What is not allowed to bring to Canada?

While Canada is a welcoming country, there are strict regulations when it comes to what items are allowed to be brought into the country. It is important for travelers to familiarize themselves with these restrictions to avoid any potential legal issues or fines. It is best to consult with Canadian authorities if you have any doubt about an item you are planning to bring with you.

Cannabis

Transporting cannabis across the border in any form, including THC or CBD oils, is illegal without a permit or exemption from Health Canada. This applies regardless of the amount, medical documents, or origin of the cannabis. Only Health Canada has the authority to issue import/export permits, which are limited to medical, scientific, or industrial hemp purposes. Importers with Health Canada authorization should refer to Customs Notice 18-19 for calculating cannabis duty. Declaring cannabis possession at the Canadian border is required. Taking cannabis out of Canada is also prohibited and can result in criminal charges.

Weapons

One of the items that are strictly prohibited from being brought into Canada is weapons, including firearms, ammunition, and any type of illegal knife. Only individuals with proper authorization and a valid permit can bring firearms into the country.

A list of prohibited fire arms.

Food, plants and animals

Food items that pose a risk to Canada’s agriculture and plant life, such as fresh fruits, vegetables, plants, and soil, are banned due to the potential presence of harmful pests and diseases that could harm Canada’s environment and ecosystem.

It is also illegal to bring in live birds, bird products, and by-products from states affected by Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza. Be sure to check the latest list of affected states before importing.

Effective September 28, 2022, the import of commercial dogs from high-risk rabies countries into Canada is prohibited. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency will not issue import permits and the Canada Border Services Agency will refuse entry to these dogs. This measure is in place until further notice.

Consumer products

The partial list of prohibited consumer products include baby walkers, balloon blowing kits, infant self-feeding devices, jequirity beans, lawn darts with elongated tips, relight candles, Yo-Yo balls.

Check also the partial list of regulated products. There is also a list of the latest recalls and safety alerts regarding consumer products.

Other goods

Additionally, a permit or written authorization may be required for the import of certain goods into Canada, including health products and prescription drugs, antiques or cultural objects with historical significance to their origin, as well as explosives, fireworks, and certain types of ammunition.