Requirements for Importing a Vehicle into Canada from Countries Other Than the United States and Mexico
Transport Canada provides essential information on importing vehicles into Canada from countries other than the U.S. and Mexico. Importers must comply with the Motor Vehicle Safety Act, and non-compliance may result in criminal offenses, penalties, and vehicle detention.
Vehicle Manufactured for a Foreign Market:
Importing vehicles built and certified to meet foreign standards is prohibited by the Motor Vehicle Safety Act.
Special Circumstances for Importing from Outside U.S. and Mexico:
Vehicle Age and Class:
Vehicles 15 years or older, meeting specific criteria, and not buses can be imported.
Buses manufactured before January 1, 1971, are eligible for importation.
Non-Regulated Vehicles:
Non-regulated vehicles, not belonging to a class regulated under the Motor Vehicle Safety Regulations, can be imported.
Vehicles Meeting Canadian Standards:
Vehicles meeting Canadian standards and purchased new abroad may be imported with pre-authorization from Transport Canada.
Returning Canadian-Specification Vehicles:
Vehicles originally owned in Canada, complying with Canadian standards, and returning may be imported with pre-authorization.
Vehicles Meeting U.S. Safety Standards:
Vehicles meeting U.S. safety standards, bought new in the U.S. prior to being shipped abroad, can be imported, qualifying via the Registrar of Imported Vehicles.
Returning U.S.-Specification Used Vehicles:
U.S.-specification used vehicles, originally purchased at retail in the U.S., complying with U.S. standards, may be imported, qualifying via the Registrar of Imported Vehicles.
Learn More:
Refer to "Importation of Vehicles – Memorandum D19-12-1" administered by the Canada Border Services Agency for detailed guidelines.
Contact Information:
For more information on importing a vehicle, contact Transport Canada - Motor Vehicle Safety.
Telephone: 1-800-333-0371 (toll-free), 613-998-8616 (Ottawa region)
Email: mvs-sa@tc.gc.ca
Canada Car Shipper Assistance: If you need expert guidance throughout the vehicle importation process, Canada Car Shipper is here to help. Our experienced team can provide valuable insights and assistance. Contact us to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.