Travelling Internationally with Birds, Reptiles, and Exotic Pets: What You Need to Know
The focus on dogs and cats sometimes overshadows the fact that many families travel internationally with birds, reptiles, fish, rabbits, or other exotic species. The rules for these animals are often considerably stricter – and in some cases, travel is simply not possible.
CITES: the international trade framework
The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) governs the international movement of hundreds of thousands of animal and plant species. Many popular pet species are listed:
Appendix I (most restricted – commercial trade banned): includes some parrot species, certain tortoises, some chameleons, large cats Appendix II (regulated – permits required): includes many common parrots (African Greys, macaws, cockatiels), many reptiles, some birds of prey Appendix III: requires certificates of origin
If your pet is a CITES-listed species, you will need:
- Export permit from the country you are leaving
- Import permit from the country you are entering (if required)
- Proof of legal acquisition (captive breeding certificate, purchase documentation)
Without these documents, the animal can be seized at the border, and you may face criminal penalties.
Birds
Parrots are the most common bird species affected by CITES. African Grey Parrots (CITES Appendix I), Blue and Gold Macaws (Appendix II), and many others require permits. Canaries and budgerigars are not CITES-listed and can generally travel with standard health certificates.
Beyond CITES, birds face avian influenza import restrictions in many countries. During outbreaks, import bans may be in place. Check with the destination country’s agricultural authority before planning travel.
Australia, New Zealand, and some other countries have strict biosecurity rules for birds that go beyond CITES. Some countries do not permit bird imports at all outside of commercial licensed facilities.
Reptiles
Many popular reptile species (bearded dragons, leopard geckos, blue-tongue skinks, some tortoises) are subject to CITES controls. Blue-tongue skinks, for instance, require CITES documentation depending on species. Veiled chameleons require Appendix II permits.
Some countries ban the import of reptiles entirely, or restrict certain species for biosecurity reasons. Australia is particularly strict about reptile imports.
The practical reality
For most exotic pet species, international relocation is:
- Complex and paperwork-intensive
- Time-consuming (permits can take months)
- Expensive (permit fees, specialist transport)
- In some cases, simply not possible
If you are seriously considering travelling internationally with an exotic pet, contact a specialist exotic animal transport agent well in advance – ideally 6-12 months before your move date.
Source
CITES trade database: cites.org (verified May 2026). APHA wildlife trade licensing (UK): gov.uk/guidance/cites-permits-and-certificates (verified May 2026).