Licensing and Registration Requirements

Firearm owner and users in Canada need a valid firearms licence allowing them to possess firearms and a Canadian registration certificate for each firearm in their possession. A licence issued under Canada’s Firearms Act is different from a provincial hunting licence.

As a non-resident, you have two options for meeting the Canadian licensing and registration requirements

Option 1 

You can declare your firearms in writing, in triplicate, using the Non-Resident Firearms Declaration (form CAFC 909).

If you are bringing more than three firearms, attach a Non-Resident Firearms Declaration Constinuation Sheet (form CAFC 910).

Please fill out the declaration form ahead of time to save time at the point of entry. However, wait until you arrive at the point of entry to sign the form because a customs officer must witness your signature.

Once the customs officer has confirmed your declaration, it will have the same effect as a licence for you and a temporary registration certificate for all the firearms you bring to Canada. It is valid for 60 days. You can renew your declaration at no additional fee, if you renew it before it expires, by contacting the CFO of the province or territory where you are staying. To renew it, call 1 800 731-4000.

A confirmed declaration costs a flat fee of $25, regardless of the number of firearms listed on it. It is only valid for the person who signs it 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.

Note: The above information has been cut and pasted from the Government of Canada website for your information and convenience only.