BR

Importing Your Pet to Brazil

Moderate to import

Brazil’s pet import process is managed by MAPA (Ministério da Agricultura, Pecuária e Abastecimento). The country has specific requirements that include a MAPA-endorsed health certificate, and for some origins, a titre test or additional disease screening.

No mandatory quarantine for pets arriving with correct documentation from approved countries. However, the documentation must be correct in every detail, as Brazilian customs and MAPA take import compliance seriously.

The process typically takes 8-12 weeks from starting veterinary preparation to travel. São Paulo (GRU) is the main international airport with established MAPA animal inspection capacity.

Import Requirements

Microchip

Required (ISO 11784/11785)

Rabies Vaccination

Required. Minimum age: 12 weeks. 30-day wait after vaccination before travel

Titre Test

Not required for dogs and cats.

Quarantine

Mandatory quarantine. 30 days. Facility: MAPA quarantine station

Import Permit

Required. Issued by: MAPA

Health Certificate

Required. Issued by: Official veterinarian. Valid for 14 days from issue

Health certificate endorsement by MAPA

Brazil requires the veterinary health certificate to be endorsed by both the origin country’s official veterinary authority and the Brazilian consulate or MAPA representative in the origin country. This double-endorsement step adds time to the process: allow at least 2-3 weeks for this paperwork.

Some origin countries have simplified arrangements with Brazil. Check with your local MAPA representative or a pet transport agent for the current requirement in your specific origin country.

Arriving in São Paulo

Most international pets arrive at São Paulo Guarulhos International Airport (GRU). The MAPA inspection desk operates during business hours on weekdays. Arranging a weekday daytime arrival avoids the risk of your pet being held overnight. São Paulo’s animal inspection facility is well-equipped and the process is typically completed within a few hours for compliant documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, quarantine is mandatory in Brazil. Your pet will be held for 30 days on arrival. The cost is the owner’s responsibility. Ensure all documentation is in order before travel to avoid extended quarantine.

No, Brazil does not generally require a rabies titre test. Your pet still needs a valid rabies vaccination and microchip. Verify current requirements with MAPA before travel.

Yes, an import permit is required. Apply through Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Food Supply (MAPA) before booking your flight. The permit must be obtained before travel.

Yes, cats can be imported into Brazil. The same microchip, vaccination, and health certificate requirements apply as for dogs. Some rules (such as tapeworm treatment) apply to dogs only. Verify current requirements with MAPA.

A government-issued veterinary health certificate is required, endorsed by the official veterinary authority in your origin country. The certificate must be issued close to the travel date (typically within 7-10 days). Contact MAPA or a pet transport agent for the required certificate format.

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