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The Lost Target
A web based news service
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Bringing Firearms Into Canada
Non-Resident
Guidance provided by: Joe Potosky - The Lost Target
Quick Page Links
US Customs
Canadian Customs
Identification
Criminal records
Firearms Borrowed in Canada
Firearm Users Younger than 18
World Police & Fire Games
Buying a Firearm in Canada
Canadian Firearms License (PAL)
Side Notes
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Visitors may import non-restricted firearms (shotgun/rifle) into Canada for legitimate purposes:
- sporting or hunting use during hunting season;
- use in competitions;
- in-transit movement (i.e., moving in the most direct route possible from Point A to Point B) through Canada; or
- personal protection against wildlife in remote areas of Canada, as long as the customs officer is satisfied that the circumstances warrant the firearm being imported.
When entering Canada with a firearm a "Nonresident Firearm Declaration" must be completed.
- The declaration is available at all border crossings.
- The declaration process can be completed in under twenty minutes.
- The declaration is good for 60 days and will cost $25 Canadian, paid at point of entry.
- Only under special circumstances will handguns be allowed and those allowed must be pre-approved.
1. To speed the process it's recommended you download and fill out the declaration prior to arrival.
2. You can import 200 rounds duty free for hunting purposes, or up to 1,500 rounds duty free for use at a recognized competition.
3. Stop at US Customs: If firearms or other high value items have not been previously registered with US Customs, residents of the U.S. must first stop at American Customs prior to entering Canada and complete Customs Form 4457.
4. Identification: If a citizen of the United States, you don't need a passport or passport card to enter Canada; however, you will need a government issued photo ID, such as a drivers license. Also, have in your possession proof of citizenship; birth certificate, certificate of citizenship, or naturalization, or a Certificate of Indian Status. When flying, a Passport is required to return to the US.
A Passport or Passport Card for land travel to re-enter the U.S. is not a requirement for 2008
You will require Proof of Citizenship!
5. Warning: If you have been arrested at any time, to include DUI, read the following; Criminal Record
6. Canada Firearms Centre: Gun Users Visiting Canada 
You must be at least 18 years old to bring a firearm into Canada.
It's only valid for the person who signs the declaration and for those firearms listed on the declaration. If you come with others who will be using firearms in Canada, you will each need to meet these requirements.
The Non-resident Firearm Declaration processed at the point of entry will be valid for 60 days.
When you arrive in Canada with a Firearm Declaration and you plan on being here beyond the 60-day period, you can receive an extension to your Declaration from the Chief Firearms Office for the province you are visiting. To extend your Declaration, call the Canadian Firearm Center and they will connect you. This extension must be granted prior to the 60-day expiry and requires no additional fee.
Restricted firearms.
Certain weapons (handguns) are restricted and may only be imported for the purpose of attending an approved shooting competition or target practice at an approved shooting club or range. Get in touch with the host club well in advance of the scheduled event, so arraignments can be made. You will need an Authorization to Transport before you can enter Canada. You must obtain this authorization in advance from the Chief Firearms Officer of the Canadian province or territory you will be visiting. This authorization will permit you to transport your restricted firearms between specified places within Canada.
Restricted firearms may not be imported for hunting or personal protection. Chief Firearms Officers will not generally issue authorizations to allow restricted firearms to be moved in transit through Canada. Restricted firearms include semi-automatic firearms with barrels less than 18.5 inches (460 mm) long, all handguns that do not fall into the prohibited category and semi-automatic weapons that are designed or adapted to be fired when reduced to an overall length of less than 26 inches (660 mm). Firearms declared Prohibited in Canada (including .25 or .32 calibre handguns, and/or having a barrel length of 105mm or less) cannot enter Canada under any circumstances.
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 US Customs
Residents of U.S. - Prior to Departing the United States
If firearms or other high value items have not been registered with US Customs, stop at American Customs prior to entering Canada and complete Customs Form 4457.
DO NOT BRING FIREARMS INTO THE CUSTOMS STATION
UNLESS REQUESTED
The form may be processed ahead of time and remains valid for re-importation of the registered articles for as long as the document is legible. The certificate is not transferable. It takes only a few minutes to complete the form. Customs will require make, model, and serial number.
If you live near an International Airport, U.S. Customs at the airport can sign-off on this form.
If you must stop at U.S. Customs on the day of crossing, add twenty minutes to your planned crossing time!
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A web-based news service for gun enthusiasts
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A web-based news service for gun enthusiasts
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Canadian Customs
1. To speed up the process it's recommended you pre-fill out the required paperwork prior to arriving at the border.
a. Download nonresident Firearm Declaration Form (909 E/F)
b. When you arrive at Canadian Customs, declare your firearm and ammunition.
c. You will be directed into the customs building
DO NOT BRING FIREARMS INTO THE BUILDING UNLESS REQUESTED!!!
2. It's up to you to convince the agent that you have a valid reason to have a firearm.
- It's recommended you have a shoot program or shoot magazine that lists the shoot. If a member of a Canadian club, have your membership card available.
- Hunters should have their hunting license or receipt from an outfitter.
- If visiting a club or friends to target shoot, have club name or friends address information.
- Travel to Alaska from Washington is common and should not present a problem. Hand guns will not be allowed!
3. You are required to present a photo ID (drivers license or other official government photo ID).
4. A registration number will be placed on the application. Every time you enter Canada, the Canada Border Services Agency will complete Section E and issue a new confirmation number.
5. Once the form is processed you will be required to pay $25 Canadian. Most border crossings accept credit cards. Your credit card company will handle the exchange rate automatically. Using a credit card in Canada normally results in the best exchange rate.
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Pre-processing Non-Resident Firearm Declaration
Pre-processing of the Non-Resident Firearm Declaration (form 909 EF) is available through Customs offices at some high-traffic land border and airport entry points. To take advantage of this service, you must enter Canada at one of these sites.
Pre-processing Points of Entry and Information
Please contact Customs officials ahead of time at the most appropriate site to you for details of the process.
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A web-based news service for gun enthusiasts
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Identification
If you are a citizen of the United States, you do not need a passport to enter Canada; however, you should carry proof of your citizenship such as a birth certificate, certificate of citizenship or naturalization or a Certificate of Indian Status, as well as a photo ID. If you are a permanent resident of the United States, you must bring your permanent resident card (i.e. green card) with you.
If you are travelling with minors and you are not their parent/guardian, you should have written permission from the parent/guardian authorizing the trip. The letter should include addresses and telephone numbers of where the parents or guardian can be reached and identify a person who can confirm that the children are not being abducted or taken against their will.
Entering the U.S.
If flying, you require a passport to re-enter the US.
If driving...
CURRENTLY (2008):
Beginning January 31, 2008, U.S. and Canadian citizens 19 years and older who enter the U.S. at land and sea ports of entry from within the Western Hemisphere will need to present government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license as proof of identity, along with proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate or naturalization certificate, or a passport. Children age 18 and under will be able to enter with proof of citizenship.
Children age 18 and under will need to present a birth certificate, naturalization certificate or a passport to enter the U.S.
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A web-based news service for gun enthusiasts
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Criminal Records
Individuals with criminal records wishing to enter Canada can apply for a waiver. This should be done 3 - 4 weeks in advance of the intended visit. It should be noted that Driving Under the Influence convictions are considered a criminal offense in Canada. Individuals with criminal records without waivers can be refused entry. Contact the nearest port of entry Canada Immigration office for more information.
In the interests of Homeland Security, Canada and the USA have been sharing information on criminal records. In many cases this information is tied to driver's licence records passport numbers and photo identification software. If a person has a criminal record, customs personnel easily obtain this information, and entry into Canada may not be permitted. DUI/DWIs as old as 20 years have stopped people at the border, even if they did not spend so much as one day in jail.
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The Lost Target
A web-based news service for gun enthusiasts
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Firearms Borrowed in Canada
You do not need a license if you remain under the direct and immediate supervision of a licensed adult (aged 18 or older).
Unlicensed non-residents who will not be under direct supervision must obtain a Temporary Borrowing License. The Borrower's form must be completed before entering Canada and a sponsors signature will be required. Application for a Non-resident Temporary Borrowing Licence.
Please note, a confirmed Non-Resident Firearms Declaration does not currently permit you to borrow firearms in Canada.
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The Lost Target
A web-based news service for gun enthusiasts
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Firearm Users Younger than 18
You cannot acquire a firearm by any means, including as a gift, nor can you bring a firearm into Canada. However, you may use firearms in certain cases
Note:
If you do not have a Minor's Licence, you can still use firearms of any class so long as you are under the direct and immediate supervision of someone who is licensed to possess that class of firearm. This generally means that the licensed person must be close enough to you to be able to take immediate action to prevent you from doing anything with the firearm that is unsafe or against the law.
This provision affects cadets or members of other youth organizations who receive instruction in the use of firearms or who take part in target practice. It also applies to young people who go hunting or who use restricted or prohibited firearms in organized shooting competitions.
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The Lost Target
A web-based news service for gun enthusiasts
The Lost Target
A web-based news service for gun enthusiasts
The Lost Target
A web-based news service for gun enthusiasts
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Canadian Firearms License (PAL) and American Citizens
An American can apply for a five year Canadian Possession and Acquisition License (PAL), and highly recommended if you plan on making numerous trips into Canada. With this license you have no need for the Nonresident Firearm Declaration Form (909 E/F).
The first step is to complete the Canadian Firearms Safety Course. Classroom attendance is not required, as long as you pass the written test (multiple choice). Active shooters should pass the test with little problem. A fee is charged for taking the test. Check with a Canadian club or outfitter for testing locations/dates.
After you completed the test/course and received your Firearm Safey Course card, you will process the same application as do Canadian citizens, Application for a Possession and Acquisition Licence
It's highly recommended you submit your license application with a letter from your local police department, on department letterhead, stating your a citizen in good standing. In my area, the sheriff supplied the letter after he ran my drivers license through the system. Don't send the original letter, just a copy.
It took three months from start to finish to receive my PAL (license).
Registering Firearms:
After you receive your PAL, your required to have your non-registered firearm(s) verified as part of the registration process.
To start the process, complete and mail the Application to Register Firearms (for Individuals) CFC 998 EF.
Note 1: In the area where it asks for a verifyers #, write "Non Resident"
Note 2: You can fax it to 1-877-699-4928 (from Canada or the US)
Note 3: If you previously had a Nonresident Firearm Declaration, and it's still current, you will be able to have your firearm(s) verified without mailing the "Application to Register Firearms", as you can bring your firearms into the country and have them verified and then complete the registration via the interent.
They will call and ask for addtional information and/or complete the verification and registration process, and if satisfied, mail you your firearm registration(s).
One Person's Experience/Advice - May 19, 2005
1. You must go to the Canadian Firearms Center on-line and down load form CFC 998 EF.
2. Complete the form and where it asks for a verifiers # write in "Non Resident" Then Mail it to: Central Processing Site, P.O. Box 1200, Miramichi, NB E1N 5Z3.
In a few weeks you will receive a call from a processor and confirm the information that you provided. I included a copy of my PAL and a business card to make it easier for them to contact me. If the gun is a standard issue model it will then be verified and a certificate will be issued to you by mail. I requested they fax me a copy in case I wanted to cross the border before the original arrived in the mail. I must say that the people that I spoke to at the CFC were friendly, helpfull and professional. In my case the gun was not a standard issue gun. It was a Beretta with custom 32 BBLS that were not standard on this gun. They had to create a new database entry.
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The Lost Target
A web-based news service for gun enthusiasts
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Side Notes
- Visitors will be able to purchase ammunition with Canadian firearms license, a confirmed firearms declaration form or a Temporary Borrowing License.
- Transport all firearms unloaded. If you are transporting them in a vehicle, they must be kept out of sight in a part of a vehicle that is kept locked (the trunk, if there is one), unless the vehicle is supervised by an adult. - Rules for Storing, Transporting and Displaying
If you have not traveled to Canada before:
Gasoline is expensive ($1 more per gallon), gas up prior to entering the country. They price by the quart (1 liter = 1.056 quarts or 0.264 gallon)
You can use your credit card, the company will automatically do the exchange, and it will be reflected on your monthly bill.
Clubs may not give the best exchange rate -
Check with your auto insurance company, they may have to issue a permit to show your vehicle is insured while in Canada.
Contact your medical insurance company and obtain a toll free number to be used to authorize payment.
If not returning to Canada, spend all your Canadian money prior to leaving. U.S. bank fees for converting may be excessive.
Medical Insurance
The Department of State strongly urges Americans to consult with their medical insurance company prior to traveling abroad to confirm whether their policy applies overseas and if it will cover emergency expenses such as a medical evacuation. U.S. medical insurance plans seldom cover health costs incurred outside the United States unless supplemental coverage is purchased. Further, U.S. Medicare and Medicaid programs do not provide payment for medical services outside the United States. However, many travel agents and private companies offer insurance plans that will cover health care expenses incurred overseas, including emergency services such as medical evacuations.
When making a decision regarding health insurance, Americans should consider that many foreign doctors and hospitals require payment in cash prior to providing service and that a medical evacuation to the United States may cost well in excess of $50,000. Uninsured travelers who require medical care overseas often face extreme difficulties. When consulting with your insurer prior to your trip, please ascertain whether payment will be made to the overseas healthcare provider or if you will be reimbursed later for expenses that you incur. Some insurance policies also include coverage for psychiatric treatment and for disposition of remains in the event of death.
Automobile Radar Detectors
The Canadian provinces that DO NOT ban use of radar detectors are: Alberta, British Columbia, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Saskatchewan.
Pet
Pet Imports
Canada for Visitors
Information for Visitors to Canada
Duty-free Exemption - Returning to US:
US Customs - Know Before You Go
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The Lost Target
A web-based news service for gun enthusiasts
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Canadian Firearm Declaration: Download and complete. Good for 60 days. Cost $25 (Canadian). Visa & Master Card accepted. Wait until you arrive at point of entry to sign the form.
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Ammunition: You can import 200 rounds duty free for hunting purposes, or up to 1,500 rounds duty free for use at a recognized competition.
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U.S. Customs: If firearms have not been registered with US Customs, stop at American Customs prior to entering Canada and complete Customs Form 4457. This may be accomplished ahead of time at any U.S. Customs station, too include International airports.
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Criminal Record: Individuals with criminal records wishing to enter Canada can apply for a waiver. Driving Under the Influence convictions are considered a criminal offense in Canada.
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Handguns: Not allowed except under special circumstances and must receive prior approval. Self defense is not recognized as a reason. Traveling through to another U.S. state with a handgun will not be approved.
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Firearms Borrowed in Canada You do not need a licence if you remain under the direct and immediate supervision of a licensed adult (aged 18 or older).
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Selling a Firearm: Firearms you import temporarily, using a confirmed Non-Resident Firearm Declaration, must be taken back out of Canada.
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Auto Insurance: Your auto insurance company may have to issue a permit to show your vehicle is insured while in Canada.
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