FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions

 

  1. Is there a cost to apply for a coasting trade licence?

    There is no cost to apply for a coasting trade licence. However, there are costs associated with Transport Canada safety inspections, which vary by vessel type. For further information contact Transport Canada Marine Safety (see Contact Information). Certain taxes and duties may also apply.

  2. How do I get a coasting trade licence?

    Details on how to make an application for a coasting trade licence can be found on the Licensing Process page.

  3. How long does it take to get a coasting trade licence after I apply?

    The time required to process applications can vary, particularly if a Canadian ship is offered. There are also processes associated with employers acquiring work permits for temporary foreign workers who are part of a ship's crew. This typically involves a labour market opinion from Human Resources and Skills Development Canada and the issuance of work permits by Citizenship and Immigration Canada. Applicants are encouraged to make their applications early.

    Further details on processing times can be found in the Canadian Transportation Agency Guidelines Respecting Coasting Trade Licence Applications.

  4. Are there other federal requirements for ships engaged in the Canadian coasting trade?

    This website focuses on how to temporarily import a ship into the coasting trade. Other federal requirements may apply. For example, each vessel involved in commercial activities in Canadian waters is required by the Statistics Act to report them to Statistics Canada. This applies equally to both Canadian marine carriers and those Coasting trade licence applicants who receive approval to use foreign ships in the Canadian coasting trade. This information can be submitted using the S.1 Domestic Shipping Report.

  5. What is the penalty for a ship that contravenes the Coasting Trade Act?

    A ship that engages in Canadian coasting trade in contravention of the Coasting Trade Act is guilty of an offence and is liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding fifty thousand dollars. Where such an offence is committed by a ship on more than one day or is continued by the ship for more than one day, it is deemed to be a separate offence for each day on which the offence is committed or continued.

  6. Is there a limit on how long a foreign or non-duty paid ship may remain in Canada’s coasting trade?

    Yes. The Coasting Trade Act stipulates that the maximum period of validity for a coasting trade licence is 12 months.