Permit Applications Open for Canada’s Q4 Steel TRQ Period
The Q4 steel TRQ period does not begin until March 26, 2026, but the permit application window opens on March 11.
Canadian importers of steel goods can begin submitting shipment-specific permit applications today, March 11, 2026, for steel expected to enter Canada on or after March 26, 2026, when the fourth quarter of Canada’s steel tariff rate quota (TRQ) program begins.
Applications may be submitted to Global Affairs Canada (GAC) up to 15 days before the expected date of entry.
Permits are valid for a 30-day window around the declared date of entry, including 5 days before and 24 days after, as per the permit validity change that took effect on September 11, 2025.
Covered steel imports into Canada above quota or without a valid permit remain subject to a 50% surtax.
The quarterly quota structure and covered steel classes continue to be governed by Notice to Importers No. 116 and Schedules 1 and 2 of the Amended Surtax Order, effective December 26, 2025.
Permit applications must:
Supporting documents may also be required, including the commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, and Commercial Accounting Declaration (CAD).
TRQs are administered on a first-come, first-served basis, and if the pre-entry validity period overlaps with the previous quota period, the permit only becomes valid on the first day of the new period.
Extensions are available only in exceptional, unforeseen delay situations and must be requested before the permit expires, with supporting documents.
Unused or expired permits must be cancelled, and permits that are not fully utilized must be amended by submitting a new application reflecting the actual imported quantity.
Retroactive permits may also be issued for goods already accounted for with the CBSA.
At Cole International, we offer trade consulting and customs brokerage services to help Canadian businesses avoid unnecessary surtaxes and delays to their imports.
If you import steel into Canada, reach out to one of our trade professionals for help managing your permit applications, tracking your quotas, and ensuring your documentation is complete.