Can I Get a Refund on My Canadian Fishing License in 2024?

As an avid angler, you may have purchased a Canadian fishing license for the 2024 season, only to find that you’re unable to use it due to unforeseen circumstances. In such cases, you might be wondering if it’s possible to get a refund on your license. The good news is that in certain situations, you may be eligible for a refund, but the process can vary depending on the type of license you purchased and where you bought it.

Refunds for Tidal Waters Sport Fishing Licenses

If you purchased a Tidal Waters Sport Fishing license from Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), it’s important to note that they do not issue refunds for these types of licenses. This means that if you accidentally purchased a duplicate license, registered incorrectly, or the license doesn’t provide your correct information, you won’t be able to get a refund from the DFO.

However, if there was an error in the financial transaction, such as a double payment charged to your credit card, you can contact the DFO by calling 1-877-535-7307 (weekdays 8:00am – 4:00pm) or by emailing fishing-peche@dfo-mpo.gc.ca.

Refunds for Freshwater Fishing Licenses in British Columbia

In British Columbia, the process for obtaining a refund on a freshwater fishing license is slightly different. If you believe you were previously approved for the Disabled Angling Program but your expired license or Certificate of Eligibility has become lost, stolen, or destroyed, you can confirm your eligibility by contacting FrontCounter BC.

To qualify for a refund, you must submit documentation to confirm that you receive one of the benefits listed in Part B of the application. If this documentation cannot be provided, then Part C must be completed by a practicing registered B.C. physician or nurse.

Completed applications should be sent by mail to the Aquatic Ecosystem Branch in Victoria, B.C. or presented in person at any Service BC location. Once your application is approved, you can proceed with purchasing your license online via the Freshwater Fishing E-Licensing system.

It’s important to note that no refunds will be made on licenses purchased at the full price.

Refunds for Fishing Licenses in Other Provinces

If you purchased a fishing license in a province other than British Columbia or for a Tidal Waters Sport Fishing license, the refund process may vary. In some cases, you may be able to request a refund if you withdraw your application before it starts processing or if your application is refused.

To request a refund, you’ll need to use the web form provided by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and provide your receipt number. Eligible refunds can take between 2 and 8 weeks to process.

If you paid for your fishing license at a bank outside Canada, with a bank draft or money order, with a pre-authorized credit card form, or at a visa application centre (VAC), you must use the web form to request a refund.

Factors to Consider When Requesting a Refund

When requesting a refund for your Canadian fishing license, there are a few factors to consider:

– The type of license you purchased (Tidal Waters Sport Fishing, freshwater, etc.) – Where you purchased the license (online, at a bank, at a VAC, etc.) – The reason for the refund request (duplicate purchase, incorrect information, etc.)

It’s important to carefully review the refund policies and procedures for your specific license type and province to ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements and follow the correct steps when submitting your refund request.

In some cases, such as with Tidal Waters Sport Fishing licenses, you may not be eligible for a refund at all. In others, you may need to provide additional documentation or complete a specific form to support your request.

If you’re unsure about the refund process for your Canadian fishing license, it’s best to contact the relevant government agency or department directly for guidance and assistance.