Firearms and weapons

Canada’s firearms legislation helps make the country safer for both residents and visitors. Before you attempt to import a firearm or weapon, contact the Canada Firearms Centre for information.

The following requirements apply to the importation of firearms and weapons:

• you must be at least 18 years of age;
• you can import non-restricted and restricted firearms, provided you meet all requirements; and
• you cannot import prohibited firearms, weapons or devices, including silencers, replica firearms, switchblades and other weapons.

You must declare all weapons and firearms at the CBSA port of entry or they will be seized and you may be subject to arrest.

As a visitor, you may temporarily import restricted firearms and non-restricted firearms, such as pistols or revolvers, provided you get Form CAFC 679, Application for an Authorization to Transport Restricted Firearms and Prohibited Firearms in advance from a chief firearms officer of the province or territory to which you are importing a restricted firearm.

As a seasonal resident, you may import restricted firearms but you must have a valid Possession and Acquisition Licence or a valid Firearms Acquisition Certificate, in addition to Form CAFC 679. For more information on importing a firearm into Canada, ask for a copy of the publication called Importing a Firearm or Weapon Into Canada or call the BIS line at one of the numbers listed in the section called "Additional information."

For more information about applying for a Canadian firearms licence or Form CAFC 679, contact:

Canada Firearms Centre Ottawa ON K1A 1M6

Telephone: 1-800-731-4000 (toll-free in Canada and the United States)
506-624-5380 (from all other countries)
Facsimile: 613-957-7325
E-mail: cfc-cafc@cfc-cafc.gc.ca
Web site: http://www.cfc-cafc.gc.ca

Replica firearms are designed or intended to resemble a firearm with near precision. They are classified as prohibited devices and you cannot import them into Canada.

Mace or pepper spray that is used for the purpose of injuring, immobilizing or otherwise incapacitating any person is considered a prohibited weapon. You cannot import it into Canada. Aerosol or similar dispensers that contain substances capable of repelling or subduing animals are not considered weapons if the label of the container specifically indicates that they are for use against animals.