Protected animal, specimen or product: request a CITES permit before crossing the border
Identify the species and origin scientifically, choose import, export or re-export and obtain the original before shipment.
Do not ship or travel before issuance. An antique, souvenir, instrument, medicine or manufactured product may contain a regulated species.
Identify the specimen
Determine scientific name, part or product, amount, age, country of origin, wild or captive source and CITES appendix. Obtain specialist help when needed.
Establish provenance
Keep invoices, earlier permits, breeding certificate, estate records, acquisition date and proof of lawful entry. A seller’s statement alone may be insufficient.
Choose the permit
Distinguish Canadian export, re-export and an import required by the other country. Also check health, customs and provincial rules.
Plan the crossing
Apply early, wait for the original document, use an allowed exit or entry point and have the permit validated as instructed at the crossing.
CITES permit application — ECCC