Dear IPSC Quebec member.
As most of you already know, the Trudeau government is implementing and revising several laws concerning the possession, transport and use of firearms.
As of August 19, 2022, you must have an import permit to return from shooting competitions with your handguns outside of Canada. This process is explained by this advisory from Global Affairs Canada (https://bit.ly/3AabNmE).
Global Affairs Canada is adamant that a material license is required. The Canada Border Services Agency is more vague on the subject and refers to the Global Affairs Canada site (https://bit.ly/3KefRqC). To avoid problems at customs, we advise all our members to follow the procedure detailed on the Global Affairs Canada website.
For your return to Canada, you must have the following documents in your possession: Restricted Possession and Acquisition License (RPAL), your registration certificates, your authorization to transport (ATT) from customs to your residence and the import permit (new document required as of August 19)
How to obtain an import permit
There are several ways to apply for an import permit. Unfortunately, it is currently not possible to apply online.
Option 1 :
Mail Form 1466 along with a check for import charges. The fee is $19 if the value of your firearms is between $1,000 and $5,000 (note that the fee is $15 if the gun is under $1,000; the fee is $23 if the value of the weapon is between $5,000 and $10,000) (https://bit.ly/3QDwjTw)
Option 2 :
Apply for an export and import number under the Export and Import Permits Act. The benefit of having a number is that it will make it easier to obtain future permits and you can open a credit card payment account so you can quickly and easily pay for an import permit without having to wait for arrival check by mail. An EIPA number is free (form attached)
Once you have an LLEI number, you can complete a Payment Authorization for the Purchase of Import and Export Permits (form attached). This form must be faxed to the Bureau du Cassier at 819-934-0227 or emailed to ac.cg1702153536.lano1702153536itanr1702153536etni@1702153536eciff1702153536osrei1702153536hsac1702153536
Then you can submit your completed Form 1466 (form attached).
Note that you will need the 4-digit code for the point of entry where you are returning to Canada (https://bit.ly/3KguNEG) and the 14-digit commodity code (the code for semi-automatic pistols is 93020000200200 ). When submitting your completed Form 1466, also attach a copy of the front and back of your Possession and Acquisition License as well as copies of your registration certificates. The LLEI application and completed Form 1466 can be emailed to: ac.cg1702153536.lano1702153536itanr1702153536etni@1702153536ait.d1702153536eec-l1702153536ocxe1702153536
Note 1: It is your responsibility to do your research. This article is for the information of our members only and it is the responsibility of each individual to ensure that they meet the changing requirements of the Government of Canada.
Note 2: Thanks to Michael Mahoney for explaining the process in detail on the IPSC Ontario forum.
Note 3: This article only applies for return to Canada with your firearms. When leaving, the requirements are different depending on the country you will be visiting. For example, in the United States you will need to have in your possession a 6NIA form approved by the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) as well as an authorization to transport from the Canadian Chief Firearms Officer to travel from your home to the border crossing.
Application for an Export and Import Permit Act (EIPA) File Number
IPSC Quebec Board