Can You Import a Chinese EV from the US?

Importing a Chinese EV from the US: Is It Even Possible?

The question keeps coming up on Canadian automotive forums: can you just buy a Chinese EV in the United States and bring it across the border? The short answer is that it is technically possible, but it is an obstacle course of regulatory and financial hurdles. We investigated in depth, and here is what every Canadian needs to know before attempting this adventure. Spoiler: it is probably not the good idea you think it is, but there are some interesting exceptions.

The first hurdle is the Registrar of Imported Vehicles (RIV). Every vehicle imported from the United States must go through this federal programme, which verifies compliance with Canadian safety standards. The base fee is $325 CAD, but that is just the beginning. You also need an inspection at the point of entry, a recall verification, and sometimes modifications to comply with Canadian requirements such as daytime running lights and metric displays.

Customs Tariffs: The Real Headache

[Updated April 2026] This is where things get complicated. If you import an EV manufactured in China via the United States, you face tariffs from both countries. The US maintains a 100% tariff on Chinese EVs (since 2024). Canada replaced its 100% tariff with a 6.1% tariff under a quota system in March 2026 — but this only applies to vehicles imported through official channels under the 49,000-unit quota. Personal imports may still face different tariff treatment, plus the 5% GST and applicable provincial taxes.

In practice, this means a BYD Seal that would cost about $25,000 USD in China could end up costing you over $110,000 CAD once all tariffs, taxes, and import fees are calculated. That is absurd, obviously. Even a used vehicle purchased from an American dealer who paid the US tariff would face the Canadian tariff at the border, making the operation financially senseless for the vast majority of models.

Exceptions and Special Cases

There are, however, situations where cross-border importation can make sense. If you are a Canadian moving back from the United States and have owned a Chinese EV for more than 12 months, you can import it as a personal good without paying customs tariffs. This is the personal goods rule under Transport Canada. You will still need to go through the RIV process and pay inspection fees, but the savings on the tariff are considerable.

Another interesting case involves vehicles from Chinese brands assembled outside China. For example, the Volvo EX30 is designed by Geely but assembled in Belgium. This vehicle is not subject to the 100% tariff because the country of assembly is not China. If you find an EX30 cheaper in the US than in Canada, importing it could be worthwhile. The same logic applies to future Zeekr vehicles potentially assembled in Europe.

The Step-by-Step Process

For those who decide to go ahead anyway, here are the concrete steps. Step 1: verify the vehicle's admissibility on the RIV website. Step 2: obtain a clear American title (no liens or encumbrances). Step 3: at the border crossing, present customs form B3-3 and pay applicable duties. Step 4: have the vehicle inspected at an authorized RIV centre within 45 days of importation.

Step 5: if modifications are required (which is common), have them done by a certified technician and obtain proof of compliance. Step 6: register the vehicle with your province. In Québec, that means the SAAQ. In Ontario, ServiceOntario. In British Columbia, ICBC. Each province has its own additional requirements, and some may require a provincial safety inspection on top of the RIV inspection. The entire process typically takes 60 to 90 days.

Simpler Alternatives for Canadians

Honestly, for the vast majority of Canadian buyers, the best strategy is to wait for Chinese manufacturers to officially launch their vehicles in Canada. BYD, Chery, and Zeekr have all announced plans for the Canadian market. Vehicles sold officially in Canada will already comply with standards, come with local warranty coverage, and be supported by a service network. You will avoid the headaches of importation and have access to government incentives.

If the wait feels too long, consider the alternatives already available. The Volvo EX30, technically a Geely product, is already on sale in Canada starting at $44,900 CAD. The Polestar 2, another Geely group product, offers Chinese-level performance and technology with an established service network. And the Hyundai Ioniq 5, while Korean, delivers value comparable to the best Chinese EVs. Sometimes the simplest solution is the best one.

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