Importing and exporting goods in and out of Canada requires paperwork called permits issued by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA). This comprehensive guide will walk you through the key steps for applying online for import and export permits so your shipments clear customs without delays.
Whether you’re a small business shipping a few items internationally or a large company importing containers of goods, following proper procedures is crucial. We’ll break the permit application process down into simple sections so you can get your papers in order and keep trade moving. Let’s get started!
Why Permits Are Needed
Before we dive into the application itself, it helps to understand why permits exist in the first place. In short, they give the CBSA visibility and control over what enters and exits the country. Permits:
- Ensure imported goods meet Canadian regulations
- Confirm proper duties and taxes will be paid
- Help compile trade statistics
- Facilitate cargo screening and risk assessment
While permits may seem like red tape, they’re essential for orderly and lawful border procedures. They also protect public safety and collect much-needed tax revenue.
What Kinds of Permits Are There?
The CBSA issues dozens of different import and export permits covering everything from steel pipes to live animals. But for our purposes, the main categories are:
- Commercial permits – For regular shipments connected to a business
- Casual permits – For personal and informal shipments
- Blanket permits – For frequent shipments of the same goods
We’ll focus on commercial permits here since those are most common for actively importing and exporting goods across the Canadian border.
What Information Will I Need?
Preparing in advance will make applying for permits much easier. At a minimum, gather details on:
- Goods being shipped
- Buyer, seller, importer and exporter identities
- Transport method and customs broker
- Country of origin and destination
- Shipment contents, quantities, values
Having those basics handy means you can breeze through the application forms.
How to Apply for an Import or Export Permit
Ready to get that import or export permit submitted? The CBSA only accepts online applications through its new Permit Electronic System (PERMITS). So let’s dive into the steps:
Step 1: Create a GCKey Account
Before accessing PERMITS, you’ll need a secure GCKey account from the Government of Canada. This username and password combo verifies your identity and allows access to many government systems.
Signing up takes just a few minutes if you have basic details like your Canadian banking info, tax records, driver’s license, etc. Once registered, make note of your GCKey username and password.
Step 2: Access PERMITS and Register
Now we can finally get to PERMITS! This platform handles all import and export license applications for review by CBSA officers.
As a first-time user, you’ll need to click “Register” and create a PERMITS account connected to your existing GCKey login. Follow the steps to get your account established.
Step 3: Start a New Permit Application
Congratulations, you now have access to PERMITS! Locate and click on the “Apply for a Permit” link to kick things off. This will launch a questionnaire to determine exactly which permit fits your situation.
Answer each question carefully so it gives you the right application form. Questions will cover topics like:
- Requesting an import or export permit
- One-time or recurring shipments
- Types of goods being shipped
- Countries involved
And more. The system will select the optimal permit type and serve up the associated application based on your precise shipment scenario.
Hot tip: If you’re still unsure what permit you need, use the Self-Assessment Eligibility Tool for personalized guidance.
Step 4: Complete the Permit Application Form
Now comes the fun part…filling out the actual permit application!
The forms are all standardized and digital to make the process smooth. You’ll be asked for info like:
- Applicant details
- Exporter, importer and broker details
- Full shipment descriptions
- Origin and destination
- Total values and weights
- Intended use
And more. Provide complete and accurate responses at each step. The system will prompt you if any required fields are missed.
Some application forms have additional attachments for items like supplier invoices that must also be uploaded. So be sure to have all documents for your goods handy when applying.
Step 5: Pay the Processing Fee
Once the application is submitted, you’ll need to pay a small administrative processing fee. Most permits cost around $20 – $30 but double check your exact amount.
These fees help fund operation of the PERMITS system and speed up application review. You can pay the charges through online banking or credit card before the system begins assessing your request.
And that does it! After paying, sit back and wait for a response.
What’s Next? Timelines, Decisions, Conditions & More
You’ve applied for your import or export permit online…now what happens? Here’s an overview of what goes on after you click submit:
- Wait times – Review times range widely from hours to weeks depending on permit type, backlogs, and application accuracy. Fast and complete submissions are prioritized.
- Assessment – CBSA officers scrutinize all details of the requested permit and proposed shipments. You may be contacted for clarification during assessment.
- Decisions – Once reviewed, officers can approve permits as submitted, request changes, impose conditions, or deny applications if unqualified.
- Validity Periods – Most permits authorize multiple shipments for durations between 1 week and 3 years before renewal is required. Longer blanket permits are available.
- Shipment Inspection – Having a permit doesn’t guarantee entry. Shipments can still face added CBSA scrutiny upon arrival to the border.
The key is being responsive throughout. Check PERMITS and your email often so you don’t miss updates or requests from assessing officers. Replying promptly keeps applications moving through review quickly.
Helpful Tips for Hassle-Free Permitting
You now know the core steps for securing permits through the PERMITS portal. Making the most of the system boils down to simple reliability:
✔️ Apply early – File import/export permits several weeks in advance of needing them. Last minute applications cause delays.
✔️ Be responsive – Check notifications and quickly answer CBSA questions to prevent hang ups.
✔️ Provide complete/accurate responses – Incorrectly or vaguely described shipments require deeper assessment, so give all necessary details.
✔️ Know your business – Frequent importers and exporters qualify for faster blanket permits by demonstrating knowledge of their supply chain dynamics.
Mastering permits does take some upfront effort but soon becomes routine for actively trading businesses. You’ve got this!
Other Permit Resources
We’ve covered core basics of online permit applications here, but further help is available directly from the CBSA:
- PERMITS Training Portal – self-paced tutorials for using system features
- Contact Center – talk to CBSA agents with import/export questions
- CBSA Regional Offices – in-person support from local permit experts
And you can always revisit the CBSA permits homepage for the most up-to-date info as policies adjust over time.
Conclusion
We did it! You now have a solid grasp of Canada’s import and export permitting processes. Applying through PERMITS should feel far less intimidating.
The key takeaways are:
- Permits are mandatory for legal commercial trade
- Prepare details on your shipments before starting applications
- Create GCKey and PERMITS accounts to access the system
- Respond quickly if CBSA agents contact you during review
- Refresh permits before their expiration dates
Stay organized, plan ahead, and don’t hesitate to ask for help when unsure. You’ve got this! Here’s to smooth sailing through the permitting process.
