Registering for the import-export (RM) program accounts transferred to CBSA
The CRA no longer handles the registration and maintenance of import-export program (RM) accounts, which are now managed by the CBSA under the CARM program.
Starting on May 13, 2024, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has stopped registering new import-export program (RM) accounts and processing maintenance requests for existing RM accounts, as per the most recently published Customs Notice 24-18. This significant change now mandates that Canadian importers and other trade chain partners (TCPs) direct all their RM account matters to the CBSA.
With the implementation of the CBSA Assessment and Revenue Management (CARM) program, the CBSA has taken over the responsibility of registering new RM accounts, amending existing RM accounts, and managing system updates. However, it's important to note that the CRA will still be responsible for issuing business numbers (BN9) and registering CRA program accounts.
The system functionality for fully automating the issuance and management of import-export program accounts is expected to be in place by October 2024, with the official external launch of CARM.
Earlier in April, CBSA had announced it would be postponing CARM Release 2 till October 2024. In light of this, the following recently published Customs Notices were canceled:
The previously announced CARM Release 2 cutover period, which was scheduled for April 26 to May 13, 2024, was also canceled. The CBSA will keep using the current system for accounting and payment, and the existing processes will continue as usual.
Moreover, cutover activities for the internal launch of CARM Release 2 will not have a direct impact on CBSA’s external operations or on Canadian importers and other TCPs.
An outage of the ACROSS system, which allows importers and brokers to transmit release and invoice data in electronic format, was previously scheduled for April 27 and April 28 but has now been canceled. To stay informed about upcoming maintenance outages, please refer to CBSA's public bulletins.
Leading up to the CARM October launch, CBSA will reveal the new cutover period dates and instructions at a later date.
The CARM Client Portal (CCP) will remain available for Canadian importers and other TCPs to continue registering with CARM.
If you have any questions or need help creating a new import-export account or amending an existing one, please reach out to one of our trade professionals.