Sukkot is a Jewish holiday that lasts 7 days and usually occurs on different dates each year. In 2026, Sukkot is observed from sundown on September 25 to after nightfall on October 2. Travel associated with the holiday may occur in the days leading up to and following the observance.
Some travellers may bring lulavs into Canada during the Sukkot holiday. A lulav may include:
- etrogs (citrus fruit)
- palm branches
- willow branches
- myrtle branches
As these plant materials can carry pests or diseases, they are regulated by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). Whether you are arriving by land or by air, you must declare them to the Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) upon entry to Canada. Following inspection, CBSA officers may permit the items entry into Canada if they are found to be free of pests and diseases.
What you need to know
Under normal circumstances, certain plant materials that comprise a lulav, including willow branches (Salix spp.), may be subject to additional phytosanitary requirements, such as:
- the requirement for a Phytosanitary Certificate
- restrictions based on pest-regulated areas
- branch diameter
- in some cases, prohibition of entry into Canada
The following outlined import conditions represent a temporary exemption that facilitates the importation of lulavs for personal ceremonial or religious use during the holiday of Sukkot:
- lulavs are for personal use only and must accompany the traveler at the time of entry into Canada. Commercial imports are not permitted
- a Permit to Import is not required
- a Phytosanitary Certificate is not required
- the authorized period for import is 7 days prior to the beginning of Sukkot through to 8 days following the end of the holiday (in 2026, from September 18 to October 10)
- lulavs must be free from insect and disease pests
If insect pests or diseases are found on any of the items that make up the lulav, the lulav will be prohibited from entering Canada - travelers must state the origin of the willow (Salix spp.)
- willow branches from Europe are prohibited
- willow branches contained in the lulav, including any leaves and buds, must be dry and not be capable of growing
- willow branches for Sukkot are for personal use only and cannot be used for propagation