Overview of the Export Permit Application Process

Administrative Procedures for Processing of Permit Applications

Processing Time

Every effort will be made to process permit applications quickly. The Export Controls Division takes several factors into consideration when processing export permit applications. In many instances, the processing time can be as short as 10 business days from receipt of the complete application. However, for some items, in particular military and strategic items being exported to some destinations, exporters should allow at least six weeks for processing. In such cases, the Export Controls Division formally consults other government departments on the export permit application and in some cases seeks a decision by the Minister.

Export Permit Status Enquiries

Exporters may obtain information regarding the processing of their permit application by contacting the Export Controls Division at 613-996-2387 and citing the permit application Reference ID number.

Distribution and Retention of Permit Copies

Once the export permit has been approved, the exporter will receive an ‘Exporter's Copy' duly signed and authorized. This copy must be provided to CBSA according to their reporting requirements prior to exportation.

The exporter must retain, at his/her place of business or residence, all documents in respect of each export made under an export permit whether it is a General Export Permit (GEP) or an Individual Export Permit (IEP), for a period of seven years.

Amendments and Extensions of Export Permits

Minor amendments to permits may be allowed in limited circumstances. Requests to amend existing export permits must be made in writing, addressed to the Director, Export Controls Division. All such requests should be received in the Division at least four weeks prior to the expiry date of the export permit.

Items not listed on the export permit, or destined to a consignee not listed on the export permit, may be subject to CBSA detention or seizure. Therefore, exporters must ensure they are in possession of a legally amended export permit before any export takes place.

Access to Information

As a general rule, under the Privacy Act, personal information in the possession of the Government of Canada cannot be disclosed without the consent of the individual concerned, notwithstanding the source of that information. Under the Access to Information Act, disclosure is the operative principle. However, before any information provided on an application is released to the public the applicant will be contacted. It is up to the applicant to demonstrate that its release would damage the applicant's commercial interests. Please refer to these Acts for more information or consult with the Access to Information and Privacy Protection Division (DCP) at the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade (DFAIT) 613-992-1425 to discuss any concerns.

You should also read Legislative and Policy Basis for Export Controls for other important information about the processing of export permit applications.