Travel

Use the drop down menu below to find a country's rules and requirements for importing pets.

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Requirements for pet travel are set by the destination country. If you are you travelling to another country and bringing along your pet you’ll need to meet the animal health requirements of the country you are visiting. Your local veterinarian can help you work through the pet export process. This can involve getting a health certificate, updating vaccinations, completing disease testing, and having your paperwork reviewed and endorsed by APHIS.

If you are taking your pet out of the United States to another country, whether permanently or for a visit, you should do the following:

1. Contact the APHIS, Veterinary Services (VS) District Office of the State from which your pet will be transported. Your Area Veterinarian-in-Charge can provide you with the current regulations, tests, required forms, documents, and inspections. Find a VS District Office for your state

2. Check with the embassies of the destination countries as to specific requirements that must be met before a pet may be brought into the country. Find foreign embassies and consulates in the U.S.

Know the Rules of the Destination Country

Each country has its own regulations regarding live imports, aimed at keeping out diseases and invasive species. All countries require basic vaccinations and official proof of your animal's good health before letting it in. Some countries require a specific health certificate they have developed. Some countries require your pet to use the US-origin international health certificate APHIS FORM 7001 ("United States Interstate & International Certificate of Health Examination for Small Animals"). Download APHIS FORM 7001

Health requirements and certificates may change at any time, so it is important that you check for the most current regulations before exporting your animals or traveling with your pet. International Animal Export Regulations and a List of Countries

International Health Certificate

To obtain a health certificate you must have your animal examined by a veterinarian. If the animal meets the destination country’s requirements, your veterinarian can issue the health certificate. Please contact your veterinarian to obtain a correct and properly completed export health certificate. If your veterinarian has questions on which health certificate to use please have your veterinarian contact your local Veterinary Services (VS) District Office. The health certificate is then endorsed by a USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) Veterinary Services (VS) official veterinarian.

To save time and effort, please contact your local VS District Office to determine the best way to get your documents endorsed. Options generally include mailing your documents or scheduling an appointment with the Area Office. You do not need to bring your animal or pet to the VS Area Office.

Prepare Well in Advance for Traveling

Tell your veterinarian about your travel plans as soon as possible. Your pet will need veterinary appointments and paperwork completed before travel. Some countries require blood tests at least 6 months before departure to prove that your pet is vaccinated against rabies.

Frequently Asked Export Questions and More Information