The rules changed January 1, 2001. Here are the answers to some of your
questions…
How will this change in regulations affect me?
You will have to fill out a Non-Resident Firearm Declaration Form, unless
you already have a five-year possession and acquisition license. The form
will be your temporary firearms license while you are in Canada, and it is
valid for 60 days (for a non-restricted firearm). To avoid delays, we
advise that you fill it out before coming to the border.
Where can I get a copy of the form?
Forms are available at any Customs office, or you can call the Canadian
Firearms Centre (CFC) at 1-800-731-4000 and a form will be mailed to you.
You can also download a form (you will need three copies) from their Web
site at: www.cfc-ccaf-gc-ca
Does the temporary license cost anything?
The fee is CDN$50, and is valid for a twelve month period. You can pay
the firearms fee by cash, MasterCard, Visa, or personal check. Please
note that personal checks will not be accepted unless drawn on a Canadian
banking establishment. Checks should be made payable to the Receiver
General of Canada.
What happens when I get to the border?
Show your completed firearm declaration to the customs officer. The
customs officer may inspect your firearm(s). Once your form has been
confirmed by the customs officer, and you pay the CDN$50 fee, it will
become your temporary firearms license while you are in Canada. It is
valid for 60 days (for a non-restricted firearm). Every time you bring
a firearm into Canada, you must show your temporary license to a customs
officer to obtain a new confirmation number.
What is a non-restricted firearm?
Non-restricted firearms include most long guns, shotguns, and rifles. If
you are unsure about what class your firearm falls into, call the Canadian
Firearms Centre at 1-800-731-4000 or visit their web
site
What happens if I want to stay in Canada longer then 60 days?
You may extend your license by calling the Canadian Firearms Centre at
1-800-731-4000 and you will be transferred to the Chief Firearms Officer
in the province you are visiting. There is no additional fee for extending
your license.
