports from all countries.  4. The licensing is not intended to restrict th e quantity or value of imports:  it is intended to 
monitor the volume and the origin of carbon and specialty steel products. 
 5. The action of placing carbon steel on the Import Control List was taken under the authority of 
section 5(1) of the Export and Import Permits Act.  
Procedures 
 
6. Not applicable.  7. Effective 1 April 2012, all imports of carbon and specialty steel were exempted from the need of a transaction-based import permit, and imports  of carbon and specialty steel now enter Canada 
under two General Import Permits. Th e appropriate General Import Permit number must be stated on 
the customs entry document.    8. See General Responses.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence 
 9. Any resident of Canada may in voke the General Import Permits. 
 
Documentational and other requireme nts for application for licence 
 
10. Nil. 
 11.  Normal customs entry forms indicating the appropriate General Import Permit are required. G/LIC/N/3/CAN/11 
Page 16  
 
  12. There are no fees related to the use of General Import Permits. 
 13.  Nil.  
Conditions of licensing 
 
14.-17.  See General Responses.  
Other procedural requirements 
 
18. No. 
 19. Not applicable.  
VII. ANIMALS AND PLANTS 
Note:  There have been minor changes to Canada 's import licensing regime for the Plant Protection 
Act (section 7), the Health of Animals Act (sec tions 1, 3, 7, 11 and 14), and the Licensing and 
Arbitration Regulations (secti ons 5 and 11), as described in documents G/LIC/N/3/CAN/10 
and G/LIC/N/3/CAN/9 notification under Article  7.3 of the Agreement on Import Licensing 
Procedures. The changes in the aforementioned sect ions of the questionnaire relate to certain 
clarifications, specific wording changes and updated website addresses. For convenience, the 
entire questionnaire for Animals and Plants is provided below. 
 
For aquatic animal exports to Canada, amendments to the Health of Animals Regulations 
entered into force on 10 December 2011 which in clude import controls and requirements for 
export certification for aquatic animals listed in Schedule III of the Health of Animal 
Regulations. As these new import requirements re present a significant regulatory change for 
Canadian importers and exporters  of aquatic animals to Canada, a one year transition period 
was provided.  Effective December 10, 2012, a CFIA import permit with accompanying foreign country export certification will be re quired for the import of any aquatic animal 
species and their products listed in Schedule III of the Health of Animals Regulations.  For 
additional information, please visit 
http://www.inspection.gc.ca/englis h/anima/aqua/20111118inde.shtml. 
 A. 
PLANT PROTECTION ACT  
Outline of system 
 
1.  A permit to import outlines phytosanitary cond itions which must be met prior to export from 
the country of origin, during export and upon arriva l in Canada.  These conditions are required to 
prevent the introduction or spread within Canada of a plant pest.    
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 of the Plant Protection Regulations, the Mi nister 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 obstacle to th e control of a plant pest or is/could be infested 
with either a plant pest or a biological obstacle to th e control of a plant pest if, the Minister determines 
that every precaution necessary can and will be taken to  prevent the introduction into Canada or the  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/11 
 Page 17 
 
 
  establishment and spread within Canada of a plant p est or biological obstacle to the control of a plant 
pest.   3. The system applies to plant pest (e.g., diseas e cultures, insects), plants and plant products and 
any other article whose importation into Canada is regulated under the Plant Protection Act and 
Regulations from all countries. 
 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 p est, plants and plant products and other articles 
regulated under the Plant Protection Act and Regula tions imported in Canada  conform to Canada's 
plant protection import requirements.  The permit system protects against the introduction into and 
spread of pests injurious to plants in Canada.  5. The permit system is legislated and regulat ed under the Plant Protection Act and the Plant 
Protection Regulations.  The permit system is statut orily required.  Furthermore, the legislation does 
not allow the designation of products to be subjected  to administrative discretion. Lastly, it is not 
possible for the government to abolish the system without legislative approval.  
Procedures 
 
6. There are no quantitative or value limits on th e importation of products from other countries. 
 
7.(a) An importer must obtain a valid import pe rmit prior to importation.  Written permit 
applications may be mailed/e-mailed or faxe d to the Licensing, Permitting and Registration 
Division, National Inspection and Investigation Services Directorate of the Canadian Food 
Inspection Agency (CFIA).  Once all required information has been received and a review of 
the permit application form has been completed,  the CFIA will endeavour to issue a Permit to 
Import within five working da ys (subject to change). 
  The Canadian Food Inspection Agency will not issue an import permit for regulated 
commodities that have already arrived in Cana da.  This is because an import permit is not 
retroactive. 
 
(b) No.  An application cannot be granted imme diately 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 Licensing, Permitting and Registration Division, National Inspection and Investigation Services Directorate of the Canadian Food Inspection 
Agency. 
 
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  refused or revoked if a person has contravened the 
Act and/or Regulations.  The importe r 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. G/LIC/N/3/CAN/11 
Page 18  
 
  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 la ws of Canada to reside in Canada for a period 
of six months or more and who will have possession, car e or control of the thing to be 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 fo r application for a permit to import 
 
10. An application for a permit shall be in wr iting, signed and dated by the person applying for 
the permit and contain the following information: 
 (a) the name, complete address a nd 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 means by which the thing will be transported; 
 (i) the country and place where the thing was pr opagated or produced, and the country and place 
from which it was shipped to Canada; 
 
(j) the number of packages, if sent by mail or courier service; and 
 (k) 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, affidavit, etc.) specified on the permit are required at the time of 
importation.  12. Fees for each permit application can ra nge between CAN$15 a nd CAN$250, depending on 
the reason for importation and the need for a pest risk assessment. 
 13. There is no deposit or advance payment that is  required or associated with the issuance of a 
permit. However, full payment is requi red before a permit can be issued. 
  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/11 
 Page 19 
 
 
  Conditions of permit 
 
14. Permits to import are valid for the period of  time specified on the permit. The permit to 
import is valid for multiple shipments and unlimite d quantities unless otherwise specified. Permits to 
import issued to persons travelling or collecting will  be valid for no more than one year.  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 permit or a portion of a permit.  16. Import permits are not tran sferable between importers. 
 
17. The issuance of an import permit is only subject to the provisions of the Plant Protection Act and Regulations.  
Other procedural requirements 
 
18. Generally, there are no other administra tive procedures apart from the import permit 
application procedures.  19. Not applicable.  
B. H
EALTH OF ANIMALS ACT  
Outline of system 
 
1. For importation from countries other than the U. S., a permit is required for all animals (except 
pet dogs and domesticated cats, certain rodents, re ptiles excluding turtles and their eggs, amphibians 
and marine mammals), semen (except canine), embryo s, veterinary biologics, and certain animal 
products and by-products depending on the species a nd 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, psittacine birds (other than  pet birds), turtles, tortoises, skunks, foxes and 
raccoons, some ruminants and swine, elephants, honeybees, dogs under 8 months of age (commercial 
shipments and for research) certain rodents, a nd certain other animal products and by-products 
dependent on species. For additi onal details on CFIA import requi rements, please refer to the 
Automated Import Reference System (AIRS) at ww w.inspection.gc.ca/english/imp/airse.shtml.   
 
Purpose and coverage of licensing 
 
2. See No.1 above. 
 3. Imports are permitted only from countries wh ich are recognized by the Canadian Food 
Inspection Agency as free of serious animal diseases which may affect the species of animal or bird 
imported.  However, certain anim al products may be imported 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 other government agencies when th ere is concern about a 
disease which may be transmitted to people.   4. The permit system is intended to ensure that  all items identified in No.1 are imported in 
conformity with Canada's sanitary health regula tions to protect against the introduction of diseases 
into or spread within Canada.  Decisions are ma de following a risk analysis and risk assessment 
process.  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/11 
Page 20  
 
  5. The Health of Animals Act and Regulati ons thereunder. Goods, products and animals 
requiring permits are specified (see No.1).  Th ere is no authority to waive regulations. 
 
Procedures 
 
6. There is provision for the importation of certain food products to a maximum amount for 
sample purposes only under approved conditions.  7.(a) In the case of live animals,  animal semen, or animal pr oducts, an import permit must be 
issued prior to the importation and the perm it describes the conditions of importation as it 
relates to health certification.  On arrival at the port of entry in Canada: 
  (i) animals receive veterinary inspecti on, as applicable, and the accompanying permit 
and health certification (if required) are inspected to assure that import requirements are met; and 
 (ii) in the case of animal semen and animal  products, the permit and health certification 
are checked; product inspection occurs at designated receiving centres inland; 
 (iii) some animals require post-import quarantine; and  (iv) some animals require post-import testing (in quarantine).  
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 issuance 
of the permit.  They are examined and reviewed to assure the product is safe, free from contaminants and that the label meets all requirements. 
 (b) In most cases where permit conditions exist, a permit can be issued within five working days. 
 
(c) No.  (d) Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), except for endangered species which require an 
additional permit from Environment Canada. 
 
8. We do 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 country does not have a satisfactor y 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, or Public Health Agency  of Canada, with regard  to 
zoonoses or communicable diseases common to humans and animals.   
 
(d) Commercial importers of veterinary biologi cs 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 maintain ing the cold chain and reporting adverse 
events. 
 
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 satis fy the import permit conditions.  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/11 
 Page 21 
 
 
  Documentational and other requirements fo r application for a permit to import 
 
10. Application must be made in writing on the appropriate application form, and must specify the species, quantities, date of arrival, country of origin and purposes of import.  
11. In addition to the Permit to Import Animals and the normal customs invoices, a certificate of 
health issued by the veterinary services of th e country of origin must normally accompany the 
shipment. A customs document is also needed. So me form of animal identification is normally 
required.  Please consult the Automated Import Re ference System for additional information on 
import requirements.   
 
12. Yes.  See CFIA Fees notice at: http ://www.inspection.gc.ca/about-the-cfia/acts-and-
regulations/fees-notice/eng/ 1307222845373/1307 222984162.  
 13. Yes, payments are requested at the time of submitting the 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 ship ments over a one year period. A single entry permit 
is generally valid for 3 months. 
 
15. No.  16. No.  
17. See No. 6. 
 
Other procedural requirements 
 
18. Pre-import quarantine and testing may be required.  
19. Not applicable. 
 C. F
ISH INSPECTION ACT  
Outline of system  
 
1. Other than for personal consumption or persona l use as trade samples, the importation of all 
fish and fish products into Canada as food for hum an consumption is subject to licensing under the 
Fish Inspection Act and its Regulations, which is  administered by the Canadian Food Inspection 
Agency (CFIA).  The Fish Inspection Act an d its Regulations contain requirements for 
wholesomeness, labelling, packaging, grading and human health and safety.    Purposes and coverage of licensing 
2. See No.1 above.  3. The system applies to fish and fish products from all countries.  See the Fish Inspection 
Regulations  for exceptions or additional requirements for products from certain countries.  The list of 
specific countries that are approved to export live or raw molluscan shellfish is available at: 
http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/ fssa/fispoi/import/molimpe.shtml. 
 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/11 
Page 22  
 
   Other non-quantitative restrictions exist for the import of certain species.  For example, the 
importation of live freshwater mitten crab (genus Erio cheir) or puffer fish (family Tetraodontidae) is 
not permitted under the Fish Inspection Regulations
2.  
 4. The purpose of licensing is to ensure th at importers understand their responsibility for 
ensuring that the fish they import will meet all th e applicable Canadian regulatory requirements.  
Imports must also meet all the applicable import licence and fish inspection regulatory requirements.  
 5. The authorization of imports is maintained under the Fish Inspection Act and its Regulations.  
The licensing is statutorily required (see Fish Inspection Regulations).  The Fish Inspection Act 
allows the Governor-in-Council to regulate imports of  fish.  There is no administrative discretion with 
respect to the products subject to licensing.  Legisla tive approval would be requir ed in order to abolish 
elements of the import system described in th e Fish Inspection Regulations.  Any person or 
organization who wishes to import fish or fish produc ts into Canada, for sale or distribution for human 
consumption, must first obtain an import licence fro m a CFIA office.  Fish for personal consumption 
and personal use as trade samples are exempt from these requirements. 
 
Procedures 
 
6. There are no quantitative or value restrictions. 
 
7. Where there is no quantitative limit on impor tation of a product or on imports from a 
particular country:  (a) Licences are granted by CFIA in a timely manner.  Waiting time depends on the complexity 
of the request.  The process for CFIA to gran t an import licence requires the importer to 
submit to CFIA a complete application package for a fish import licence which must include:  
 - completed application form for a fish import licence;  - for new importers, Application for Credit CFIA/ACIA 0015;  - $500 fee for a fish import licence or $5000 for a Fish Import Licence under the 
Quality Management Program for Importers (QMPI), as fixed by the Canadian Food 
Inspection Agency Fees Notice; 
 - Canada Revenue Agency Business Number documentation.  
 
In addition to the application package, importe rs are required to advise CFIA how they will 
meet the following regulatory requirements: 
 - import products that are not tainted, decomposed or unwholesome and meet all 
Canadian regulatory requirements; 
 - store products in a way that preven ts contamination and deterioration; 
 - track distribution of product they import including name and address of person to 
whom they sold the fish and the date it was sold; 
 - track complaints and investigate informa tion that they receive which questions the 
safety of their product; 
 - obtain process control documents for ca nned and ready-to-eat products you import 
(see Section 4.7.4 Process Control Documents). 
 
A fish import licence expires one year after the date of issue and is not transferable. 
 
(b) See response to part (a). 
 
                                                      
2 http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/ fssa/fispoi/import/pol/base.shtml#no41.  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/11 
 Page 23 
 
 
  (c) There are no limitations regarding the time of  year during which an application can be made. 
 (d) The application for a Fish Import Licence is submitted solely to the importer's local CFIA 
office for review; it is a "single-window" pro cess. The office receiving the application 
coordinates the submission with other CFIA offices. 
 
8. The Fish Inspections Regulations allow for th e CFIA to refuse to grant (or renew) a Fish 
Import Licence under certain conditions in addition to failure to meet the ordinary criteria.  The FIR 
state that the CFIA shall issue a licence, upon receipt of a complete application and the applicable fee, 
unless there are reasonable grounds to believe that the applicant will not comply with the Fish 
Inspection Act or Regulations (e.g. providing fal se information, non-notification of imports, a poor 
history of compliance).  The applicant should be prov ided with the reason(s) for refusal.  CFIA policy 
allows for an appeal of refusal to issue a licence .  The Regulations allow for appeals to the Regional 
Director in cases of a suspension or revocation of  a licence and describe the procedures to do so. 
 Eligibility of importers to apply for licence 
9. Any person or company meeting the criteria is eligible to apply for a Fish Import Licence.  
 
Documentational and other requireme nts for application for licence 
10. To hold a fish import licence, importers must  maintain specific records, for no less than 
3 years, at an address in Canada.  The fish impor t licence application form and application for credit 
which must accompany the import licence application can be found online: 
  Fish import licence application form (see form # 5587):  
 http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/for/mpppe.shtml.  
 
 Application for credit which must accompan y import licence application (see form # 0015): 
 http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/for/mpppe.shtml.    Importers must notify the closest CFIA fi sh inspection office in writing using the Fish 
Import Notification (FIN)  prior to the importation of a product, or within 48 hours following 
importation.  Notification must include all items iden tified in the "Instructions to Complete the Fish 
Import Notification" (http://www.inspection.gc.ca/en glish/fssa/fispoi/import/pol/fine.shtml), including 
but not limited to: Importer name and license numb er, foreign producer, storage conditions, product 
description, product source and country of harvest, end use, etc.  11. Each written notification of importation must include the production codes for all canned and 
ready-to-eat fish (first-time imports of these pr oducts require documentation describing the process 
and processing controls applied to the lot for each  processor for each type of product which indicate 
that the product was adequately processed and will remain safe for its entire shelf-life). Failure to 
provide proper written notification for each imported shipment may result in enforcement action by 
CFIA.    
12. The fee for a Fish Import Licence is CAN$500.  Importers may apply for a voluntary program 
where they have additional responsibility for samp ling and testing.  The fee for this Quality 
Management Program for Importers (QMPI) licen ce is CAN$5000. CFIA Inspection service fees 
reflect the resources needed to inspect different product types and are applied based on the declared 
weight and type of product (as described on the Fish Import Notification). 
 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/11 
Page 24  
 
  13. Importers are responsible to pay service fees as a condition of holding a fish import licence.  
The importer applies for credit account with the CFIA at the time of application for an import licence.  
The service fees apply to each lot imported and ar e applied to the importer's account with CFIA. The 
importer is sent invoices on a regular basis (monthly)  for the service fees applied to the fish imported 
during the billing period.  There is no deposit or advance payment associated with the issuance of 
import licences. 
 
Conditions of licensing 
 
14. Licences are valid for 12 months.  Importers must  apply to renew their licence if they wish to 
continue to import fish after the expiry of their licence. 
 15. No.  16. Licences are not transferable between persons or businesses. 
 
17. Other conditions attached to the issue of a licence:   (a)  Not applicable.  (b)  No. 
 
Other procedural requirements 
 
18. No.  
19. Not applicable. 
 D. C
ANADA AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS ACT 
1. Dairy Product Regulations (as reflect ed in G/LIC/N/3/CAN/8/Add.1, dated 
19 April 2010) 
Outline of system 
 
1. The importation of cheese into Canada is s ubject to licensing under the Canada Agricultural 
Products Act and its regula tions (Dairy Product Regulations), whic h are administered by the Canadian 
Food Inspection Agency (CFIA).  Licensing is in tended to ensure that imported cheeses meet 
Canadian standards for safety, quality, composition, packaging and labelling. 
 
 Requirements related to a cheese import licence are specified in Sections 26.2 to 26.6 of the Dairy Products Regulations (DPR).  These sections  describe the requirements that must be met to 
apply for and maintain a cheese import licence as we ll as the conditions for suspension or cancellation 
of a licence.    Purposes and coverage of licensing 
 2. See No. 1.  3. The system applies to cheeses from all count ries imported into Canada. Licensing is not 
required for cheese which is not for sale in Canada an d (a) weight 20 kg or less;  (b) is carried on any 
vessel, train, motor vehicle, aircraft or other means of transportation for use as food for the crew or passengers thereof; (c) is part of an immigrant's pe rsonal effects;  (d) is consigned to a national or  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/11 
 Page 25 
 
 
  international exhibition and weighs 100 kg or less;  or (e) is imported from the United States into the 
Akwesasne Reserve for use by an Akwasasne resident.  4. The licensing system is not intended to restrict  the quantity or value of imports.  The licensing 
system ensures that importers implement effectiv e controls which provide assurance that the cheese 
they import is safe for consumption, and meets a ll relevant Canadian regul ations and standards. 
 5. The system for licensing of cheese is mainta ined under the DPR of the Canada Agricultural 
Products Act.  There is no administrative discretion w ith respect to the products subject to licensing. 
Legislative approval would be require d in order to abolish elements of the import system described in 
the Dairy Product Regulations. 
 
Procedures 
 6. The quantity and value of imported cheese products are not restricted.  
 
7.(a) CFIA provides cheese import licences in a time ly manner.  The waiting time is dependent on 
the completeness and accuracy of the company' s application.  If the applicant's current 
information and annexed documents are not co mplete and accurate, the application will be 
returned to the applicant for resubmissi on causing delays in the licensing process. 
 
(b)  Cheese import licences cannot be granted immediately. 
 (c)  There are no limitations as to the period of the year during which an application for a cheese 
license can be made. 
 
(d)  CFIA is the only administrative bod y which assesses cheese licence applications. 
 
8. Other than not submitting a complete and accura te application, there are no circumstances to 
refuse an application.  
 
Eligibility of Importers to Apply for licence 
 
9. Any person or company is eligible to ap ply for a licence to import cheese into Canada. 
 
Documentation and other requireme nts for application for licence 
 
10. An application for the issuance, renewal or  amendment of a cheese import licence shall be 
sent to the local CFIA dairy inspector in a form provided by the Agency (CFIA / ACIA 5562 (2008/08), available at http://www.inspection.gc. ca/english/for/mpppe.shtml) and shall indicate:  
 - whether it is an application for a new cheese import licence or for the renewal or amendment 
of an existing cheese import licence; 
 
- the number of the importer's existing cheese import licence, if any and expiry date;  and  - the name, address, including postal code, te lephone number, emergenc y contact number and 
e-mail address. 
 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/11 
Page 26  
 
   The application shall have annexed to it: 
 (a) a copy of the importer's cheese recall program, indicating:  
- the person responsible for carrying out the program; 
- the cheese coding system description; and 
- the notification and other procedures to effect the recall. 
 (b) a list of cheeses expected to be imported dur ing the period of the cheese import licence, and 
the country in which they originate;  and 
 
(c) if the importer has an establishment in Canada for the purpose of cutting, shredding, 
repackaging, etc. (not including storage) of the imported product, other than a registered establishment, the application shall also have annexed : 
 
- plans and specifications for the establishm ent including description of the location of 
the establishment in relation to adjacent f acilities, intended uses of rooms and types 
and location of equipment to be used. 
 
- a copy of the sanitation program for the establishment, indicating: 
-  the person responsible for carrying out the program;  
-  the equipment and chemical agents available for use to bring about and 
maintain clean and sanitary conditions; and  
-  the measures proposed to be taken to  ensure clean and sanitary conditions.  
 
-  a copy of the pest control program for the establishment, indicating: 
  -  the person responsible for carrying out the program; and  
 -  the measures proposed to be taken to safely and effectively control insects, 
birds, rodents and other vermin; and 
 
-  a document indicating the source of water to  be used at the establishment for drinking 
or for cheese preparation and a copy of a certificate of microbiological analysis of 
this water. 
 11. Brokers or importers are required to subm it the following documents to the regional CFIA 
Import Service Centres (ISC) for processing:  
- the Request for Release Approval (for cheese, import licence number indicated in the 
comments section) (CFIA/ACIA 5272);  
 - Import Declaration (for cheese, import licence number indicated in box 4) (CFIA/ACIA 
4560) and Import Declaration Annex A - Dairy Products (CFIA/ACIA 5304) if necessary; 
 
- any supplementary documents such as the commercial invoice, manifest, cargo control 
document. 
  These documents are initially reviewed for co mpleteness and accuracy by the ISC staff, 
including validation of the CFIA cheese import licence number.   
 
12. Importers are not required to pay any fee for the issuance, renewal or amendment of a cheese 
import licence; however, importers are required to pay a dairy product import fee. The dairy product 
import fees reflect the resources needed to mon itor and inspect the product and are based on the 
declared weight of a shipment as per:   G/LIC/N/3/CAN/11 
 Page 27 
 
 
  (a) in the case of a shipment of not more than 500 kg net weight,  $44.  
 (b) in the case of a shipment of more than 500 kg  but not more than 2,000 kg net weight an 
amount of $44 for the first 500 kg plus $0.012 per additional kg. 
 
(c) in the case of a shipment of more than 2,000 kg but not more than 6,000 kg net weight an 
amount of $62 for the first 2,000 kg  plus $0.0084 per additional kg. 
 (d) in the case of a shipment of more than 6,000 kg  but not more than 10,000 kg net weight an 
amount of $95.60 for the first 6,000 kg plus $0.0036 per additional kg. 
 
(e) in the case of a shipment of more than 10,000 kg net weight an amount of $110 for the first 
10,000 kg plus $0.0012 per additional kg. 
 13. There is no deposit or advance payment required for a cheese import licence.  Conditions of Licensing 
 
14. The Cheese import licence is not assignable and expires two years after the date of issue 
indicated on it. Prior to expiry, the CFIA administers the renewal process.  
15. There is no penalty for non-utilization of licence. 
 16. No.  17.(a) No. 
 
(b) No. 
 
Other procedural requirements 
 
18. Depending on the product and country of origin other programs may have additional 
requirements. e.g., Animal Health. 
 19. No.  
2. The Licensing and Arbitration Regulations (L&A Regulations) 
Outline of system 
 
1. The Licensing and Arbitration Regulations (L &A Regulations) of the Canada Agricultural 
Products Act covers fresh fruits a nd vegetables. The legislation is intended to ensure that dealers 
marketing fresh fruit and vegetables in import or  interprovincial trade conduct transactions in 
accordance with standard rules of trade. 
 
 In terms of licensing for the above commodities,  licensing applies only to Canadian importers 
of fresh fruits and vegetables.  Foreign exporters shipping fresh produce to Canada do not require a 
CFIA produce licence.  Purposes and coverage of licensing 
 2. See No. 1 above.  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/11 
Page 28  
 
  3. The licensing system applies to produce dealers importing fresh fruits and vegetables from 
any country. Dealers who have opted to become members of the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Dispute 
Resolution Corporation (FFVDRC), whose mandate is  similar to that of the L&A Regulations, are 
exempt from the L&A Regulations. The FFVDRC is a private corporation established in 2000 under 
the auspices of the NAFTA, who se members must comply with industry-developed fair trade 
standards.   
 4. The licensing system is not intended to restri ct the quantity or value of imports. The license 
system promotes fair and equitable trading of  fruits and vegetables inter-provincially and 
internationally.  It establishes terms and conditions that dealers must comply with when buying fresh 
produce, which include, among other things, proper notification when problems occur, requirement 
for inspection, etc.  5. The system for licensing of produce dealers is  maintained under the Licensing and Arbitration 
Regulations (L&A Regulations) of the  Canada Agricultural Products Act.  Licensing is not subject to 
administrative discretion. Dealers of products consid ered to be fresh fruits and vegetables are required 
to be licensed, unless exempt as described in the L&A Regulations.  It would require legislative approval to abolish the fresh fruit and vegetable licence system.   
 
Procedures 
 
6. These products are not restricted as to the quantity or value of imports. 
 7.(a)  Currently, the CFIA's time standard for issuing Federal Produce Licenses is 3 – 6 weeks. 
Many, however, are issued within two weeks, but are dependent on the completeness of the 
company's application. At this time, over 85% of  all Canadian dealers have chosen to become 
FFVDRC members and therefore are exempt from licensing requirements (see no. 3 above). 
 (b) Federal Produce Licenses cannot be granted immediately upon request.  (c) There are no limitations as to when a co mpany may apply for a Federal Produce License. 
 
(d) CFIA  is the only administrative body to asse ss a CFIA Produce Licence application. 
 
8. When assessing a dealer for a licence, refusal would be based on the regulatory requirements 
and responsibilities not being met (as per the app lication documentation or through a complaint 
received by the CFIA).  The Licensing and Arbitr ation Regulations also provide for the ability to 
require applicants to post a bond or other security to  ensure that they will comply with the terms and 
conditions established under their licence. If a li cence was refused, the applicant would be made 
aware of the reason(s) for the refusal. The CFIA polic y allows for an appeal to the refusal to issue a 
licence.  The appeal is assessed based on evidence that the dealer will comply with the terms and 
conditions of a licence issued pursuant to the Licensing and Arbitration Regulations.  
 Eligibility of importers to apply for licence 
 
9. Any person or company with a Canadian place of  business is eligible to apply for a licence to 
import fresh produce.    Documentational and other requireme nts for application for licence 
 
10. An application for a Produce Licence must be  submitted containing information such as the 
company name, the representatives in positions of r esponsibility, a description of the type of business 
and products the company will be importing, and an swer questions pertaini ng to the past business  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/11 
 Page 29 
 
 
  practices.  See Application for a Produce Licen se at: http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/for 
/pdf/c0985e.pdf.     A first-time applicant must also provide the CF IA with a copy of the documents listed below: 
 
- A lease agreement for any facilities rented; 
- Incorporation papers, if the applicant is a corporation; and - A letter of reference from a financial in stitution where they have recently done 
business. 
 
11. Imported fresh produce must be accompanied by a Confirmation of Sale form 
http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/fo r/pdf/c3885e.pdf at point of en try into Canada. A Confirmation 
of Sale form is not required to be presented at point of entry if information is submitted through 
Electronic Data Interchange (EDI).  
 In the case of apples, onions, and potatoes, ther e is a requirement of an inspection certificate 
certifying that the product meets Canada's import requirements in the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable 
Regulations of the Canada Agricultural Products Act.     The CFIA recognizes the USDA certificates fo r apples, onions and potatoes as well as 
inspection certificates for apples prepared by the Ne w Zealand Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries. 
Apples, onions and potatoes imported from other countries will be subject to inspection by the CFIA 
at time of arrival.  12. The annual fee for an import licence for fresh  fruit and vegetables, where applicable, is 
CAN$1,075. 
 
 For apples, onions and potatoes arriving without a recognized inspection certificate, CFIA fee for inspection is CAN$1.37 per 100 kg (minimum CAN$68.00).  13. There is no deposit or advance payment required for a fresh produce licence.  A bond may be a prerequisite if it is deemed necessary to secure a guarantee that the dealer will comply with the 
terms and conditions of a licence. 
 
Conditions of licensing 
 
14. A fresh Produce Licence is valid for 12 m onths. A renewal process is initiated by CFIA, 
whereby a Produce Licence renewal package is sent to  the licensee one month prior to the expiry. 
 
15. There is no penalty for non-utilization of licence. 
 16. Licences are not transferable.  
17. If a condition exists where a suspension or can cellation occurs, a dealer, after being given an 
opportunity to be heard, may be required to post a bond in order to have their licence reinstated and to 
continue operating. 
 
Other procedural requirements 
 
18. Any additional administrative procedures relating to the importation of goods under the 
Canadian Agricultural Products Act would be the re sponsibility of the importer. For example, certain 
products are also subject to requirements unde r the Plant Protection Act and Regulations.   
 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/11 
Page 30  
 
  19. Not applicable. 
 E. ENDANGERED
 SPECIES 
Outline of system 
 
1. By virtue of the Convention on Internationa l Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and 
Flora (CITES), of which Canada is a member, spec imens of such species and their by-products are 
listed on Schedule I established under the Wild An imal and Plant Protection and Regulation of 
International and Interprovincial Trade Act (WAP PRIITA) and subject to licensing. Species which 
may be harmful to Canadian ecosystems if ever re leased to the wild, are listed in Schedule II of 
WAPPRIITA and are also subject to licensing. 
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing 
 
2. The purpose of this coverage is: 
 
(a) to place a strict limitation on trade in speci mens and by-products of species classified as 
endangered or harmful to Canadian ecosystems; 
 (b) to establish a system of monitoring on speci mens and by-products su sceptible to becoming 
endangered through the mechanism of back-to-back licensing; and 
 
(c) to allow individual countries to exerci se surveillance on importation in other countries 
specimens and by-products of species which are considered endangered by the exporting 
country only. 
 
3. The system applies to endangered species or iginating in and exported from all countries. 
 4. The purpose of the licensing system is to allow importation in endangered species and their 
by-products in internationally agr eed circumstances and, in the case of species in Schedule II, where 
there are sufficient safeguards and secu rity to prevent escapes to the wild. 
 
5. Licensing is effected by regulations made  under the WAPPRIITA. Individual products are not 
designated in the Act. Endangered species were placed in Schedules I and II, established by the 
Governor-in-Council to implement an intergovern mental arrangement or commitment (see No. 1 
above).  Procedures 
 6.I. Information as to the formalities for comply ing with the requirements of this control is 
published in the Canada Gazette, in press releas es and in Notices to Importers distributed to 
associations and traders and, in addition, ava ilable upon request from the Department of the 
Environment. 
 
 Other questions under I, and II, III, IV, V, VI , VII, VIII, IX, X and XI are not applicable. 
 7.(a) Individual import permits can be applied for at  least 60 days prior to the expected date of 
arrival and are not granted retrospectively. 
 
(b) An individual import permit is normally grante d after a review period of 2-6 weeks provided 
the criteria for issuing a permit are met. 
  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/11 
 Page 31 
 
 
  (c) Not applicable. 
 (d) Permit applications are processed by the CI TES Management Authority of the Department of 
Environment Canada. 
 
8. If the criteria have not been met, the applicant will be informed.  In su ch event, the applicant 
may request reconsideration by providing new information.  9. Citizenship and residency are not criteria.  Documentational and other requireme nts for application for licence 
 
10. The importer is required to provide all the information requested under the Convention, the 
Act and regulations depending on the ty pe of species he intends to import. 
 
- Not applicable. 
- As stated above.  
CITES documents issued by the appropriate CITES authorities in the country of origin or in 
any subsequent re-exporting country, must accompany all applications.  Products arriving in Canada 
without a duly authentic CITES export permit will not be cleared by Canada Customs and are subject 
to seizure. 
 11. Documents as in the response to Question 10; and the customs entry forms are required. 
 12. No fees. 
 
13. N/A.  
Conditions of licensing 
 
14. CITES import permits are valid for 6 months fro m the date of issue.  The period of validity 
may be extended by the issu ance of a replacement permit. 
 15. No.  16. No. 
 
17. No.  
Other procedural requirements 
 
18. No. 
 
19. Not applicable.  
VIII.  EXPORT AND IMPORT OF ROUGH DIAMONDS ACT 
Canada wishes to inform the Committee on Im port Licensing that the notification submitted 
under Article 7.3 of the Agreement, containe d in the document G/LIC/N/3/CAN/10 dated 
18 November 2011 remains valid for the year 2012. 
 
__________