Importing Your Pet to Chile

Chile has relatively clear pet import rules administered by SAG (Servicio Agricola y Ganadero). Dogs and cats from most countries require a microchip, valid rabies vaccination, and a health certificate endorsed by SAG in the origin country. No pre-import permit is needed for most origins.

Chile takes its biosecurity seriously, particularly because it borders Peru, Bolivia, and Argentina where some animal diseases circulate. The health certificate and vaccination records are checked carefully on arrival. SAG has a streamlined process and the documentation requirements are clearly published on the SAG website.

Santiago’s Arturo Merino Benitez Airport handles most pet imports into Chile and has a SAG inspection area.

What SAG requires on arrival in Chile

On arrival, SAG officials will inspect: the original health certificate (endorsed by the origin country’s official vet authority), vaccination records (rabies and required others), microchip documentation.

The health certificate must typically be issued within 10 days of travel and must be endorsed by SAG at the origin side (i.e., the Chilean consulate or SAG representative in your origin country countersigns it). This double-endorsement requirement catches some owners by surprise. Check the SAG website for the current endorsed certificate format for your specific origin country.

Brief SAG holding period on arrival

Pets arriving in Chile from some origins may be subject to a brief SAG inspection period. If your documentation is complete, this is usually resolved quickly. In some cases, SAG may require a short observation period (typically up to 5 days) at an approved facility if there are any documentation gaps or health concerns.

To avoid delays, have all original documentation organised and ready for SAG inspection on arrival. Do not carry only copies.