Canada Launches Integrated Import Declaration Option for Electronic Release of Goods

As part of its Single Window Initiative, the Canada Border Services Agency recently launched the Integrated Import Declaration release service option to further expand the ability of importers and customs brokers to submit and obtain electronic release for goods regulated by participating government departments and agencies. This option provides an alternative to the existing Pre-Arrival Review System and Release on Minimum Documentation release processes.
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CBSA states that submission of an IID is voluntary, only includes the data required for CBSA and PGAs to make a border-related decision, and can be used for PGA and non-PGA-regulated goods. In addition, the IID can be sent to CBSA for processing up to 90 days prior to the arrival of the goods at the first point of arrival in Canada or following the arrival of goods.

The following PGA programs are currently available for the IID:

• Import Controls of Agricultural, Steel, and Textiles and Clothing Products (Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada)
• Importation of Consumer Products, Cosmetics, Radiation Emitting Devices and Pest Control Products (Health Canada)
• Importation of Human Drugs, Natural Health Products, and Medical Devices Regulated by the Food and Drugs Act (Health Canada)
• Importation of Controlled Substances and Precursors (Health Canada)
• Importation of Energy-using Products (Natural Resources Canada)
• Kimberley Process – Import of Rough Diamonds (Natural Resources Canada)
• Importation of Human and Terrestrial Animal Pathogens and Biological Toxins (Public Health Agency of Canada)
• Importation of Vehicles except the Appendix F Process (Transport Canada)

According to CBSA, PGA licenses, permits, certificates and other (LPCO) information can be provided on an IID, and validated by PGAs, prior to arrival of the goods. LPCO information that cannot be dematerialized into IID fields may be submitted as digital images via a parallel transmission channel called the Document Image Functionality.

Some PGA program legislation and/or regulations continue to require that a LPCO accompany the shipment into Canada.