Submit Your Customs Declaration in Advance and Save Time at the Airport

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Argo Customs Brokers is dedicated to maintaining clear communication with their customers and those who wish to keep themselves informed about important importing and exporting regulations. As such, we present pertinent points from a news release issued by the Canada Border Services Agency.

As of February 28, 2023, Advance Declaration was made available to all travellers arriving on international flights at the Ottawa International Airport (YOW) and Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ). Express lanes are also available in both airports’ customs areas, allowing travellers who complete their Advance Declaration to skip long line-ups at the Primary Inspection Kiosks (PIK).

The Advance Declaration provides travellers with the option to submit their customs and immigration declaration, using the ArriveCAN app, up to 72 hours in advance of their arrival in Canada. Travellers can now spend less time at PIKs when they arrive at the airport, resulting in shorter wait times at the border.

In an effort to modernize and expedite the travel experience, Advance Declaration has already been implemented for travellers arriving on international flights at the following Canadian airports:

  • Toronto Pearson
  • Montreal-Trudeau
  • Winnipeg Richardson
  • Vancouver
  • Halifax Stanfield
  • Québec City Jean-Lesage
  • Calgary

The digital tool will also become available to travellers arriving at Edmonton International Airport in the coming weeks.

 

Advance Declaration is part of CBSA’s Traveller Modernization Initiative, which is being implemented over the coming years. Modernizing the travel experience includes the use of digital technologies and tools for both travellers and border service officers.

 

“With Advance Declaration and express lanes now available at Billy Bishop Toronto City and Ottawa International Airports, we are keeping our border secure while providing a better and faster experience for travellers. This is another example of how the CBSA is modernizing the border, and we are happy to be working with Ports Toronto and Ottawa International Airport Authority to make this option available to travellers.” –Eric Lapierre, Regional Director General, Northern Ontario Region, CBSA and Lisa Janes, Regional Director General, Greater Toronto Area Region, CBSA

 

Key Takeaways

  • Early usage data shows that using the Advance Declaration feature in ArriveCAN cuts the amount of time a traveller spends at a PIK or eGate by roughly one third.
  • A traveller can submit a customs and immigration declaration at any point within 72 hours before their arrival in Canada. Travellers can also edit their declaration, if needed, at the airport kiosk once they arrive. The declaration is not finalized until it has been confirmed at the airport kiosk.
  • Personal information provided by travellers through ArriveCAN is protected under the Privacy Act. For more information, see the ArriveCAN privacy notice. Advance CBSA Declaration has an additional privacy notice that is presented to users upon accessing the feature. It offers end-to-end encryption for information the traveller transmits to the CBSA in advance of their arrival in Canada.

Associated Links

Argo Customs Brokers Is Available to Assist

If you or your company are affected by these new regulations, ARGO Customs Brokers would be happy to speak with you about how they may apply. The team at Argo Customs Brokers is always available to answer questions and can help you understand the effect that these regulations may have on your plans. All inquiries are welcome.

Checklist for Importing Commercial Goods Into Canada

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Argo Customs Brokers is dedicated to maintaining clear communication with their customers and those who wish to keep themselves informed about important importing and exporting regulations. As such, we present pertinent points from documents issued by the Canada Border Services Agency.

Note that this checklist is to be used in conjunction with the Step-by-Step Guide to Importing Commercial Goods into Canada. It is intended to complement and not replace existing regulations, acts, and references.

Importing requirements include the following:

  • Obtain your import/export business number (RM import account) from the Canada Revenue Agency. ARGO brokers can help obtain an RM account for Non-Resident Importers (NRI program).
  • Identify what type of goods you want to import.
  • ARGO Customs brokers can assist to determine the proper HS Tariff classification code.
  • Determine the country of origin for the goods you are importing. ARGO brokers will assist you with the Free Trade Agreements rules and conditions to use them.
  • Verify whether the goods are controlled, regulated or prohibited by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) or any other government department or agency. ARGO Brokers are handling ODG PGA goods at all Canadian ports.
  • Ensure that the goods are marked and labelled as required.
  • Determine whether the goods are subject to any other duties or taxes including the goods and services tax (GST).
  • Obtain invoices, certificates of origin, and any other required documents.
  • Determine the value for duty of the goods you are importing.
  • Select the method of shipping and communicate with the transportation company regarding cross-border requirements.
  • Await notification that your shipment has arrived and provide it to your broker.

 

The Checklist for Importing Commercial Goods Into Canada is intended to complement and not replace existing regulations, acts, and references ~ CBSA

Key Takeaways

The CBSA notes the following information to consider when complying with stipulated regulations:

  • The shipment may be examined by government officials. Fees charged by authorized third parties to unload and reload goods are the responsibility of the importer.
  • If you make an error in the accounting information provided to the CBSA, you are required to correct the declaration if the change is revenue-neutral or if you owe money.
  • Keep records of your import documents for a period of six years following the importation.
  • Be aware that the CBSA uses the Administrative Monetary Penalty System (AMPS) to assess monetary penalties against businesses that do not comply with customs legislation.

Associated Links

Argo Customs Brokers Is Available to Assist

If you or your company are affected by these new regulations, ARGO Customs Brokers would be happy to speak with you about how they may apply. The team at Argo Customs Brokers is always available to answer questions and can help you understand the effect that these procedures may have on your plans. All inquiries are welcome.

New Export Import Control System (New EICS)

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Global Affairs Canada (GAC) recently completed an upgrade to the Export Import Controls System (EICS).

The New EICS enables licenced customs brokers to apply online for export or import permits for controlled goods. Products subject to import controls include agricultural products, firearms, textiles and clothing, steel, and aluminum.

This notification represents changes in the web interface and does not constitute changes in trade control policy or the permit process.

Key Takeaways

  • The upgrade includes:
    • a new web user interface supported by up-to-date browsers
    • updates to align with Government of Canada security and accessibility standards
    • enhanced system navigation
    • new authentication system with unique log-in credentials
  • Note that access privileges in the New EICS will remain the same as they were in the old system. This upgrade also does not constitute changes in trade control policy or the permit process.
  • Functionality, EICS tabs and processes also remain unchanged. The New EICS represents a modernization of the authentication system and web interface.

Related Links

●      EICS – Participants Requirements Document (Version 2.4, March 2012)

●      List of licensed customs brokers (CBSA)

●      EICS Hours of Operation

●      EICS PKI Policy for Customs Brokers Certificates

●      Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

●      EICS Privacy Impact Assessment

“We define, shape, and advance Canada’s interests and values in a complex global environment. We manage diplomatic relations, promote international trade, and provide consular assistance. We lead international development, humanitarian, and peace and security assistance efforts. We also contribute to national security and the development of international law.” –Global Affairs Canada

ARGO Customers Brokers Is Ready to Help

ARGO Customs Brokers has registered for the new EICS system and can assist you in applying to obtain an EIPA number for your company. Note that permits can also be accessed via the new EICS portal.

You are invited to inquire regarding a free consultation regarding changes to the EICS system. ARGO Customs Brokers is pleased to assist with all of your import and export business.

CBSA signs Mutual Recognition Agreement with the European Union to Enhance Supply Chain Security and Facilitate Trade

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CBSA signs Mutual Recognition Agreement with the European Union

Argo Customs Brokers is dedicated to maintaining clear communication with their customers and those who wish to keep themselves informed about important importing and exporting regulations. As such, we present pertinent points from a news release issued by the Canada Border Services Agency.

The news release titled CBSA signs Mutual Recognition Agreement with the European Union to enhance supply chain security and facilitate trade was published on October 28, 2022.

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) announced the signing of a Mutual Recognition Agreement with the European Union’s (EU) Taxation and Customs Union (TAXUD) to honour each other’s Trusted Trader programs. The signing took place during a Canada-EU Joint Customs Cooperation Committee meeting in Brussels, Belgium. This contributes to increasing the security of the international supply chain, facilitating trade at the border, and strengthening the economic competitiveness of Canadians doing business with the EU.

Members of Canada’s Trusted Trader program, Partners in Protection (PIP), will have their goods treated as low risk and cleared by EU Customs faster, ultimately saving time and money at the border. The CBSA will do the same for members of the EU’s Trusted Trader program, which is referred to as their Authorized Economic Operator program. This will also allow the CBSA to focus its resources on areas of higher or unknown risk and protect Canadians by preventing contraband from entering the country.

The CBSA establishes mutual recognition with customs organizations around the world so countries can recognize each other’s program members as low risk and honour similar benefits. It signifies that countries apply similar security standards and validation processes when approving program applicants. The key goal of mutual recognition is to strengthen trust and security in the supply chain to prevent criminal activity, such as cargo theft, pilferage, and smuggling contraband. Mutual recognition also contributes to trade by streamlining processing at the border for certified and trusted traders.

“The Canada Border Services Agency is pleased to have signed a Mutual Recognition Agreement with the European Union, Canada’s second-largest trading partner. This agreement will enhance international supply chain security, facilitate trade between Canada and Europe, and strengthen the economic competitiveness of Canadian businesses.” —Erin O’Gorman, President, Canada Border Services Agency

Key Takeaways

  • The EU is one of the largest economies in the world and Canada’s second-largest trading partner after the United States.
  • The EU is a large, dynamic market of 450 million consumers that offers tremendous opportunities for Canadian businesses in a wide range of sectors.
  • The Canada-EU Comprehensive and Economic Trade Agreement has significantly expanded commercial opportunities between the parties.
  • In 2021, the value of trade in goods between the EU and Canada was approximately $88.2 billion.
  • In addition to this agreement with the EU, the CBSA has established mutual recognition with the customs administrations of Australia, Hong Kong, Israel, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore, South Korea and the United States.

Associated Links

Argo Customs Brokers is Available to Assist

If you or your company imports goods that are affected by this agreement, ARGO Customs Brokers would be happy to talk with you about how you and your company can get the most out of it. The team at Argo Customs Brokers is always available to answer questions about importing and exporting and can help you understand the effect that this agreement can have on your plans. All inquiries are welcome.

CBSA Signs Mutual Recognition Agreement with the European Union

Written by

Argo Customs Brokers is dedicated to maintaining clear communication with their customers and those who wish to keep themselves informed about important importing and exporting regulations. As such, we present pertinent points from a news release issued by the Canada Border Services Agency.

The news release titled CBSA signs Mutual Recognition Agreement with the European Union to enhance supply chain security and facilitate trade was published on October 28, 2022, by Canada Border Services Agency.

Strong partnerships between customs organisations and businesses enhance the security and integrity of our global supply chain.

Today, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) announced the signing of a Mutual Recognition Agreement with the European Union’s (EU) Taxation and Customs Union (TAXUD) to honour each other’s Trusted Trader programs. The signing took place during a Canada-EU Joint Customs Cooperation Committee meeting in Brussels, Belgium.

This agreement will contribute to increasing the security of the international supply chain, facilitating trade at the border, and strengthening the economic competitiveness of Canadians doing business with the EU.

Members of Canada’s Trusted Trader program, Partners in Protection (PIP), will have their goods treated as low risk and cleared by EU Customs faster, ultimately saving time and money at the border. The CBSA will do the same for members of the EU’s Trusted Trader program, which is referred to as their Authorized Economic Operator program. This will also allow the CBSA to focus its resources on areas of higher or unknown risk and protect Canadians by preventing contraband from entering the country.

The CBSA establishes mutual recognition with customs organisations around the world so countries can recognize each other’s program members as low risk and honour similar benefits. It signifies that countries apply similar security standards and validation processes when approving program applicants. The key goal of mutual recognition is to strengthen trust and security in the supply chain to prevent criminal activity, such as cargo theft, pilferage, and smuggling contraband. Mutual recognition also contributes to trade by streamlining processing at the border for certified trusted traders.

 

Border management is a shared international responsibility. Threats and opportunities arising from global migration and trade are dealt with most effectively by working together. Expanding the international network of accredited low-risk companies allows customs administrations to focus on targeting shipments of higher or unknown risk.

“The Canada Border Services Agency is pleased to have signed a Mutual Recognition Agreement with the European Union, Canada’s second-largest trading partner. This agreement will enhance international supply chain security, facilitate trade between Canada and Europe, and strengthen the economic competitiveness of Canadian businesses.” –Erin O’Gorman, President, Canada Border Services Agency

Key Takeaways

  • The EU is one of the largest economies in the world and Canada’s second-largest trading partner after the United States.
  • The EU is a large, dynamic market of 450 million consumers that offers tremendous opportunities for Canadian businesses in a wide range of sectors.
  • The Canada-EU Comprehensive and Economic Trade Agreement has significantly expanded commercial opportunities between the parties.
  • In addition to this agreement with the EU, the CBSA has established mutual recognition with the customs administrations of Australia, Hong Kong, Israel, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore, South Korea and the United States.

Associated Links

Argo Customs Brokers is Available to Assist

If you are an individual or represent a company that is involved with EU importing/exporting, be sure to read the above notification by the Canada Border Services Agency and the associated links regarding the agreement thoroughly. The team at Argo Customs Brokers is always available to answer questions about importing and exporting and can help you understand the effect that this agreement can have on your plans. All inquiries are welcome.

Excise Duty Notice EDN80 – Vaping Products

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The Government of Canada has introduced an excise duty (vaping duty) on vaping products through a new excise duty framework. The vaping duty and the vaping excise stamps apply to vaping substances that are manufactured in Canada or imported, and that are intended for use in a vaping device in Canada. The excise duty framework for vaping products came into effect on October 1, 2022.

Vaping duty means a duty imposed under section 158.57 of the Excise Act, 2001.

Vaping excise stamp means a stamp that is issued by the Minister of National Revenue under subsection 158.36(1) of the Excise Act, 2001, and that has not been cancelled under section 158.4 of that Act.

Vaping product means:

a) a vaping substance that is not contained within a vaping device; or

b) a vaping device that contains a vaping substance.

It does not include a cannabis product or a tobacco product.

The purpose of this notice is to provide information on excise stamps for vaping product licensees that intend to package vaping products in Canada or import packaged vaping products intended for the duty-paid market, as well as for vaping prescribed persons that import packaged vaping products into the duty-paid market. It also provides information on the transitional provisions that relate to the vaping stamping regime.

Excise Warehouse Licence

A vaping product licensee who manufactures and imports vaping products in Canada for export or for sale to an accredited representative, also requires an excise warehouse licence. Under the Excise Act, 2001, vaping products manufactured or imported in Canada that are packaged but not stamped, must be immediately entered into the licensee’s excise warehouse.

Vaping Product Licence – Exceptions

A person does not have to apply for a vaping product licence under the Excise Act, 2001 if they

  • are not manufacturing vaping products in Canada
  • are importing vaping products only for their personal use in quantities that to not exceed the prescribed limit of 5 units, as per section 5.1 of the Stamping and Marking of Tobacco, Cannabis and Vaping Products Regulations
  • are only importing stamped packaged vaping products into Canada (i.e., they do not manufacture vaping products in Canada). In such a case, the person must apply to the CRA to be a vaping prescribed person.

Key Takeaways

  • Application of Customs Act

New section 158.59 of the Act provides that the duties on imported vaping products imposed under new sections 158.57 and 158.58 of the Act must be paid and collected under the Customs Act as if they were duties levied under the Customs Tariff.

  • Duty on vaping products taken for use

New subsection 158.6(1) of the Act provides that if vaping products are taken for use (see commentary for the definition “take for use”) then a duty is imposed in the amount determined in respect of the vaping product under new Schedule 8 to the Act. If the vaping products that are taken for use are packaged, they are also relieved of the duty imposed under new section 158.57 of the Act.

Helpful Links

Overview of Vaping Excise Stamps

A person may apply to be registered for the vaping stamping regime at the same time they apply for a vaping product licence or vaping prescribed person registration under the Act by completing Form L601, Registration for the Vaping Stamping Regime.

For more information on obtaining a vaping product licence, refer to Excise Duty Notice EDN79, Obtaining and Renewing a Vaping Product Licence.

For more information on applying to become a vaping prescribed person, refer to Excise Duty Notice EDN81, Becoming a Vaping Prescribed Person.

Importing commercial goods by courier (CLVS program)

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The Canada Border Services Agency’s (CBSA) measures regarding Importing goods through the Courier Low Value Shipment (CLVS) Program continue to be in force. Argo Customs Brokers continues to participate in the program to assist its customers.

Secure Customs Brokerage accounts with UPS, DHL and FedEx are maintained. When customers are shipping with them, all documents are prepared electronically via a special Customs Broker’s connection on a secure site.

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) is a federal agency that facilitates the flow of legitimate travellers and trade. The agency also enforces more than 100 acts and regulations that keep Canada and Canadians safe.

Shipments Eligible Through CLVS Program

Specific restrictions apply to all shipments imported through the Courier Low Value Shipment (CLVS) program whether for commercial or personal use.

Your shipment may be part of the CBSA’s CLVS Program if:

  • The entire shipment is valued at are worth Can$3,300 or less;
  • The company handling the shipment currently participates in the CLVS Program; and
  • The goods are not regulated, controlled or prohibited.

source: CBSA, 2020

 Key Takeaways

  • The exporter provides the courier with the value, country of origin, and a detailed description of the goods.
  • Only eligible shipments are processed through the Courier Low Value Shipment (CLVS) Program.
  • The CBSA reviews each shipment and may choose to examine the shipment to confirm eligibility of the goods to enter Canada.
  • Once the CBSA is satisfied that the shipment complies with all import regulations, it is released to the courier for delivery.

Helpful Links

Importing goods through the Courier Low Value Shipment (CLVS) Program

Note that only a licensed customs broker may account for goods and pay duties under section 32 of the Customs Act as the agent of the owner or importer of the goods.

For further details on what goods are considered regulated, controlled or prohibited please refer to departmental memoranda: D9 – Prohibited Importations and D19 – Acts and Regulations of Other Government Departments.

Canada Border Services Agency and U.S. Department of Commerce renew focus on keeping sensitive technologies and goods out of Russian hands

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The U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) play an important role in the coordinated response to Russian aggression in Ukraine.

Through stringent enforcement measures, we are restricting Russia’s access to technologies and other goods Russia needs to sustain its aggressive military capabilities.

The CBSA facilitates the flow of legitimate travellers and trade, and also enforces more than 100 acts and regulations that keep Canada and Canadians safe. Bureau of Industry and Security’s mission is to advance U.S. national security, foreign policy, and economic objectives by ensuring an effective export control and treaty compliance system and promoting continued U.S. strategic technology leadership.

CBSA enforce a wide array of measures, including sanctions and export controls, that are used to prevent sensitive goods and technologies from reaching illicit procurement networks, where they could be used to produce weapons of mass destruction or conventional weapons. Our enforcement efforts allow us to identify and stop state and non-state actors that engage in potentially illicit activity, carry out seizures, enforce monetary penalties and criminally investigate those who violate the rules and regulations.

Today, both Agencies are strengthening our U.S.-Canada enforcement relationship through a joint commitment to leverage our authorities and resources to detect, deter, and stop violations of export controls and to ensure compliance with laws and regulations. Together, we will share information; conduct pre- and post-shipment verifications and audits; inspect, detain, and seize shipments; and reduce threats through coordinated enforcement actions and investigations.

Quick facts

The CBSA helps ensure that exporters comply with national policies, processes, procedures, regulations and legislation related to exporting commercial goods.

Bureau of Industry and Security advances U.S. national security, foreign policy, and economic objectives by ensuring an effective export control and treaty compliance system, and by promoting continued U.S. leadership in strategic technologies.

Export controls are restrictions applied by governments as a means to regulate, and sometimes deny, trade in specific goods and technologies.

Through legislation tabled in May 2022, the Government of Canada will strengthen sanctions by banning sanctioned Russians from entering Canada.

Canada Border Services Agency and U.S. Department of Commerce renew focus on keeping sensitive technologies and goods out of Russian hands

Written by

OTTAWA, ONTARIO/WASHINGTON, D.C

The U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) play an important role in the coordinated response to Russian aggression in Ukraine.

Through stringent enforcement measures, we are restricting Russia’s access to technologies and other goods Russia needs to sustain its aggressive military capabilities.

The CBSA facilitates the flow of legitimate travellers and trade, and also enforces more than 100 acts and regulations that keep Canada and Canadians safe. Bureau of Industry and Security’s mission is to advance U.S. national security, foreign policy, and economic objectives by ensuring an effective export control and treaty compliance system and promoting continued U.S. strategic technology leadership.

We enforce a wide array of measures, including sanctions and export controls, that are used to prevent sensitive goods and technologies from reaching illicit procurement networks, where they could be used to produce weapons of mass destruction or conventional weapons. Our enforcement efforts allow us to identify and stop state and non-state actors that engage in potentially illicit activity, carry out seizures, enforce monetary penalties and criminally investigate those who violate the rules and regulations.

Today, we are strengthening our U.S.-Canada enforcement relationship through a joint commitment to leverage our authorities and resources to detect, deter, and stop violations of export controls and to ensure compliance with laws and regulations. Together, we will share information; conduct pre- and post-shipment verifications and audits; inspect, detain, and seize shipments; and reduce threats through coordinated enforcement actions and investigations.

Registration under the Select Luxury Items Tax Act is open on Canada.ca / Inscription en vertu de la Loi sur l’impôt sur certains biens de luxe maintenant ouverte sur Canada.ca

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The Government of Canada is following through on its commitment to introduce a luxury tax on certain vehicles and aircraft priced over $100,000 and certain vessels priced over $250,000 to ensure that those Canadians who can afford to buy luxury items are contributing a little more. This tax will come into effect on September 1, 2022.

The tax will apply to deliveries in Canada by way of sale or similar arrangements, as well as importations into Canada. A vehicle, aircraft or vessel would fall within the scope of the luxury tax regime if it meets the definition of subject vehicle, subject aircraft or subject vessel as set out in the Select Luxury Items Tax Act. These three items are broadly referred to as subject items.

If you are a manufacturer, wholesaler, retailer, or importer of any of these subject items in the course of your business, you are required to register under the Select Luxury Items Tax Act with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) and file a quarterly Luxury Tax and Information Return.

Registration may be completed by visiting Canada.ca. We invite you to register ahead of time to ensure you are prepared when the Luxury Tax program begins on September 1, 2022. Registering ahead of time ensures that you can obtain and hold tax-free inventory of vehicles, aircraft or vessels you are registering for. Any incorrect or incomplete information could delay the processing of your application.

For more information and to register under the Select Luxury Items Tax Act, you can visit Canada.ca/luxury-tax.

Additional links

Inscription en vertu de la Loi sur l’impôt sur certains biens de luxe maintenant ouverte sur Canada.ca

Le gouvernement du Canada respecte son engagement de créer une taxe de luxe sur certains véhicules et aéronefs de plus de 100 000 $ et certains navires de plus de 250 000 $ pour s’assurer que les Canadiens qui peuvent se permettre d’acheter des biens de luxe contribuent un peu plus. Cette taxe entrera en vigueur le 1er septembre 2022.

La taxe s’appliquera aux livraisons effectuées au Canada par vente ou accord semblable, ainsi qu’aux importations au Canada. Un véhicule, un aéronef ou un navire sera visé par le régime de la taxe de luxe s’il répond à la définition de véhicule assujetti, d’aéronef assujetti ou de navire assujetti, comme prévu par la Loi sur l’impôt sur certains biens de luxe. Ces trois biens sont généralement appelés des biens assujettis.

Si vous êtes un fabricant, un grossiste, un détaillant ou un importateur de l’un de ces biens dans le cadre de vos activités, vous devez vous inscrire auprès de l’Agence en vertu de la Loi sur la taxe sur certains articles de luxe. Vous devrez aussi remplir et envoyer chaque trimestre une déclaration de renseignements de la taxe de luxe.

Vous pouvez vous inscrire sur le site Web Canada.ca. Vous devriez vous inscrire à l’avance afin d’être prêt lorsque la Loi sur la taxe sur certains biens de luxe entrera en vigueur le 1er septembre 2022. Vous pourrez ainsi obtenir un inventaire libre d’impôt de véhicules, d’aéronefs ou de navires pour lesquels vous vous inscrivez. Tout renseignement inexact ou incomplet pourrait retarder le traitement de votre demande.

Pour obtenir plus de renseignements et pour vous inscrire en vertu de la Loi sur l’impôt sur certains biens de luxe, allez à canada.ca/taxe-luxe.

Liens supplémentaires