Gun Permits

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.
• Import 200 rounds duty free for hunting purposes, or up to 1,500 rounds duty free for use at a recognized competition.

When entering Canada with a firearm a "Nonresident Firearm Declaration" must be completed.

The declaration is available at all border crossings, but can be downloaded and filled out prior to arrival.The declaration is good for 60 days. It cost $25 Canadian, paid at point of entry.
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. The extension must be granted prior to the 60-day expiry and requires no additional fee.

You must be at least 18 years old to bring a firearm into Canada. The declaration is only valid for the person who signs the declaration. You can be processed by Canadian Customs in under twenty minutes. Only under special circumstances will handguns be allowed and those allowed must be pre-approved. Firearms temporarily imported, using a confirmed Non-Resident Firearms Declaration, must be removed from Canada on your departure.

Prior to Entering Canada
Download the declaration. CAFC 909 Non-Resident Firearm Declaration Download
Fill out three copies. DO NOT sign the Form(s). Leave blank areas on the form that you don't understand.

If you have more then three firearms:
Continuation sheet (CAFC 910) - PDF

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 minutes to complete. Customs will require make, model, and serial number.

You can contact the regional U.S. Customs office in your region and arrange to have this done prior to your trip.

If you must stop at U.S. Customs on the day of crossing it can add anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes to your crossing time!