Customs Clearance for Pharmaceuticals to and from Canada
We manage the complete customs clearance for Pharmaceuticals to and from Canada. AEO-F certified, experienced with specific permits, certificates, and origin documents for this combination.
For Pharmaceuticals between the Netherlands and Canada require attention on multiple fronts. On one side are the product-specific rules for Pharmaceuticals (HS codes, certificates, possibly DGR). On the other side: the trade regime between the EU and Canada (Derde land met vrijhandelsakkoord) determines which import duties and origin documents apply.
On this page you will find the combination: what specifically applies to Pharmaceuticals, plus what specifically applies to Canada, plus how Aircargo.nl handles this combination daily.
For Pharmaceuticals from or to Canada, you can benefit from the free trade agreement between the EU and Canada. Origin document: REX. With a correct origin declaration, 0% or reduced import duties apply. Note: Pharmaceuticals often have product-specific origin rules (Product Specific Rules). We verify in advance if your shipment qualifies.
Specific Rules for Pharmaceuticals
Pharmaceutical shipments are subject to strict regulations on multiple fronts. Customs requires GMP and GDP-compliant distribution licenses; the IGJ (Healthcare and Youth Inspectorate) oversees product specifications; and narcotics or psychotropic substances require an opium law permit from the CIBG. Temperature excursions are grounds for rejection — ensure comprehensive documentation for the entire chain.
HS Code Examples:
Chapter 30 — pharmaceutical products: 3004.90 other medicines, 3002.41 vaccines, 3006.30 diagnostic reagents. For clinical samples: 3002.12. Importers of medicines are subject to stricter TARIC controls than supplements or medical devices (Chapter 90).
Specific Rules for Canada
CETA — EU-Canada Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement — provisionally in effect since 2017. 0% duties on ~98% of all goods when origin rules are followed. Origin Declaration on the invoice suffices (REX system). Canadian customs (CBSA) is efficient and transparent. Specific registrations apply for agricultural and pharmaceutical products (Health Canada, CFIA).
Typical Documents:
Commercial invoice with REX origin statement, packing list, Air Waybill, possibly CFIA permit for food, Health Canada registration for pharmaceuticals.
Import Duties and Fees for Pharmaceuticals from Canada
Most medicines are subject to 0% import duties in the EU under the Pharmaceutical Tariff Elimination Agreement. Medical devices and non-prescription supplements may incur 2–6% duties. VAT in the Netherlands: 9% for medicines, 21% for cosmetics and supplements.
Under which regime: Canada falls under the “Derde land met vrijhandelsakkoord”. Origin document for preferential tariff: REX. We calculate exactly what you owe in advance and prepare the correct origin document.
With our TST license, we can store pharmaceutical shipments in temporary storage with suspension of duties and VAT for up to 90 days — for example during batch release by your own quality department. Our CWP (customs warehouse) is suitable for longer-term inventory management. ACE (Authorized Consignee) allows direct transfer to our controlled environment without delay at Schiphol.
Key Figures for Pharmaceuticals Canada
Frequently Asked Questions about Pharmaceuticals Canada
How long does customs clearance take for Pharmaceuticals from Canada?
With correct documentation, release usually follows within a few hours at Schiphol. For Canada shipments, we expect 3-5 hours at Schiphol; 2-6 hours on the Canadian side (efficient). Additional inspections (phytosanitary, veterinary, NVWA) may require extra time for Pharmaceuticals — we notify you in advance to minimize waiting times.
What documents do I need for Pharmaceuticals Canada?
For Pharmaceuticals: see the product-specific certificates above. For Canada: see typical documents above. The combination means we gather both sets and coordinate them. You provide the commercial invoice, packing list, and any certificates — we validate and file the declaration.
Can I pay import duties for this flow on a grouped basis?
Yes. Under our DPO permit (Deferred Payment), you can pay import duties and VAT for Pharmaceuticals from Canada on a grouped basis — monthly instead of per shipment.
Which origin document do I use for a preferential tariff?
REX. We prepare this document under our authorization as customs broker, provided the origin rules (including product-specific rules for Pharmaceuticals) are met.
How does your service work in practice?
We provide complete handling: pre-lodgement, import declaration (DMS), any NVWA notifications for Pharmaceuticals, and payment processing under DPO if desired. You get one point of contact for the entire process.
Ready for customs clearance of Pharmaceuticals Canada?
Send us your shipment details for customs clearance of Pharmaceuticals to Canada. We respond within 4 hours with a fixed price.