WORLD TRADE  
ORGANIZATION  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/9 
18 October 2010 
 (10-5336) 
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 13 October 2010, is being circulated at the request of the delegation of Canada.  
_______________ 
 
 Introduction 
 
  Import licences are required for goods subject to  quantitative restrictions related to measures 
taken to safeguard domestic producers against injurious imports pursuant to either GATT 
Article XIX; for textiles and apparel goods for which a tariff preference level (TPL) is sought under 
the NAFTA; or international commitments (e.g. narc otics and endangered species of fauna and flora). 
Import controls, although not genera lly related to quantity, are also imposed on some products on 
grounds of public interest, or for monitoring pur poses.  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 quantity 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 been provided fo r questions 5, 8-10, 12-17 and 
19 of the Questionnaire. Replies to the remaining questions have been organized by separate product 
groups owing to difference in the procedures involved.  
                                                     
 
1 See G/LIC/3, Annex, for the Questionnaire. G/LIC/N/3/CAN/9 
Page 2  
 
   
TABLE OF CONTENTS  
 
I.
 CONTROLLED DRUGS AND SUBSTANCES ACT...........................................................3  
II. NATURAL HEALTH PRODUCTS REGULATIONS .........................................................3  
III. EXPLOSIVES ACT................................................................................................................. .3 
IV. NUCLEAR SAFETY AND CONTROL ACT........................................................................3  
A. NUCLEAR SUBSTANCES , PRESCRIBED EQUIPMENT AND PRESCRIBED INFORMATION ...............3  
V. NATIONAL ENERGY BOARD ACT ....................................................................................6  
A. NATURAL GAS............................................................................................................................6  
VI. EXPORT AND IMPORT  PERMITS ACT ............................................................................9  
VII. ANIMALS AND PLANTS .......................................................................................................9  
A. PLANT PROTECTION ACT .............................................................................................................9  
B. HEALTH OF ANIMALS ACT .........................................................................................................11  
C. FISH INSPECTION ACT ................................................................................................................14  
D. CANADA AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS ACT................................................................................16  
1. Dairy Product Regulations (as reflected in G/LIC/N/3/CAN/8/Add.1, dated 
19 April 2010)................................................................................................................. .........16  
2. The Licensing and Arbitration Re gulations (L&A Regulations) .......................................20  
E. ENDANGERED SPECIES ...............................................................................................................22  
  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/9 
 Page 3 
 
 
  I. CONTROLLED DRUGS AND SUBSTANCES ACT 
 No changes  with respect to this section in G/LIC/N/3/CAN/8, dated 16 October 2009. 
 
II. NATURAL HEALTH PRODUCTS REGULATIONS 
 No changes  with respect to this section in G/LIC/N/3/CAN/8, dated 16 October 2009. 
III. EXPLOSIVES ACT  
 No changes  with respect to this section in G/LIC/N/3/CAN/8, dated 16 October 2009. 
IV. NUCLEAR SAFETY AND CONTROL ACT 
A. NUCLEAR SUBSTANCES , PRESCRIBED EQUIPMENT AND PRESCRIBED INFORMATION  
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 regulat ory 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 prescr ibed information (technology). Under this system, 
any person proposing to conduct these activities in Ca nada must do so only in accordance with a 
licence, subject to the regulations under the Act. Licence application require ments are specified in 
regulations, in general in the General Nuclear Safety 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 w ill 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 oblig ations to which Canada has agreed. 
  Any person wishing to import a nuclear substance, prescribed equipment or prescribed information must obtain an import licence from the CNSC. Authority to import certain nuclear 
substances may be included in a licence to posse ss and use that nuclear substance, under general 
licensing provisions.  However import of cont rolled nuclear substances as defined in the Nuclear 
Non-proliferation Import and Export Control Regulations  (NNIECR) (SOR/2000-210) requires an 
import license issued pursuant to those regulations.  All controlled nuclear substances are prescribed 
as nuclear substances with respect to the import a nd export of those substances. Similarly, licensing 
authorization is required to impor t controlled nuclear equipment and information under the NNIECR.  
The Nuclear Safety and Control Act (NSCA) and its regulations are available through the CNSC 
website (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 Cana da has agreed regarding international control of 
the development, production and use of nuclear en ergy, including the non-proliferation of nuclear 
weapons and nuclear explosive devices. Nuclear subs tances are defined in the NSCA (section 2), and 
include uranium, thorium, plutonium, deuteriu m and their respective derivatives and compounds, 
radioactive nuclides, and substances that are prescrib ed by regulation as being capable of releasing G/LIC/N/3/CAN/9 
Page 4  
 
  nuclear energy or as being required for the producti on or use of nuclear energy. Additionally, the 
NNIECR define controlled nuclear substances, cont rolled nuclear equipment and controlled nuclear 
information that are subject to specific import a nd 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 oblig ations 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 re quirement 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 en sure that the nuclear substances, prescribed 
equipment and prescribed information are transferre d only to persons authorized to use them safely 
and securely, pursuant to the provisions of the NSCA  and its regulations. Licensing also enables the 
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 aut horized for import. The purpose of the regulatory 
controls on imports is to assure that the imported items are possessed only by qualified and authorized 
persons pursuant to the NSCA, and to assure compli ance 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 procedures and licensing application requirements are prescribe d 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 staff conducts risk-informed assessments of licence 
applications and supporting inform ation, 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 decisions. 
 
Procedures
 
 
6. Not applicable. Quantity and value restricti ons, 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 from time to  time be determined by Government policy. 
 7. (a) and (b) An import licence is normally issued within 3 weeks of receipt of the application but 
can be issued in a shorter time if warranted.   A license cannot be granted immediately upon 
request; a risk-informed assessment of an a pplication 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.  
Applications are made directly to the Co mmission.  The Commission has delegated the 
authority for making the licensing decision on im ports to a Designated Officer, pursuant to 
section 37 of the NSCA. 
  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/9 
 Page 5 
 
 
  8. The Designated Officer, acting on behalf of th e Commission, may refuse to issue a licence, or 
may revoke, suspend, 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 security; and 
requirements related to internationa l obligations to which Canada has agreed (section 24, NSCA).  In 
such cases, the NSCA provides the applicant or, as a ppropriate the licensee, the right to be heard by 
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 instituti ons are eligible to apply for an import license. 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 license issued by the CNSC for the possession and use of the nuclear substance being imported. 
The CNSC dos not publish a list of authorized importers.  Documentational and other require ments for application for licence
 
 
10. Information required on applications to im port 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 intended end-use lo cation; the number of any license to possess the 
substance, equipment or information; and, as appli cable, the measures that will be taken to facilitate 
Canada's compliance with certain international obliga tions.  An application form, with instructions for 
completion, is provided on the CNSC website (www.nuclearsafety.gc.ca).  
 
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 fees or administra tive charges associated w ith 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 depends on the nature of the import, with a default term of 1 year.  The 
validity of a licence may be extended th rough amendment upon written application. 
 15. No; there is no penalty for non-utilization of a licence. 
 
16. No; licences are not transferable between importers.  17. (a)  Not applicable.  
(b) The CNSC may include in an import licen ce any condition it considers necessary for the 
purposes of the NSCA, including compliance reporting conditions. 
 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/9 
Page 6  
 
  Other procedural requirements
 
 
18. Applications to import items that are subject  to the provisions of bilateral non-proliferation 
agreements that Canada has entere d into with nuclear trading partners, for the purpose of assuring that 
Canada's nuclear non-proliferation policy requirement s are met, may require the CNSC to implement 
administrative procedures with regulatory counterparts in the exporting country. There are no 
additional requirements placed on importers as a r esult of this, but implementing these bilateral 
procedures can require additional time to co mplete the processing and assessment of import 
applications.  
19. Not applicable. 
V. NATIONAL ENERGY BOARD ACT 
Note
:  There have been minor changes to Canada's import licensing regime for Natural Gas as 
described in document G/LIC/N/3/CAN/8, Notification under Article 7.3 of the Agreement on Import Licensing Procedures. The changes, in secti ons 1 and 11 of the ques tionnaire, relate to 
the sources and locations of information concer ning the National Energy Board (NEB) Act, 
regulations, rules and procedures. For convenien ce, the entire questionnaire for Natural Gas is 
provided below.  
 
A. N
ATURAL GAS 
Outline of system  
 
1. The National Energy Board (NEB) Act  and the Part VI Regulati ons 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 au thorized by both licences and orde rs.  Licences are issued for long-
term imports while orders are used in the case of  long-term small volume im ports, emergency imports 
or and short-term large volume imports.  An application is made to the Board for import 
authorization.  In the case of a licence, the app lication will be set down for a public hearing.  No 
licence is effective until approved by the Governo r-in-Council.  The issuance of an import order 
requires the approval of the Board and does not require a public hearing.   The NEB Act is available at: http://Laws.jus tice.gc.ca/eng/StatutesbyTitle/N.html.  The NEB 
Part VI (Oil and Gas) Regulati ons [SOR/91-7] and the NEB Expor t and Import Reporting Regulations 
[SOR/95-563] are found at: http://Laws.justice.gc. ca/eng/RegsbyTitle/N.html.  These documents are 
available in pdf and html format a nd can be downloaded free of charges. 
 
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  have been from the United States. Liquid Natural 
Gas (LNG) shipments commenced in 2009.  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/9 
 Page 7 
 
 
  4. The purpose of licensing is to ensure that long- term imports of gas are in the public interest, 
having regard to the equitable distribution of gas in Canada.  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 by assessing the 
impact on Canadians of the proposed import, i.e., impact on gas industry and consumers, 
distribution of gas in Canada, etc. 
 V. For processing license applications a public heari ng is required.  The le ngth of time to process 
a licence application is approximately four months  or longer.  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 im port orders is two to six weeks or more. 
 VI. 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 authorization and the commencement of the import.   
 
VII. The prospective importer has to approach onl y one administrative organ, 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 multilate ral arrangements besides the Canada-U.S. Free 
Trade Agreement and the North American Free Trade Agreement. 
 
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 th e Board.  A licence requires 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.  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/9 
Page 8  
 
  Eligibility of importers to apply for licence
 
 
9. Any person is eligible to apply for an import license.    
Documentational and other require ments for application for licence
 
 
10. The National Energy Board must have regard to  all considerations that  appear to it to be 
relevant and shall have regard to the equ itable distribution of gas in Canada.  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 im port authorization.  Section 5 of the Part VI 
Regulations entitled "Information to be Furnished by  Applicant for Licence to Import Gas" sets out 
the information required to be filed by an applican t for a licence to import gas.  In addition, the 
National Energy Board may require further informati on.  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. In addition, applicants to im port LNG must comply with the NEB Part VI (Oil 
and Gas) Regulations by filing with the NEB in formation in accordance with the document entitled 
"Information to be Furnished by Applicants to Import LNG".  This document can be downloaded free 
of charge from the NEB web site at:  http://www.neb-one.gc.ca/clf-nsi/rpblctn/ctsndrgltn/ 
rrggnmgpnb/xprtsndmprt/050920ApplicantsImportLNG_e.pdf.  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.  
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.  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/9 
 Page 9 
 
 
  VI. EXPORT AND IMPORT PERMITS ACT 
 No changes  with respect to this section in G/LIC/N/3/CAN/8, dated 16 October 2009, 
covering both the general responses as well as specific responses by product group. 
VII. ANIMALS AND PLANTS 
Note :  There have been minor changes to the Canada 's import licensing regime for the Health of 
Animals Act (sections 4, 7, 8), the Fish Inspection Act (sections 2, 3, 7, 10, 11, 12), and the 
Canada Agricultural Products Act (sections  1, 9, 11), as described in document 
G/LIC/N/3/CAN/8, 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. 
 
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 Minister, on the basis of a pest risk assessment, may issue a permit for the importation of a plant pest, plants and plant products that are or could be infested with a plant pest or constitute or could c onstitute a biological obstacle to the control of a plant 
pest if, the Minister determines that every precau tion necessary can and will be taken to prevent the 
introduction into Canada or the spread with Canada of  a pest or biological obstacle to the control of a 
pest.  3. The system applies to plant pest (e.g., di sease cultures, insects), plants and plant products 
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 prod ucts imported in Canada 
conform to Canada's plant protection import require ments.  The permit system protects against the 
introduction 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-m ailed or faxed to the Integration Division of the Canadian G/LIC/N/3/CAN/9 
Page 10  
 
  Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). Once all re quired 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 days (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 Perm it Office, Plant Program Integration Division, 
Plant Health and Biosecurity 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/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 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;   G/LIC/N/3/CAN/9 
 Page 11 
 
 
  (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$10 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. 
 
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, reptiles (except turt les and their eggs), amphibians), semen (except 
canine), embryos, veterinary biologics, and certain  animal products and by -products depending on the G/LIC/N/3/CAN/9 
Page 12  
 
  species and country of origin.  For importation fro m the U.S., a permit is required for the following:  
semen (except for equine and canine), embryos, vete rinary biologics, psittacine birds other than pet 
birds, turtles, tortoises, skunks, foxes and racc oons, some ruminants and swine, honeybees., dogs 
(commercial shipments and for research) and ce rtain other animal products and by-products 
dependent on species. 
 
Purpose and coverage of licensing
 
 
2. See No.1 above. 
3. Imports are permitted only from countries whic h are free of serious animal diseases which 
may affect the species of animal or bird importe d.  However, certain animal 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.  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.  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 inspectio n 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 pos t-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. 
  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/9 
 Page 13 
 
 
  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) CFIA in consultation and in response to concer ns of Health Canada has agreed to refuse to 
issue import permits for certain species of animals because of the risk of zoonoses or 
communicable diseases common to human 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. 
 
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.  
12. Yes.  See CFIA Fees notice at:  http://www. inspection.gc.ca/english/reg/cfiaacia/feesfrais 
/feesfraise.shtml.  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. Varies from 
single entry shipment to multiple shipments over a one year period.   15. No. 
 
16. No.  17. See No. 6.  Other procedural requirements
 
 
18. Pre-import quarantine and testing may be required.  19. Not applicable. G/LIC/N/3/CAN/9 
Page 14  
 
  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. 
 
 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; 
                                                     
 
2 http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/ fssa/fispoi/import/pol/base.shtml#no41.  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/9 
 Page 15 
 
 
   - 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).  (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 require ments 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 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/9 
Page 16  
 
  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 descr ibed on the Fish Import Notification). 
 
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  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/9 
 Page 17 
 
 
  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 
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.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/9 
Page 18  
 
  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. 
 
 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 during 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 establishment including description of the location of the 
establishment in relation to adjacent facilities, 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 ava ilable 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 re quired to submit the following documents to the regional CFIA 
Import Service Centres (ISC) for processing: 
 - the Request for Release Approval (for chees e, import licence number indicated in the 
comments section) (CFIA/ACIA 5272);  
  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/9 
 Page 19 
 
 
  - 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:   (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. G/LIC/N/3/CAN/9 
Page 20  
 
  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.  
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.  It would require legislative a pproval 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. 
  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/9 
 Page 21 
 
 
  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 require ments 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 
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 institu tion where they have recently done business. 
 
11. Imported fresh produce must be accompanied by a Confirmation of Sale form. 
http://www.inspection.gc.ca/e nglish/for/pdf/c3885e.pdf. 
  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 re quired 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.  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/9 
Page 22  
 
  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.   
 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. 
  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/9 
 Page 23 
 
 
  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. 
 (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 require ments 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. 
 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/9 
Page 24  
 
  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. 
 
__________