Non-Resident Hunting in B.C.

Non-resident hunters have the opportunity to get out into British Columbia’s world-renowned backcountry and enjoy the natural wonders of our province.

On this page

• Definition of non-resident
• How do I hunt in B.C. as a Non-Resident?
• What types of game (species) can non-residents hunt?
• Guide Outfitters
• Firearm regulations

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Definition of non-resident

Under the Wildlife Act a non-resident is a person who in not a B.C. resident, but:

• Who is a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident of Canada; OR
• Whose only or primary residence is in Canada, and has resided in Canada for the 12 month period immediately before making an application under the Act or doing another thing relevant to the operation of the Act.

A non-resident alien means a person who is neither a B.C. resident nor a non-resident.

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How do I hunt in B.C. as a Non-Resident?

Before hunting in B.C. as a non-resident, you need the following:

• A Fish & Wildlife ID (FWID)
  • You can create your own FWID and apply for credentials yourself or these can be done on your behalf by a licensed guide outfitter
• Residency credentials and hunting credentials
  • A hunting credential is only required if you plan to hunt small game unaccompanied
• A non-resident or non-resident alien hunting licence and applicable licences for those species you intend to hunt
  • Visit Hunting licences and Species licences for more information

You must have hired a guide outfitter, assistant guide outfitter or be named on a Permit to Accompany to hunt big game.

Non-resident hunters must be familiar with B.C. hunting laws and regulations before hunting in B.C. If you plan to hunt in B.C., review the Hunting and Trapping Regulations Synopsis.

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What types of game (species) can non-residents hunt?

Non-residents have the opportunity to hunt both big and small game in British Columbia. All non-resident hunters wishing to hunt big game in the Province of British Columbia are required to be accompanied by a licensed guide outfitter, an assistant guide outfitter hired by a guide outfitter or a resident who holds a Permit to Accompany. All non-resident hunters wishing to hunt small game may do so unaccompanied if they hold an unrestricted non-resident or non-resident alien licence. If you hold a restricted non-resident or non-resident alien licence, you must be accompanied by a guide outfitter or assistant guide outfitter while hunting small game as well.

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Guide Outfitters

A guide outfitter is licensed to guide resident and non-resident hunters in an exclusive guide area with clearly defined and legally described boundaries. Guide outfitters can also employ assistant guides to assist in providing guiding services. Guide outfitters set their own guiding fees.

It is suggested that you contact several guide outfitters in the area of your choice to obtain full particulars regarding:

• Species of game available
• Recommended period to hunt
• Rates
• Services provided
• Reservations

The assurance of a successful and enjoyable hunt is most dependent upon a clear understanding between the hunter and guide outfitter as to what each expects from the other.

A licensed guide may not have more than two hunters in the field at one time.

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Firearm regulations

To bring firearms into Canada for hunting purposes, non-residents from outside of the country must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Declare firearms at the first point of entry into the country

To declare firearms, non-residents must fill out a firearm declaration form which must be confirmed by a Canadian customs officer.