Mexico Pet Import Guide: SENASICA Requirements, Health Certificates, and Entry Rules

Mexico is one of the more accessible countries for pet relocation. The documentation requirements are lighter than many countries, and there is no mandatory quarantine – making it a relatively stress-free destination for pet owners, provided the paperwork is sorted.

SENASICA

Pet imports to Mexico are managed by SENASICA (Servicio Nacional de Sanidad, Inocuidad y Calidad Agroalimentaria), the agricultural health authority. Inspectors at airports and land borders carry out checks.

What dogs and cats need for Mexico

• ISO microchip (strongly recommended; Mexico aligns with international standards)
• Valid vaccinations: rabies (no specific pre-travel window required, just current/valid), plus core vaccines (distemper, parvovirus, leptospirosis for dogs; panleukopenia and respiratory viruses for cats)
• Health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within 10 days of travel

Mexico does not currently require a government endorsement on the health certificate for most origins, though some airlines ask for one. Check with your airline.

No titre test, no import permit, no quarantine.

Arriving by air

Most major Mexican airports handle pet arrivals without difficulty. Pets arriving as cargo are inspected on arrival. The process typically takes 30-60 minutes when documentation is complete.

Airlines serving Mexico include Aeromexico, American Airlines, Delta, United, British Airways codeshares, and many others. Each has its own rules for pets – check the pet policy for your specific carrier before booking.

Arriving overland

Land border crossings into Mexico are an option for pets, particularly for travellers from the USA. The main crossings at Tijuana, Ciudad Juarez, Laredo, and others process pets regularly. Have printed copies of all documentation. Some crossings are busier than others – Tijuana in particular can have long waits.

Returning to the USA with a Mexico-acquired pet

If you adopt or acquire a pet in Mexico and want to bring it to the USA, be aware of the 2024 CDC dog import rules. Dogs from Mexico are subject to the requirements for high-risk countries. An unvaccinated puppy or dog vaccinated while in the USA will need a CDC import permit. Plan ahead.

Source

SENASICA (Mexico): gob.mx/senasica (verified May 2026).