Moving to Mexico with a Pet

Mexico consistently ranks among the top three destinations for North American expat relocations, and for good reason: the process of bringing a pet is among the least complicated of any major destination.

What SENASICA actually requires

SENASICA (the National Service of Agro-Food Health, Safety and Quality) is Mexico’s food and animal safety authority. For pet imports, the requirements are:

  • A health certificate issued by a licensed vet within 10 days of travel
  • Current rabies vaccination (record on the certificate)
  • Other core vaccinations recorded (distemper, parvovirus, hepatitis for dogs; feline viral rhinotracheitis, panleukopenia, and calicivirus for cats)
  • The animal is free from signs of disease
  • No mandatory advance import permit for companion animals from most countries

That is it. There is no mandatory titre test, no quarantine, and no government endorsement requirement from most origin countries.

Arriving in Mexico

On arrival at a major airport (Mexico City MEX, Cancun CUN, Guadalajara GDL, Puerto Vallarta PVR, and others), a SENASICA inspector will briefly review your health certificate and may check your pet’s microchip. A small inspection fee (typically USD 5 to 30) may apply. If your certificate is in order and your pet appears healthy, clearance is quick.

Where to live with your pet in Mexico

Mexico City: Dog ownership is very high in the capital. Dog parks, groomers, and pet-friendly restaurants are common. Vet care in Condesa, Polanco, and Santa Fe is excellent.

Puerto Vallarta and the Riviera Nayarit: Popular with North American expats. Strong dog culture, beaches (though beach rules vary), and a well-connected expat vet network.

Merida and the Yucatan: Growing expat community, very pet-friendly culture. Heat can be intense, so air conditioning is important for thick-coated breeds.

San Miguel de Allende: Small but affluent expat community. Good vet access, cooler altitude climate.

Health considerations in Mexico

After arrival, work with a local vet on a Mexico-appropriate booster schedule. Diseases such as ehrlichiosis, leptospirosis, and heartworm are present in many regions. Regular parasite treatment is essential, particularly in coastal and tropical areas.

Official sources:

  • SENASICA Mexico: gob.mx/senasica
  • USDA APHIS Mexico: aphis.usda.gov

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Mexico is one of the more straightforward countries for pet import. No advance permit is required from most origin countries. A health certificate issued within 10 days of travel by a licensed vet is the main requirement, along with current rabies vaccination. SENASICA officers at major international airports carry out a brief inspection on arrival. Most dogs are cleared without any issues if the health certificate is correct.

Yes. Mexico does not restrict import by breed or size through its SENASICA process. Large dogs travel as hold cargo on most airlines serving Mexico. Airlines may have their own size and weight limits for hold-cargo dogs, so confirm with your carrier. Once in Mexico, large dogs are widely accepted in houses and many outdoor spaces.

Veterinary care quality varies by location. In major cities (Mexico City, Guadalajara, Monterrey) and popular expat destinations (San Miguel de Allende, Puerto Vallarta, Merida, Oaxaca), there are well-equipped vet clinics familiar with international standards. In rural areas, access is more limited. Most expat community groups maintain a list of trusted local vets.

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