Setting up a Non-Resident Importer (NRI) Account
Overview of the service
A Non-Resident Importer means that a company is looking to sell and ship into Canada without having a Canadian entity (physical location in Canada).
Here are the steps to follow as you set-up an NRI account
To become an NRI, a company must apply for a Canadian importer (business) number and GST number (if their overall annual sales are greater than $30,000). For new customers looking to become and NRI we can send them the “Doing Business in Canada” link below:
This link will provide them with a toll free number for CRA that they can call (800) 959-5523 to ask where to get the application and where to send it (all new applications for business/GST numbers must be faxed in with a copy of the company’s articles of incorporation. Turn times on getting an importer number back usually range from 3-6 weeks and CRA will call the contact on the application prior to activating the GST number.
Responding to an Email: How to Help a US Company Get started as an NRI
Reps should be able to talk about what a NRI is and the advantages, but need to be careful on advising them on how to collect/remit tax. That is why you should defer directly to the Canadian revenue agency.
1) Set-up as a Non-Resident Importer. I have attached a brochure on this and the link below will walk you through registering for a business number. You should be able to submit application right through CRA’s website. You will want a RM001 (importer number) and RT0001 (GST number) activated. It will take about 4-6 weeks get an importer number “aka business number” assigned and they will then contact you to confirm that you are ready to start collecting/remitting GST. There is no cost and if you never use it/import anything, there is no recourse or exposure. Click Here.
For any questions on the application process or becoming an NRI feel free to contact the Canadian Revenue Agency “NRI help line” – (800) 959-5525.
Once you have decided to take step 1 and validate that there is business in Canada we can start discussing rates, processes, and how to implement consolidation solutions to get your product delivered throughout Canada.
Thank you,