Global Affairs Canada · Import Control List
Electric vehicles from China within the quota
Commercial imports of electric vehicles made in China need a permit for every shipment, within the quota. Apply up to 30 days ahead; the permit is valid for up to 60 days.
To import electric vehicles made in China
Once, before your first shipment
- Import as the vehicles' maker, or as its agent. GAC issues permits to Canadian-resident makers of electric vehicles. A maker outside Canada may appoint an agent.
- Get an EIPA number. GAC's importer number for permits. One form, sent once.
On every shipment
- A GAC permit for every commercial shipment. Even for testing or demonstration. Apply up to 30 days before entry; the permit is valid for up to 60 days.
Are your vehicles covered?
Electric vehicles that originate in China, including kits made there and assembled elsewhere. Electric tricycles, golf carts and mobility scooters need no permit, and neither does a personal import classified under Chapter 98 of the Customs Tariff.
Documents you may need
| Document | When you need it | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Shipment-specific permitIssued by GAC for one shipment | Every commercial import of an electric vehicle made in China, within the quota | Required |
What stops the vehicles at the border
| Stops it when | What to know |
|---|---|
| The vehicles arrive without GAC's permit | Commercial imports without the permit are prohibited. Apply up to 30 days before the vehicles arrive. |
| The period's quota is used up | GAC issues permits first come, first served until the quota is reached: 24,500 vehicles, plus any left from the first period, to 28 February 2027. |
Quota year
- Mar 1A new quota year beginsEach runs to the end of February.
Also check for these goods
| Also check | Who | Where it applies |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicles | Transport Canada | Some of the same HS codes |
| Vehicle emissions | Environment and Climate Change Canada | Some of the same HS codes |
Recent changes
- Sep 1, 2026Quota period two opensNotice to importers 1168
- Mar 1, 2026A GAC permit required for electric vehicles made in ChinaCustoms Notice 26-05
Questions
Do I need a permit to import one for testing?
Yes. Every commercial import needs GAC's permit, including temporary imports for testing or demonstration. A personal import classified under Chapter 98 of the Customs Tariff needs none; for other personal imports, contact GAC.
Which vehicles don't need the permit?
Electric tricycles, and vehicles not made to carry passengers, such as electric golf carts and three-wheeled mobility scooters.
Sources: Global Affairs Canada, CBSA, Justice Laws
- Notice to importers 1168: electric vehicles from the People's Republic of China, Global Affairs Canada, modified 2026-08-28
- Customs Notice 26-05: Permit requirement to import Chinese-made electric vehicles to Canada, CBSA, modified 2026-05-14
- Memorandum D19-10-2: Administration of the Export and Import Permits Act (importations), CBSA, modified 2026-10-22
- Import Control List, C.R.C., c. 604, Justice Laws, current to 2026-10-19
- Import permits, Global Affairs Canada, modified 2025-12-04
Reviewed November 10, 2026.
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