Getting a pet from Mexico to United States is a step by step process, and each stage has its own timing. Allow around 4-8 weeks and follow the steps in order to stay on track.
Start with the step by step process below and build your plan …
In short:
Preparing to move a pet from Mexico to United States
typically takes around 4-8 weeks.
Regulations checked
Prepared and reviewed by Pet Transport Global Editorial Team
Step by step
The Mexico to United States pet import process
Each step must be completed in a precise sequence. Start early. We manage every stage and deadline.
1
Understand CDC classification: Mexico is HIGH-RISK for dog rabies. Check current CDC Dog Import requirements at cdc.gov/importation
Responsible: Owner
Research now before booking. Rules changed significantly in 2024.
2
Dogs: confirm microchip is in place. If dog was vaccinated in Mexico, verify the CDC requirements for foreign-vaccinated dogs from high-risk countries.
Responsible: Your vet
Verify now. Missing microchip or incorrect documentation can result in dog being refused entry.
3
Cats: confirm microchip is present (recommended but not federally required for cats). No CDC restrictions for cats.
Responsible: Your vet
Verify before travel.
4
Complete CDC Dog Import Form online if required for your dog's situation
Responsible: Owner (online at cdc.gov)
Before travel.
5
SENASICA-authorised Mexican vet issues health certificate valid 30 days
Responsible: Mexican official vet
Within 30 days of travel.
6
Book airline cargo or cabin space. Confirm pet-accepted status on your specific route.
Responsible: Owner or agent
4-6 weeks ahead.
7
Travel to USA via CDC-approved airport of entry if required
Responsible: Owner/airline
On travel date.
Requirements
What your pet needs to enter United States
Every item below must be in place before your pet can travel. We manage and verify each one.
Microchip
Required for dogs imported into the USA from high-risk countries. Mexico is classified by the CDC as a high-risk country for dog rabies. Microchip required before US entry.
Rabies vaccination
Dogs from high-risk countries: complex requirements. See CDC Dog Import Rule below.
Import permit
Not required for personal pet dogs (fewer than 3). Required for commercial imports.
Health certificate
USDA APHIS may require a health certificate for some entries. Verify current requirements.
Export permit (Mexico)
No formal export permit for companion cats and dogs.
Costs
What this route typically costs
Mexican health certificate: approximately MXN 1,000-3,000 (USD 55-165)
Microchip (if not already in place): MXN 300-600
Airline cargo Mexico City to US city: approximately USD 150-500 depending on carrier and size
Pet transport agent fee (if used): USD 300-800
Total typical range: USD 300 to USD 900 for a straightforward personal pet move
Critical points to read before you book
The CDC changed its dog import rules in 2024. Mexico is classified as HIGH-RISK for dog rabies. Dogs born in Mexico or vaccinated in Mexico face specific documentation requirements before US entry. Check the current CDC Dog Import page at cdc.gov/importation for the latest rules.
Dogs from high-risk countries must arrive at a CDC-designated airport of entry. Not all US airports accept dog imports from high-risk countries. Confirm your arrival airport before booking.
Cats are not subject to CDC dog import restrictions. A healthy, vaccinated cat with a standard health certificate can enter the USA from Mexico without the CDC documentation steps that apply to dogs.
This route is also used by people moving between Mexico and the US for work or study. The rules apply equally regardless of whether you are a US citizen or a Mexican national.
Airlines
Carriers approved for this route
Not all airlines accept live animals on this route. We know which carriers to use and how to book.
AMERICAN
American Airlines
Mexico City (MEX) to multiple US cities. Small pets in cabin on some routes. American Airlines Cargo for larger pets. Popular route for pet moves.
Cabin and Cargo
AEROMEXICO
Aeromexico
Direct flights to many US cities. Small pets in cabin. Cargo service via Aeromexico Cargo.
Cabin and Cargo
UNITED
United Airlines
Mexico to US routes including Houston and Chicago. Small pets in cabin. United Cargo for larger animals.
Cabin and Cargo
DELTA
Delta
Mexico City and other Mexican airports to US hubs. Cargo service available.
Cabin and Cargo
How United States handles incoming pets
United States 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.
What experienced owners do
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.
Use an official, government-authorised vet for the health certificate, not just your usual clinic. Many destinations only accept certificates signed by an approved vet.
FAQ
Common questions about Mexico to United States pet transport
Not necessarily. Dogs from high-risk countries (including Mexico) may be able to enter if vaccinated outside the USA, but specific documentation is required. The CDC’s Dog Import Form process exists for dogs vaccinated abroad in high-risk countries. Check the current requirements at cdc.gov/importation. In some cases, dogs vaccinated in Mexico may need to arrive at a CDC-registered facility for a waiting period. The rules are complex and worth checking carefully before you travel.
Dogs from high-risk countries must arrive at a CDC-designated airport. Not all US airports are on the approved list. When booking, confirm with the CDC and your airline that your chosen arrival airport accepts dog imports from Mexico. Miami, Houston, Los Angeles, New York, and Atlanta are among the airports that typically handle these arrivals.
No. The CDC high-risk country dog import rules do not apply to cats. Cats entering the USA from Mexico need a current health certificate from a Mexican vet and are typically cleared without the additional documentation steps that dogs require. Hawaii is an exception: cats going to Hawaii need the HDOA 5-day or standard quarantine programme.
Yes. The same CDC requirements apply at land border crossings as at airports. For dogs from high-risk countries, the microchip and documentation requirements must be met regardless of whether you cross by air, land, or sea. Many owners driving across the border with pets are surprised that the rules are the same as for air travel.
Airline guides
American Airlines
Aeromexico
United Airlines
Delta
Breed guides
Check breed-specific airline rules and country bans.