Excise tax on insurance premiums paid to non-resident insurers
Canada’s Excise Tax Act imposes an excise tax on insurance premiums for contracts entered into with insurers that are not incorporated or formed in Canada. This tax applies to various types of insurance, excluding marine, life, personal accident, sickness, and certain nuclear risk insurance.
Any business based in Canada that enters into or renews an insurance contract with a foreign insurer is liable for reporting and paying Canada’s excise tax. This includes corporations incorporated outside Canada that carry on business within the country.
The excise tax rate is 10% on the net premiums paid or payable under the insurance contract during the preceding calendar year. Businesses must file form B243, Tax on Insurance Premiums Return – Insured, with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). This form details the taxable insurance contracts and the corresponding tax due. Payments are due annually by April 30.
Exemptions to the excise tax
Businesses may qualify for an exemption in specific circumstances. The CRA reviews each application and, if approved, may grant an exemption if the class of insurance was not available in Canada or there was a lack of market capacity.
Exemptions are not automatic; businesses must apply and provide evidence to substantiate their claim.
Broker and agent responsibilities
Brokers and agents who facilitate the placement of taxable insurance contracts must report these details to the CRA. Based on this information, the CRA is able to determine which entities may have obligations to report and pay the applicable excise taxes.
Provincial tax implications for unlicensed insurance coverage
In addition to federal excise tax, provincial premium taxes may be payable where insurance is placed with an unlicensed insurer.
In Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec, and Newfoundland and Labrador, provincial sales taxes may be levied on insurance coverage if it’s acquired from unlicensed insurers. Purchasers of insurance coverage must determine their filing requirements based on risks and exemptions available for each particular jurisdiction in Canada.
Managing compliance with excise tax on insurance premiums
To ensure compliance with tax obligations on insurance premiums, businesses should:
- Maintain accurate records: Keep detailed records of all insurance contracts, premiums paid, and any refunds or adjustments. This will facilitate accurate reporting and help avoid penalties.
- Consult with tax professionals: Engage with tax advisors who specialize in indirect taxes to navigate complex scenarios and ensure all obligations are met.
Navigating the excise tax reporting obligations for foreign insurance can be complex, but with proper understanding and diligent management, businesses can ensure compliance and avoid potential pitfalls. By staying informed and leveraging available resources, businesses can effectively manage their tax responsibilities and focus on their core operations.
How BDO can help
If you have any specific questions or need further assistance, please contact your BDO Indirect Tax advisor. Our team can help you assess your obligations across jurisdictions and ensure compliance with applicable tax rules.
Brian Morcombe, Partner, Indirect Tax Practice Leader
Rouzbeh Ebrahimpour, Senior Manager, Indirect Tax
The information in this publication is current as of Oct. 2, 2025.
This publication has been carefully prepared, but it has been written in general terms and should be seen as broad guidance only. The publication cannot be relied upon to cover specific situations and you should not act, or refrain from acting, upon the information contained therein without obtaining specific professional advice. Please contact BDO Canada LLP to discuss these matters in the context of your particular circumstances. BDO Canada LLP, its partners, employees and agents do not accept or assume any liability or duty of care for any loss arising from any action taken or not taken by anyone in reliance on the information in this publication or for any decision based on it.