It is the exporter's responsibility to ensure that the animal meets the importing country requirements.

The National Aquatic Animal Health Program (NAAHP) regulates the import of all aquatic animals into Canada. Information about the process required to import aquatic animals into Canada can be found on the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) website.

Email

cfia.nisc-csni.acia@canada.ca

Refer to this and the Department’s websites for current information about exporting aquatic animals (including any suspensions).

Note

Where an importing country issues an import permit, the exporter must ensure the animal meets any requirements in the permit.

As required by the importing country.

The Automated Import Reference System (AIRS) provides guidance on the current import requirements for CFIA regulated commodities based on applicable animal health policies.

Permission to move aquatic animals out of Australia

You may need permission under wildlife trade laws to move aquatic animals out of Australia. Refer to the Department's International wildlife trade requirements.

Email

wildlifetrade@dcceew.gov.au

Export from Australia of Australian native hatchery bred fingerlings or ova should be accompanied by approval of the hatchery facility from the appropriate State or Federal authority. Please check the Department's Exporting fish and fish products from Australia for information about exports for human consumption.

CFIA Aquatic Animal Health Import Permit Requirements

The requirement for an import permit, health certificate or other documentation is based on the susceptibility of the aquatic animal to Canada's diseases of concern. You should check the Susceptible species of aquatic animals to confirm if an Aquatic Animal Health Import Permit is required.

Imports of non-susceptible aquatic animals do not require an Aquatic Animal Health Import Permit for entry into Canada.

Susceptible aquatic animals being imported as pets or for personal use do not require an Aquatic Animal Health Import Permit.

Importers should still check the Automated Import Reference System (AIRS) to confirm if there are other criteria that need to be met before importing.

Transport requirements

The importing country may have specific transport requirements and you should check this.

Pre and post arrival quarantine requirements

The importing country may have specific pre and post arrival quarantine requirements and you should check this.

Based on importing country website and information.

Entry last reviewed 3 August 2022.