MX

Importing Your Pet to Mexico

Relaxed to import

Mexico is one of the more accessible destinations for pet import. SENASICA (the agricultural health authority) manages pet import through a streamlined process. No mandatory quarantine is required for compliant pets, and the documentation requirements are relatively straightforward.

A veterinary health certificate from an accredited vet in the origin country, endorsed by the origin country’s official authority, is the main document required. Mexico City (AICM) and Cancun are the main international arrival airports with established animal inspection processes.

For pets from the USA and Canada, the process is particularly smooth given the proximity and SENASICA’s acceptance of USDA/CFIA-endorsed certificates.

Import Requirements

Microchip

Required (ISO 11784/11785)

Rabies Vaccination

Required. Minimum age: 12 weeks. 30-day wait after vaccination before travel. Must be at least 30 days before import.

Titre Test

Not required.

Quarantine

No quarantine for vaccinated pets.

Import Permit

Required. Issued by: SAGARPA (Federal or State office). Zoosanitary permit required.

Health Certificate

Required. Issued by: Official veterinarian in country of origin. Valid for 30 days from issue. Certificate must list vaccination date.

SENASICA documentation

Mexico requires: a veterinary health certificate issued within 10 days of travel, proof of rabies vaccination (must be current), and proof of internal and external parasite treatment. The health certificate must be endorsed by the official veterinary authority in the origin country (e.g., USDA APHIS for US pets).

Pets arrive at the SENASICA inspection desk at the airport. The process is generally quick for well-documented pets. Mexico does not require a microchip by federal law, but the destination’s rules when you eventually leave Mexico will apply.

Number of pets and import limits

Mexico allows up to 3 pets per person as household goods. More than 3 pets may require a commercial import process, which is significantly more complex. If you’re relocating with multiple animals, confirm the current limit with SENASICA or your airline cargo team before travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

No routine quarantine is required in Mexico for pets arriving with correct documentation. Penalty quarantine may apply if any documentation is missing or incorrect. Get everything right before you travel.

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

Yes, an import permit is required. Apply through Servicio Nacional de Sanidad, Inocuidad y Calidad Agroalimentaria (SENASICA) before booking your flight. The permit must be obtained before travel.

Yes, cats can be imported into Mexico. 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 SENASICA.

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 SENASICA or a pet transport agent for the required certificate format.

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Mexico

  • Difficulty: Relaxed
  • Quarantine: No quarantine for vaccinated pets.
  • Code: MX

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