Visible lasers for canada cannot exceed 5 mW. In order for a civilian to own and operate an IR laser legally, it must be designated as a class 1 IR laser.
This is governed by the FDA, and Health Canada.
As a Canadian, it is VERY easy to file the paperwork to purchase a obtain a civilian level ITAR item from the USA. The fee is $250.00 USD per request, this is an administration fee with the US State Department. Places like rampart charge $300.00. (The extra $50.00 is their fee for doing the paperwork for you)
However this is something you can just go and do yourselves, you will be subject to an international background check, most likely Interpol which will look for criminal charges, as well your name is most likely run through the US databases for hits. Obviously only DHS Agents and members within that department will know the details of the background checks.
Step 1:
Figure out what product you want to buy that is restricted under ITAR: LDI, ITT, Ops-Core, L3, Wilcox, Norotos, etc etc.
Step 2:
See if the company handles direct international sales, and see if they will assit you in acquiring an export permit for said item. Ops-Core is now set up for international sales of it's Ballistic Helmet with an export permit, although the waiting list is extremely long.
Step 3:
Get your permit for the item you want to purchase.
http://www.pmddtc.state.gov/licensing/forms.html
For Temporary export, you would fill out and submit a DSP-61 (Unclassified Defense Articles) Otherwise you would fill out and submit a DSP-5 (Unclassified Defense Articles).
After 6-8 weeks, pending your background check you will have a permit to export that particular item. Your name will be registered with the Department of State, and if you transfer the item to anyone you will be obligated to fill out a DSP-6 form to transfer the item from person to person. (Start the process over again)
There, now everyone knows - good hunting!