Moving to Canada from Australia? Here’s What You Need to Know
Whether you’re relocating for work, study, or a new lifestyle, moving to Canada from Australia is an exciting transition. But when it comes to shipping your belongings and navigating customs regulations, things can get complicated quickly. That’s where OSS World Wide Movers can help. With decades of experience in international removals to Canada, we make the process simple, stress-free and fully compliant with Canadian laws.
This quick-start guide is designed to walk you through each step of the journey, from what documents you need to what you can and can’t bring, and how to ensure a smooth handover at the border.
Who Can Bring Their Belongings to Canada Duty-Free?
If you’re moving from Australia to Canada, your visa type determines whether you can import personal belongings free of duty and taxes. Most people relocating to Canada fall under one of the following categories:
| Type of Resident | Key Condition | Time limit on the goods |
|---|---|---|
| Permanent residents / “Settlers” (incl. new PR, spouse visa) | You owned & used the items for 6 + months before shipping | Once imported, you may keep or dispose of them |
| Temporary residents (work visa, student visa, Super Visa) | Items are for your everyday use in Canada only | Everything must leave Canada when your visa ends |
| Seasonal / holiday-home owners | You own or lease a Canadian home for ≥ 3 years | Goods can’t be sold for the first year |
Essential Paperwork You’ll Need With You
A key step in your move to Canada from Australia is getting the right paperwork sorted. Keep two printed copies of each document in your carry-on luggage and store a digital backup on your phone or cloud storage. You’ll need:
- Passport (all family members)
- Canadian visa, eTA or work permit
- “Goods to Follow” customs forms
- B4E (personal effects accounting document)
- Detailed inventory list – English or French, itemised & valued
- Proof the goods are used – receipts, photos, utility bills etc.
- Receipts for any brand-new items you’re shipping
- Alcohol declaration if you’re sending wine, spirits or beer
Moving Tip
When you arrive in Canada, tick “Yes – I have goods to follow” on your e311 arrival card and hand all documents to the customs officer at the airport before exiting.
Getting Cleared at the Border – What to do Step by Step
Arrive In Canada
Show your passport and visa at the airport
Declare Your Shipment
Declare your shipment with the B4E form and inventory.
Customs Stamps Your Paperwork
This is your authorisation for OSS to deliver your goods
Shipment Arrives by Air or Sea
OSS hands the stamped forms to customs for final release.
What Items Are Restricted or Banned When Moving To Canada?
Canada has strict import rules, especially for biological goods and vehicles. Here’s what to look out for when preparing for international removals to Canada:
| Item | Rules | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Alcohol | Allowed, but every province charges duty, GST/HST & provincial mark-ups. | Large cellars need an import permit. |
| Motor Vehicles | Must meet Canadian safety standards. Duty is 6.1% on cars built outside AUS, US, and MX. | Work visa holders can temporarily bring a car; permanent residents must own it for at least 6 months |
| Pets (dogs & cats) | Microchip + rabies vaccination (over 3 months old). A health certificate is recommended. | Clearance is done in the passenger terminal if they fly with you. |
| Firearms | Strictly controlled; many sporting guns are refused. | Never pack them. Check with the Canadian Firearms Centre first. |
| Food | Meat, dairy & fresh produce face heavy restrictions. | Do not include food in your shipment. |
| Plants & Soil | Generally prohibited without a CFIA permit. | Do not include in your shipment. Even pot-plant soil can cause delays. |
| Absolutely Prohibited | Narcotics, counterfeit goods, baby walkers, lawn darts with pointed tips, yo-yo balls with long cords, | Confiscated on arrival, and fines may apply. |
Fees You Might Still Pay After Importing Your Goods
High-value single items (worth over CAD10,000 each) – duty & GST apply on the amount above CAD10,000.
Air-conditioning excise on imported cars. The fee is CAD100.
CFIA inspection fee if your container is selected (common for wooden furniture and garden tools).
Pre-Move Checklist for People Moving from Australia to Canada
Planning is key when figuring out how to move to Canada from Australia. Use this checklist to stay organised:
Book OSS World Wide Movers 4-8 weeks in advance. This ensures there’s plenty of time to prep.
Book international moving insurance through OSS. Click here to contact OSS about insurance.
Clean outdoor gear, bikes and barbecues. CFIA is strict on soil and plant debris.
Arrange a Canadian address for delivery.
Apply for your eTA (if you’ll fly in on an Australian passport).
Make The Move To Canada From Australia With OSS
At OSS World Wide Movers, we specialise in international removals to Canada, offering door-to-door service with expert customs support, insurance options, and full container or shared load solutions to suit your budget.
When you’re moving from Australia to Canada, you need a partner who understands both sides of the process. With OSS, you can relax knowing your belongings are in safe, experienced hands.