McMASTER UNIVERSITY

Complete Policy Title: GOODS AND SERVICES TAX (GST) - IMPORTATIONS
Policy Number (if applicable): CT-120
Approved by: COG
Date of Most Recent Approval: October, 1996
Revision Date(s):
Position Responsible for Developing
and Maintaining the Policy:
Director, Purchasing Resources
Contact Department:CUSTOMS & TRAFFIC
DISCLAIMER: If there is a discrepancy between this electronic policy and the written copy held by the Policy owner, the written copy prevails.

POLICY:

  1. PURPOSE

    The purpose of this policy is to outline the impact of the Goods and Services Tax with respect to University purchases which require importation into Canada.

  2. SCOPE

    All importations will attract GST except the following:

    1. settlers effects
    2. prizes and trophies won abroad
    3. tourist literature
    4. goods donated to charities
      (McMaster University is considered a charity)
    5. imported goods valued at under $40.00
      (except magazine and catalogue subscriptions)
    6. warranty replacement parts
    7. zero-rated supplies
    8. certain medical devices
    9. computer software is currently under review

  3. GENERAL

    GST must always be remitted upon importation other than the exceptions listed above. The Importer of Record, the name in which the goods are being cleared under, is responsible for remitting any applicable GST/duty/taxes. If the company you are purchasing these goods from is also the Importer of Record, then we must remit the GST to this company unless otherwise stated in the Purchase Agreement. GST will be applied at the Border upon entry into Canada by the University's Customs Broker. It is advisable to use a Purchase Order when importing goods to ensure that the proper GST rebate is applied to your account. Where a Purchase Order is not used, send a copy of the cheque requisition or the invoice with the applicable GST account number to the Customs & Traffic Unit of the Purchasing Resources Department. GST will also be applicable on all Brokerage charges for services provided.


The electronic copy of this policy is maintained by CIS