Bringing a firearm into Canada? The rules changed January 1, 2001. Here are the answers to some of your questions…
How will this change in regulations affect me?
You will have to fill out a Non-Resident Firearm Declaration Form, unless you already have a five-year possession and acquisition license. The form will be your temporary firearms license while you are in Canada, and it is valid for 60 days (for a non-restricted firearm). To avoid delays, we advise that you fill it out before coming to the border.
Where can I get a copy of the form?
Forms are available at any Customs office, or you can call the Canadian Firearms Centre (CFC) at 1-800-731-4000 and a form will be mailed to you. You can also download a form (you will need three copies) from their Web site at: www.cfc-ccaf-gc-ca
Does the temporary license cost anything?
The fee is CDN$50, and is valid for a twelve month period. You can pay the firearms fee by cash, MasterCard, Visa, or personal check. Please note that personal checks will not be accepted unless drawn on a Canadian banking establishment. Checks should be made payable to the Receiver General of Canada.
What happens when I get to the border?
Show your completed firearm declaration to the customs officer. The customs officer may inspect your firearm(s). Once your form has been confirmed by the customs officer, and you pay the CDN$50 fee, it will become your temporary firearms license while you are in Canada. It is valid for 60 days (for a non-restricted firearm). Every time you bring a firearm into Canada, you must show your temporary license to a customs officer to obtain a new confirmation number.
What is a non-restricted firearm?
Non-restricted firearms include most long guns, shotguns, and rifles. If you are unsure about what class your firearm falls into, call the Canadian Firearms Centre at 1-800-731-4000 or visit their web site
What happens if I want to stay in Canada longer then 60 days?
You may extend your license by calling the Canadian Firearms Centre at 1-800-731-4000 and you will be transferred to the Chief Firearms Officer in the province you are visiting. There is no additional fee for extending your license.
For more information, contact:
Canadian Firearms Centre
284 Wellington Street
Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0H8
1-800-731-4000
506-624-5380
www.cfc-ccaf.gc.ca
canadian.firearms@justice.gc.ca
Canada Customs and Revenue Agency
1-800-461-9999
204-983-3500 or 506-636-5064
www.ccra-adrc.gc.ca