Michael Turner
Immediate steps: before leaving, confirm the airline’s firearms policy and the destination’s federal rules. At the airport, present the weapon at check-in, declare it to the carrier, pack it unloaded in a locked, hard-sided container designed for transport, and store ammunition separately in original or approved packaging. Failure to declare at check-in or presenting a loaded device risks seizure, fines and criminal charges.
Border paperwork: complete the non-resident declaration form required by the federal border agency (form CAFC 909 – Non‑Resident Declaration) and have ownership documents, permits and any invitation or hunting licence available. If the item is classed as restricted, obtain written authorization from the Chief Firearms Office or equivalent authority before attempting to bring it across the border; prohibited categories are not permitted under any ordinary temporary declaration.
Airline and safety requirements: carriers require the weapon to be secured in checked baggage only, unloaded, and locked with a non‑shared key or combination. Declare at check-in; do not try to carry onto the aircraft. Verify allowable quantities and packaging rules for ammunition with the airline – limits and packaging requirements differ between operators and between departure and destination countries.
Consequences and checks: border officers will inspect and may detain non‑compliant items. Penalties include seizure, monetary fines, criminal prosecution and refusal of entry for the traveller. A criminal record or outstanding prohibitions can make entry impossible despite paperwork. Contact the federal border agency and the Chief Firearms Office well before departure for case‑specific guidance.
Practical checklist before you go: locked hard case; unloaded weapon; ammunition separated and packaged; printed CAFC 909 completed; ownership papers, permits or ATT where required; airline confirmation of acceptance; contact info for the federal border agency and the Chief Firearms Office. If any item on this list is missing, postpone the shipment until all approvals and carrier confirmations are obtained.
Bringing a gun into the country: immediate directive
Do not attempt to board an aircraft carrying a loaded gun in the cabin; place all guns unloaded inside a locked, hard-sided case stored in checked baggage, declare the weapon at the border entry point, and present licences or declaration paperwork on request.
Required paperwork
Non-residents must complete the Non‑Resident Firearm Declaration form at the border and pay the CAD $25 processing fee – that signed form acts as a temporary authorization for a limited period. Domestic holders should carry a valid possession-and-acquisition licence (PAL) or equivalent, registration certificates for restricted models, proof of ownership, and clear serial numbers. Any restricted category (handguns, certain semi-automatic rifles, short-barrelled long guns) normally requires advance authorization or an Authorization to Transport; failure to have proper approvals risks seizure and criminal charges.
Packing, airlines and on-arrival steps
At check-in declare the weapon to airline staff, follow the carrier’s policies: unloaded, locked hard case, ammunition in original packaging or a secure ammo container and packed separately from the gun. Confirm size and weight limits and any carrier fees before departure. On arrival stop at the primary inspection point, present the declaration form and licences, and only open the case for inspection when instructed by border officers. For secure gear consider a sturdy bag such as best leather duffel bag for travel for non-gun kit; for family gear include bulky items like a compact push stroller – see best triple umbrella stroller.
| Stage | Action | Documents / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Before departure | Contact airline; obtain carrier packing rules; secure locked hard case | Airline policy; case lock type; ammo limits |
| At check-in | Declare unloaded gun at counter; check into hold; store ammo separately | Keep boarding pass and declaration receipt |
| At border | Present licences, non-resident declaration if applicable; allow inspection | CAD $25 fee for non-resident declaration; temporary authorization period applies |
| Restricted items | Obtain Authorization to Transport or advance permit before arrival | No permit = refusal, seizure, possible prosecution |
Which specific guns and models are classified as prohibited, restricted, or non-restricted for entry to the country?
Obtain written authorization for any prohibited or restricted model on federal lists before attempting border crossing; undeclared or banned items risk seizure and criminal prosecution.
Prohibited – legal definition, common categories and example models
- By category:
- Fully automatic weapons and converted automatics (machine guns).
- Short-barrelled long guns reduced below the statutory minimums or altered to be concealable.
- Handguns specifically designated as prohibited by regulation (including certain compact or modified pistols).
- Any model named on federal Orders-in-Council as prohibited.
- Numeric thresholds commonly used in classification:
- Handgun barrel length threshold cited in law: 105 mm (approx. 4.13 in) for certain prohibitions.
- Frequently cited examples (representative, not exhaustive; many variants and clones affected):
- AR-platform semi-automatic rifles and many named variants (e.g., Colt AR-15 family, Smith & Wesson M&P15 and similar models) that appear on federal banned lists.
- AK-pattern rifles and common derivatives (e.g., AK-47 family, WASR-type clones) listed by regulation.
- Selected Ruger Mini-14 variants and other so-called “assault-style” semi-autos added to prohibited schedules.
- Other specific models named in Orders (examples historically include certain FN, CZ and other manufacturer models–always verify current schedules).
- Action required: cross-check the exact make/model/variant against the federal prohibited-model list and contact border authorities or the national firearms office for confirmation.
Restricted vs non-restricted – classification rules, representative examples and quick checks
- Core classification rules:
- Non-restricted: typically conventional rifles and shotguns that are not otherwise prohibited, and that meet minimum barrel/overall-length thresholds (barrel ≥ 470 mm / overall length ≥ 660 mm).
- Restricted: most handguns that are not on the prohibited list; certain long guns that meet specific length or design criteria; models specifically listed as restricted by regulation.
- Handguns:
- Most centre-fire pistols that are not prohibited are classified as restricted (examples: many full-size service pistols used for sport shooting, when not designated prohibited).
- Compact pistols with barrel/overall dimensions below regulatory cutoffs may be prohibited rather than merely restricted; verify barrel length and regulatory listings.
- Long guns:
- Bolt-action hunting rifles and pump-action or break-action shotguns that meet length requirements are normally non-restricted (examples: standard hunting bolt rifles, single-shot shotguns).
- Semi-automatic centre-fire rifles may be non-restricted or restricted depending on design and whether the model appears on a prohibited list; many semi-autos were specifically added to prohibited schedules in recent Orders.
- Practical verification steps:
- Record exact make, model, variant, serial number and any aftermarket modifications (barrel changes, folding stocks, muzzle devices).
- Compare those details against the current federal lists for prohibited and restricted models published by the national regulator.
- If classification is unclear, obtain written confirmation from the federal firearms office or Border Services prior to arrival.
Do not rely on general reputation or informal online lists; classification depends on precise model/variant and modifications, so always confirm against official government schedules and secure any required permits before attempting entry.
How to complete and validate a Non‑Resident Weapon Declaration on arrival – step‑by‑step
Download the official Non‑Resident Declaration from the CBSA website, print it, fill every field in BLOCK letters, leave signatures blank and bring original supporting documents (passport, foreign weapons licence or permit, event invitation or hunting tag as applicable).
Step 1 – Prepare the form: confirm you have the official three‑part form or a CBSA copy available at primary inspection if not. Use black or blue ink; do not use correction fluid or erase; write make, model, calibre/gauge, serial number, quantity of weapons and exact ammunition count (type and number of rounds). Enter intended entry and exit dates and the local address where the items will be kept.
Step 2 – Supporting paperwork: assemble passport, proof of residence in home jurisdiction, the foreign licence/permit that authorises possession, and any event/competition paperwork. Print membership or registration confirmations and a contact telephone number for the local host or range if applicable. Keep documents organized and ready to present.
Step 3 – At primary inspection: verbally declare possession of weapons immediately upon arrival and proceed to the firearms inspection area. Do not unload or unpack cases unless instructed by an officer. Keep all items unloaded, in a locked case, with ammunition stored separately in its original packaging or a secure container. Present the unsigned declaration and supporting documents to the officer.
Step 4 – Validation process: the border officer will inspect the items, verify serial numbers against the form, check permits and identity, then sign and stamp the traveller’s copy. One copy is retained by the officer; the validated copy returned to the visitor serves as a temporary licence and registration certificate for restricted weapons for up to 60 days. Keep that validated copy with the weapon at all times while inside the country.
Step 5 – While staying in the country: adhere to transport and storage rules – weapons unloaded, locked in a container, and ammo separate. Present the validated declaration to any local authority or host that requests proof of lawful temporary importation. If your stay will exceed the declared dates, contact CBSA or the local firearms authority before the original expiry.
Step 6 – Departure and export: present the validated declaration and the items to CBSA at exit. Expect inspection and verification of serial numbers against the validated copy. Failure to present a validated declaration or to declare items on entry or exit may result in seizure, administrative penalties and criminal prosecution.
Practical tips: complete the form before reaching the point of inspection; use precise serial numbers (include all characters); bring digital copies of all supporting documents; if the officer requests additional permits for restricted items, request a written explanation and contact the nearest CBSA firearms office for guidance.
What permits or Authorizations to Transport (ATT) do residents need versus requirements for visitors?
Residents must hold a valid Possession and Acquisition Licence (PAL) and obtain an Authorization to Transport (ATT) from the provincial Chief Officer (CFO) before moving restricted or prohibited-class guns on public roads.
Residents – required permits, documentation and typical ATT conditions
Required documents: PAL, registration certificate for any restricted-class gun, make/model/serial number, proof of reason (range membership card, appointment confirmation at a gunsmith, event entry or transfer paperwork). Apply to the provincial/territorial CFO; many offices accept online portals, email or in-person filings. Routine ATT requests for range use, gunsmith visits or approved events are often issued same-day or within a few business days; complex requests or prohibited-class transfers may take longer – allow up to 30 business days when unsure.
Common ATT content: permitted route, origin and destination addresses, dates or date range, purpose, and any conditions (locked container, unloaded, ammunition stored separately). ATT validity is frequently single-trip or date-specific; some CFOs issue recurring or seasonal ATTs for active club members – request that option if you need repeated movements. Fees vary by province; there is no single federal administrative fee schedule for ATT processing.
Transport rules tied to ATT: guns must be unloaded, secured in a locked hard-sided container or locked trunk-equivalent, and ammunition must be stored separately. Carry the ATT and PAL paperwork during the movement; failure to present written ATT on demand risks seizure, criminal charges and licence suspension.
Visitors – declaration, temporary authorizations and limits
Non-residents must complete a Non-Resident Firearm Declaration (NRFD) and have it validated by the border services officer at the point of entry; validation creates a temporary possession and registration document, generally valid for up to 60 days from validation. Present passport, proof of ownership and the completed NRFD upon arrival. Prohibited-category weapons are effectively barred for most visitors; if an item is classed restricted it may still be admitted only under a validated NRFD.
If intending to move restricted guns beyond the initial port of entry or to participate in events away from the validated location, contact the local CFO before arrival – additional ATT-type permissions or written approvals may be required. For stays exceeding the NRFD validity period, contact border services and the provincial CFO at least 30 days prior to the intended extension to request further authorizations or guidance.
Practical recommendations: confirm classification and registration status before planning movement; contact both the border services office at the intended entry point and the provincial CFO early; carry originals of PAL/NRFD/ATT and any event or repair appointments; store guns unloaded and locked, keep ammunition separate, and retain route/date details from any ATT when stopped by enforcement.
Airline and airport rules: how to declare, pack, lock and label a gun and separate ammunition for checked baggage
Declare the gun and cartridges at the check‑in desk to a staff agent before using any self‑service kiosk; present permits, registration or an import declaration and a government ID; do not attempt to check the item using bag‑drop without direct staff inspection.
Condition: weapon must be completely unloaded, magazine(s) removed, chamber visually empty and secured with a chamber flag or other visible empty‑chamber indicator; actions should be fixed open where possible. Store any detachable magazines unloaded inside the same locked container or in a separate locked container placed in checked baggage per carrier rules.
Case: use a hard‑sided, lockable container specifically manufactured for guns (metal or high‑impact polymer). Soft cases are unacceptable. The case should fully enclose contents, have reinforced hasps for padlocks and no external zippers. Use heavy duty padlocks or integrated case locks; keep keys and combinations on your person, never inside the checked case.
Ammunition packing: pack cartridges only in original manufacturer packaging or in purpose‑built ammo boxes (fiber, metal or sturdy plastic). Do not transport loose rounds in plastic bags. For most carriers the accepted maximum is 5 kg net of cartridges per passenger (confirm with the airline), and explosives such as loose propellant and primers are prohibited unless permitted as part of commercially‑loaded cartridges.
Separation and placement: unless the airline or port specifically requires a separate locked container, recommended practice is to place ammunition in its own box inside the locked hard case, physically separated from the gun by foam or a divider. If the destination authority requires distinct locked containers for gun and ammo, follow that instruction and have both containers labeled and documented.
Labeling and documentation: attach a tag to the case showing your name, contact number and permit/registration numbers; add a visible label stating “UNLOADED” and include any airline declaration sticker provided at check‑in. Keep copies of permits and the declaration form in carry‑on, not inside the checked container.
At check‑in and security: present the locked case to the agent for inspection; open the case for inspection only when instructed and under staff supervision. Expect security or customs officers to request removal of the gun for physical inspection; do not resist removal of locks if law enforcement requires it–agents may cut locks if necessary.
Connecting flights and international transit: verify every carrier and every transit country’s rules before departure. Some carriers prohibit certain calibres, magazine capacities or quantities of cartridges; others require a hazardous‑goods cargo shipment for larger quantities. If shipping via cargo, complete the required dangerous‑goods paperwork and use certified packaging.
Airline notification and advance checks: call the carrier at least 48 hours before departure to confirm acceptance, any weight/quantity limits, and whether any special labels or forms are required at check‑in. Failure to declare or improper packing will commonly result in seizure, fines or denial of boarding.
What documentation and records to present to CBSA officers at the border
Present originals of passport, validated three-part Non‑Resident Declaration form, and your home-jurisdiction possession licence, plus a printed inventory listing make, model, calibre, exact serial number, country of manufacture, purchase date and seller contact for every gun.
Core documents
Original passport/entry documents and one photocopy.
Original possession licence or permit issued by your home authority; bring a photocopy and a high-resolution digital photo on your phone.
Validated declaration form (the three-part Non‑Resident Declaration) if applicable; hand the validated copy back to the officer when requested.
Registration certificates or equivalent paperwork for restricted/registered items, and any Authorization to Transport (ATT) or import permit issued prior to arrival.
Proofs of ownership and serial-number records
Original purchase receipts or bills of sale showing seller name/address, date, item description and serial number; if original receipt lacks serial number, add seller correspondence or credit-card statement tied to the purchase.
Printed inventory sheet formatted as: Item number | Make | Model | Calibre | Serial number | Country of manufacture | Purchase date | Seller | Receipt reference. Prepare three printed copies (one for CBSA if requested, one to keep, one spare) and one digital backup.
Photos: clear close-ups of each item’s serial number and an overall image of the item. Save filenames that match the inventory line numbers for quick cross-checking.
For ammunition and magazines, carry original receipts and package labels; list magazine capacities on your inventory sheet and match them to receipts where applicable.
Documents not in English or French require a certified translation; bring both the original and the translation. If any paper documents are not available, present high-quality printed screenshots of emailed invoices that include timestamps and sender details.
If serial numbers differ from paperwork, supply secondary evidence: warranty card, repair/service records, bank/credit statements showing the transaction, and a notarized affidavit explaining discrepancy.
Organize all papers in a single, clearly labelled folder and offer it immediately when requested by an officer to speed inspection. For unrelated maintenance or gear-cleaning guidance see best auto wash to use for sun joe pressure washer.
