Pet Transport Mexico to Brazil: MAPA Requirements and 2026 Route Guide
The journey from Mexico to Brazil for a pet is straightforward to plan once the key dates are mapped out. Give yourself close to 6-10 weeks so none of the fixed waiting periods catch you out. A 30 day …
In short:
Preparing to move a pet from Mexico to Brazil
typically takes around 6-10 weeks.
Expect 30 days of quarantine on arrival.
A rabies titre test is not required.
Regulations checked
Prepared and reviewed by Pet Transport Global Editorial Team
Step by step
The Mexico to Brazil import process
01
Before vaccinations.
ISO microchip confirmed or implanted.
Responsible: Your vet in Mexico
02
At least 30 days before travel.
Rabies vaccination confirmed current. Administered at least 30 days before travel.
Responsible: Your vet in Mexico
03
Well in advance of travel, ideally 4-6 weeks before.
MAPA import permit applied for.
Responsible: You or a Brazilian import agent
04
Within 14 days of departure.
SENASICA health certificate issued within 14 days of travel.
Responsible: SENASICA-authorised vet in Mexico
05
From arrival date.
30-day quarantine at MAPA facility on arrival in Brazil.
Responsible: MAPA Brazil
Requirements
Brazil entry requirements
Every item below must be in place before your pet can enter. We verify and track each one.
Microchip
ISO 11784/11785 microchip required. Source: MAPA (Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Food Supply), Brazil, 2026.
Rabies vaccination
Current rabies vaccination required. Administered at least 30 days before travel. Source: MAPA Brazil (gov.br/agricultura), 2026.
Rabies titre test
Not required for dogs and cats entering Brazil. Source: MAPA Brazil, 2026.
Quarantine
30-day quarantine at a MAPA quarantine station on arrival. All costs are the owner's responsibility. Source: MAPA Brazil, 2026.
Import permit
Import permit from MAPA required before travel. Apply through the MAPA portal or via a licensed Brazilian import agent. Source: MAPA Brazil, 2026.
Health certificate
Official health certificate from a SENASICA-authorised vet in Mexico, issued within 14 days of travel. Source: MAPA Brazil, 2026.
Leaving Mexico
Export requirements
Export permit
No formal export permit required for companion animals. Source: SENASICA, 2026.
Health certificate
Official zoosanitary health certificate from a SENASICA-authorised vet in Mexico, meeting Brazil MAPA requirements. Source: SENASICA, 2026.
Costs
What this route typically costs
SENASICA health certificate: MXN 1,500-4,000 (approx. USD 75-200)
Cargo fees MEX to GRU: USD 900-3,000 depending on size
IATA-compliant crate: USD 80-300 if needed
Total typical range: USD 1,535-4,640
Critical points
Brazil's 30-day quarantine applies to all imported pets regardless of origin. The MAPA quarantine station must be confirmed in advance and fees paid. Do not assume the quarantine can be waived or shortened.
The MAPA import permit is required before travel. Arriving without it will result in detention and potential return of the animal at the owner's cost.
Airlines
Approved carriers on this route
Airline
Notes
Type
LATAM Airlines
LATAM operates direct routes from Mexico City (MEX) to São Paulo Guarulhos (GRU) and other Brazilian cities. LATAM Cargo accepts pets as manifested cargo. This is the most direct option from Mexico to Brazil.
Cargo Only
Aeromexico
Aeromexico operates MEX to GRU with connections. Aeromexico accepts pets as cargo. A direct or near-direct option for the Mexico-Brazil route.
Cargo Only
Copa Airlines via Panama City
Via Panama City (PTY) hub. Copa Airlines accepts pets as cargo and has strong South American connections. A reliable alternative to direct LATAM services.
Cargo Only
Brazil import rules, explained
Brazil has a clear set of import requirements that are manageable with some planning. Follow them in order and keep an eye on the dates that cannot move.
Practical tips for this move
Work backwards from your travel date and add a buffer. Fixed waiting periods mean a single slipped appointment can push the whole move back by weeks.
Check the airline’s crate size and labelling rules early. An undersized or wrongly labelled crate is a frequent reason pets are refused at check-in.
Ask about temperature embargoes for your travel window. Summer and winter cargo restrictions can rule out certain routes and dates entirely.
Microchip before you vaccinate. The microchip must be in place before the rabies shot for the vaccination to count, and getting this order wrong is the most common and costly mistake.
FAQ
Common questions about this route
No. Brazil does not require a titre test for dogs or cats. You need a microchip, current rabies vaccination (at least 30 days before travel), a MAPA import permit, and a SENASICA health certificate from Mexico issued within 14 days of travel. Source: MAPA Brazil (gov.br/agricultura), 2026.
30 days at a MAPA quarantine station. This is mandatory for all imported pets entering Brazil, regardless of origin. The owner pays the quarantine fees. Source: MAPA Brazil, 2026.
Yes. LATAM Airlines operates direct or near-direct MEX-GRU services and accepts pets as cargo. Aeromexico and Copa Airlines via Panama City are alternatives. All three carriers can handle the Brazil quarantine requirements on arrival.
Airline guides
LATAM Airlines
Aeromexico
Copa Airlines via Panama City
Breed guides
Check breed-specific airline rules and country bans.