Canada - Customs

Customs Rules for Yachts Arriving/Departing Canada

Arriving by Yacht:

Foreign recreational boaters must present themselves to the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) each time that they arrive in Canada. See Clearance for details.

Length of Stay:

The maximum vessel retention period in Canada without the payment of duty or taxes is normally 12 months and 18 months for repair. Extensions may be possible.

Non-resident visitors may leave their boats in Canada during the off-season without payment of duties only if repair or maintenance work is to be undertaken by a bona fide marina or service outlet during that time. Before leaving a boat, the owner must advise the local Customs office of the details and produce a copy of the work order, identifying the unit and showing the name and address of the owner, the type of work to be done, and the location where the work will be carried out.

See the CBSA website for more details.

Other Items:

• There are a number of restricted and prohibited goods that must be reported on arrival, although Customs will ask you what you have on board.
• All firearms must be declared to Customs on arrival and the necessary permits obtained (if required).
• See the CBSA website for more details.
• For more information on what you can bring into Canada, see guidelines by the Government here.

Last updated:  June 2024