Under Section 6 of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA), it is a criminal offence to import or export controlled substances without authorization. In simple terms, importing narcotics means bringing illegal drugs into Canada, whether by plane, car, mail, shipping container, or even on your person at the border.

Importation charges apply even if:

• You didn’t personally carry the drugs

• You didn’t know exactly what the substance was

• The amount was small or intended for personal use

The law treats any involvement in the process—even unwittingly—as extremely serious.

Importing narcotics is treated as one of the most severe drug offences under Canadian law. If convicted, the penalties can include:

• Mandatory minimum sentences of 1 to 2 years for Schedule I or II drugs

• Up to life imprisonment for more serious or large-scale importation

• Asset forfeiture, including cash, vehicles, and property

• Lifetime travel restrictions, especially to the U.S.

• A permanent criminal record, which can affect employment and immigration status

The penalties are even harsher if the drugs involved include opioids, cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, or fentanyl.

Most importation cases begin with a border or customs search, often at airports, land crossings, or mail sorting facilities. You may be charged if:

• Drugs are found in your luggage, clothing, or vehicle

• You’ve accepted a package or item from someone else without knowing its contents

• You’ve had your name or address connected to a suspicious shipment

• You were under surveillance or investigation by international authorities

Even if you claim you were unaware of the drugs, knowledge and control are major factors in whether the Crown proceeds with charges—and that's where a skilled defence lawyer is essential.

Importation charges are complex, but they’re not unbeatable. Common defences include:

• Lack of knowledge – You didn’t know you were transporting drugs

• Duress – You were forced or coerced to bring the drugs into Canada

• Charter violations – Unlawful search or arrest at the border

• Procedural errors in the investigation or prosecution

• Challenging the chain of custody and evidence reliability

At Bigioni Law, we dig into every angle—how the evidence was gathered, whether your rights were respected, and whether the prosecution’s case can hold up in court.

Unlike simple possession or even local trafficking, importing drugs is viewed as a serious threat to public safety and international law enforcement cooperation. Judges often hand down lengthy prison sentences to send a message of deterrence.

That means you need a criminal defence lawyer who:

• Has experience with federal drug prosecutions and border-related cases

• Knows how to challenge evidence collected during customs inspections or international investigations

• Can work with expert witnesses or translators if necessary

• Understands how to negotiate with the Crown and build a compelling defence

Bigioni Law has the experience and legal insight to defend your case—no matter how complex.

An importing charge can feel overwhelming. You may be dealing with multiple agencies, facing pre-trial detention, or wondering how a single mistake could ruin your future. You don’t need to figure it out alone.

‍Bigioni Law is ready to stand with you. We offer:

• Confidential, no-obligation consultations

• Clear explanations of your rights and legal options

• Rigorous defence strategies, tailored to the facts of your case

• Trusted, experienced representation every step of the way

Don’t leave your future to chance. Contact Bigioni Law now and take the first step toward protecting your freedom.