Guide

New plant variety: apply for plant breeders’ rights in Canada

Check novelty, distinctness, uniformity and stability, prepare material and forms, then track examination and grant.

Priority

Protection is optional, territorial and separate from variety registration or seed-sale requirements.

Confirm the right to apply

The applicant must be the breeder, employer or legal representative. Document origin, selection, assignments and first sales of the variety.

Assess the variety

Prepare the characteristics that make it distinct and evidence of uniformity and stability. Also check denomination and novelty rules.

File the package

Submit the form, fees, supporting documents and propagating material when required. A non-resident may need to appoint a Canadian agent.

Prepare for examination

Arrange comparative trials, the test-site examination request and required data. Then track issuance fees and annual rights fees.

Plant breeders' rights application — CFIA

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Official sources are linked in the guide. Checked August 29, 2026; confirm current rules, forms and deadlines with the responsible authority.
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