October 16, 2026
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has updated its plant health import requirements to clarify the requirements for importing certain ant species into Canada and simplify permit applications. Invasive ants can harm ecosystems by reducing native ant populations and displacing other arthropods. They can also become a nuisance in natural and protected environments, including affect crop production and lead to economic losses.
The requirements for importing invertebrates are set out in the CFIA directive D-12-02: Import Requirements for Potentially Injurious Organisms (Other than Plants) to Prevent the Importation of Plant Pests in Canada.
Appendix 1 of the directive has been updated to add Section 10, dedicated to ants. This section lists 11 ant genera that the CFIA has identified as posing a risk to plant health in Canada based on previous risk evaluations.
These ants may only be imported with a CFIA permit for specific purposes, such as exhibition, and must be kept under plant pest containment conditions. Importing these ants for personal or commercial purposes is prohibited.
To import these ants or any other ant species not listed in Appendix 1, you must apply to the CFIA for a permit under the Plant Protection Act. For convenience, applicants may request authorization to import all ant genera listed in Section 10 of Appendix 1 by referencing that section in the application. Applications are reviewed by the CFIA before a decision is made on whether to issue a permit.
For more information about import requirements and how to apply for a permit, visit the CFIA's Importing and handling invertebrates and micro-organisms page. If you have questions, contact CFIA-IAS_ACIA-EEE@inspection.gc.ca.