Canadian Custom Regulations. What's allowed and what's not?

Canadian Custom Regulations. What's allowed and what's not?

 

Canada takes strict measures to protect the nation and the citizens, by imposing rigid regulations on items that are forbidden from entering the country. The Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) ensures that potential risks associated with foods, plants, animals, and other goods are minimized. Before attempting to import items into Canada, it's essential for travelers to gather information to prevent potential issues. Failure to comply with regulations may lead to penalties, including fines, seizures, or prosecution.

 

Obtaining legal licenses or permits is often necessary, sometimes even for the items allows for entry. This applies to:

• Health products and prescribed drugs
• Antique or cultural objects and the country of origin
• Explosives, fireworks, and other type of ammunition

 

*Willing to Visit Canada? Y-Axis will guide you in step by step process.

 

Firearms

All the weapons and firearms must be declared upon entry into Canada. Anyone importing these firearms must have a valid reason which includes;

• Hunting during the hunting season
• Competition
• Repairing
• Transit movement
• Protection against wildlife

Visitors without a Canadian gun license for non-restricted firearms must fill out a Non-Resident Firearm Declaration form for a 60-day stay.

 

Cannabis

Despite cannabis legalization in Canada, importing cannabis in any form without a permit or exemption that is authorized by Health Canada will be a serious criminal offense. Travellers should be aware that cannabis goods, even if legal within Canada, are prohibited from crossing the border.

 

Explosives

Travelers in 2024 should stay updated on proposed revisions to the Explosives Regulations. Importing explosives into Canada requires strict adherence to regulations to ensure safety.

The proposed amendment includes list of banned components or controlled explosive precursor chemicals. Banned chemicals include;

• Calcium ammonium nitrate
• Hexamine
• Aluminium powder
• Acetone

 

Animals

Bringing companion animals, including dogs, into Canada may pose challenges based on the risk of dog rabies. Dogs at high risk for rabies are restricted from entering Canada. Import permits will not be issued for countries that are at severe risk of dog rabies.

 

Poultry Products

Import of certain chicken goods and products from the United States face restrictions due to the highly pathogenic avian influenza outbreaks in the country.

Restricted products arriving in Canada via courier or mail include

• Food from restaurants or leftovers
• Poultry and by products from farms or roadside
• Chicken products from backyards
• Meat products

Retail packaged and fit for human consumption poultry products labelled "Product of the USA" are allowed into Canada.

Allowed products include

• Raw eggs
• Vacuum packed raw chicken
• Rotisserie chicken
• Frozen chicken wings or strips
• Frozen turkeys
• Hard boiled eggs

Pet food such as cooked kibble or canned food containing avian ingredients can be imported as long as the traveler’s pet is with them. Travelers are not permitted to import raw pet food at any time.

 

Enforcement and Penalties

CBSA emphasizes that the restrictions vary depending upon the goods, nation of origin, and the place of import. These regulations aim to maintain safety and well-being of Canada. It is crucial for each traveler to declare any item before bringing them into Canada.

 

Violations of these regulations can result in fines of up to $1300, as well as any possible consequences. $500 for a minor violation, $800 for major violation, and $1,300 for a very serious violation will be applicable.

 

If you receive a warning along with a notice of violation, you have three options:

• Accept the warning and give up your right to appeal
• Submit a written request for a review by the minister and by the Canada Agricultural Review Tribunal facts of violation, within 30 days of the date on the notice of violation

 

Conclusion

Canada imposed these guidelines in order to safeguard the environment and citizens. Understanding Canadian customs regulations is vital for every traveler and to declare any item before entering the nation. Adherence to regulations is crucial to ensure a smooth entry into Canada and to avoid any potential risks or consequences. Travelers must stay informed and cooperate with the authorities to contribute to the overall safety and well-being of the nation.

 

Talk to Y-Axis, the world’s no. 1 overseas immigration company for more accurate and trusted information on Migrating to Canada!