Canada · Cosmetics

Canada Cosmetic Notification

A practical guide to Canada Cosmetic Notification for cosmetics sold in Canada: who it applies to, what to prepare, and the mistakes that cause rejection.

Who needs it
Cosmetics sold in Canada; Brands and importers responsible for the product
Authority
Health Canada
Legal basis
Food and Drugs Act; Cosmetic Regulations
Local representative
A Canadian importer or responsible person is required
Timeline
Notification is required before sale or within the period set by the regulations
Cost
No Health Canada fee; safety assessment costs vary
If you do not comply
Stop-sale orders, seizure, and prosecution

Who needs this

Documents you need

Compliance checklist

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How to comply

  1. Confirm the product is a cosmetic under Canadian rules
  2. Submit the Cosmetic Notification Form within the required period
  3. Prepare bilingual labels
  4. Keep safety data available for Health Canada

Brief for your lab or agent

Copy this into an email, then edit the product and channel.

Request: Canada Cosmetic Notification — Canada
Product category: Cosmetics
Authority: Health Canada
Legal basis: Food and Drugs Act; Cosmetic Regulations

Documents we already have:
  1. Cosmetic Notification Form submission
  2. Ingredient list with INCI names and concentrations
  3. Safety substantiation records
  4. Bilingual label artwork

Questions:
  1. Does our product fall under Canada Cosmetic Notification in Canada?
  2. Which test standards or evidence do you accept?
  3. What is the current fee and lead time?
  4. Is a local representative required, and can you act as one?

Cost and timeline

Notification is required before sale or within the period set by the regulations.

No Health Canada fee; safety assessment costs vary.

Common rejection reasons

Registration, notification, or certification is not the same as approval. Keep the technical file current and make sure the label, listing, and submitted data match.

Official sources

FAQ

Is a Canadian entity required?

The brand or importer responsible for the product must be identifiable and reachable in Canada.

Are both English and French labels required?

Yes. Mandatory label information must appear in both official languages.

How long does Canada Cosmetic Notification take?

Notification is required before sale or within the period set by the regulations.

How much does Canada Cosmetic Notification cost?

No Health Canada fee; safety assessment costs vary.

What happens if I sell without it?

Stop-sale orders, seizure, and prosecution.

Who regulates Canada Cosmetic Notification in Canada?

Health Canada.

Related requirements

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