Importing a vehicle from the US
Bringing a car up from the States is more paperwork — and, since 2025, more money — than most people expect. This guide covers what it costs, how the RIV program works, and the specific problems that stop people at the border.
Start with the number nobody mentions.
Since April 9, 2025, Canada charges a 25% surtax on vehicles that originate in the United States, and it applies to personal imports — new and used. Individuals get no remission. On the 2026 remission order it runs through at least April 8, 2027. See the full cost breakdown →
Is this guide for you?
— You’re bringing a vehicle from the United States into Canada (not moving one between provinces)
— You want to know the real landed cost before you commit, or
— You’ve hit a snag: recall clearance, a lien on the US title, a missed inspection window, or an older vehicle
Buying a car that’s already registered in Canada? That’s a different process — start with the buyer’s guide.
What it really costs
The 25% surtax, duty, GST, excise taxes and the RIV fee — with CBSA’s worked example.
Should I even import right now?
An honest read on the surtax before you spend a dollar.
Common problems
Should I even import right now?
The 25% surtax on US-origin vehicles, and who really pays it.
My car was built in Japan / Germany — what do I pay?
No US-origin surtax, but duty, GST and excise taxes still apply.
The manufacturer won’t give a recall clearance
No recall clearance means you cannot import. What to try.
There’s a lien on the US title
US Customs won’t let the car leave without a lienholder letter.
I missed the 45-day RIV inspection window
Re-inspection, and the export-or-destroy endgame if it can’t pass.
My vehicle is 15+ years old
Exempt from the RIV program — but still taxed, and the province decides.
Related guides
General information, not legal, tax or customs advice. Rates and orders change — confirm current amounts with CBSA and the CRA. Sources: CBSA, Transport Canada, the Registrar of Imported Vehicles (riv.ca), CRA, and US Customs and Border Protection. Last updated: July 2026.