Prepare a business to import food into Canada
What does a business need to import food into Canada?
Commercial food importing involves CFIA food requirements and the customs process. Start with the specific food, origin and activity: a business registration alone is not permission to import a shipment.
Where to begin
- Identify the food, origin, supplier and intended activity; check CFIA’s food-specific requirements and Automated Import Reference System (AIRS).
- Review supplier controls, labelling and the applicable preventive-control requirements.
- Prepare the required preventive control plan, complaint and recall procedures before applying for the import licence.
- Use CFIA’s licensing guidance and My CFIA to obtain the required licence covering the importing activity and commodities.
- Check customs requirements with CBSA and provide the correct licence and shipment information in the import declaration.
- Maintain required traceability records, controls and recall procedures after importing.
Before you open the official service
- Food, origin and supplier details
- Applicable CFIA requirements and control documents
- Valid licence and shipment information
Keep your actual documents and account details off this website. Use the official service’s current checklist before applying.
What to check for your situation
Requirements vary by food and activity. AIRS and the licence do not replace all customs or other government requirements; this guide does not clear a shipment or certify compliance.
Fees, processing times and document rules can change. This page helps you navigate; it does not confirm eligibility or replace the government’s instructions.
Official sources
Prepared by Active K Digital from the linked public guidance. Read our source approach.