Hi,
Just to be clear, the N550 is not a dedicated night vision optic. It is digital, much like a camera, as such it can be used both in daytime and at night. The Gen 1, Gen 2 and above are all dedicated night vision.
My comment was that in comparision to a Gen 2 unit the N550 is not bad. Opinions vary greatly, just go to any of the optics websites !!, but until Gen 1 or Gen 2 prices come down, the N550 has a niche.
All of these systems are legal here, But sorry I really couldn't help you with the canadian regs,
good luck in finding what you need !
RSF