Bringing Your Beloved Pets to Mexico: What You Need to Know
If you’re planning to bring your furry (or feathered) friends with you to Mexico, whether for a short vacation or a permanent move, understanding the country’s specific rules and procedures for importing animals is crucial. Mexico has well-defined regulations to ensure the health and safety of animals entering the country, and being well-prepared can make the process smoother for both you and your pets.
Importing Dogs and Cats
For those bringing dogs or cats, the process is relatively straightforward. Each person is allowed to import up to two pets without incurring additional fees, provided all zoo-sanitary paperwork is in order. If you plan to bring three pets, they can also be imported at no charge. However, bringing four or more pets will require payment of import processing fees.
Documentation and Health Requirements
Regardless of the number of pets, if you’re arriving from a country other than the United States or Canada, you must have veterinary paperwork that proves the animal is healthy and its vaccinations are up to date. When flying to Mexico, it’s also essential to check airline-specific rules and procedures for pet transportation.
Arrival Procedures
Upon arrival at a Mexican port of entry, you’ll need to visit the SAGARPA desk or kiosk. An official from the Mexican Ministry of Agriculture (SAGARPA-SENASICA) will review your documentation, perform a physical inspection of your pet, and, if everything is in order, issue an import certificate.
Importing Other Types of Pets
In addition to cats and dogs, Mexico allows the importation of several other common pets without duty, provided you stay within the three-pet limit. These include canaries, hamsters, guinea pigs, Australian parakeets, cockatiels, ferrets, parrots, tortoises, and small wild birds (excluding predatory birds). Bringing four or more pets will require payment of import duties, and all pets must pass a zoosanitary inspection at the port of entry.
Airline Restrictions for Other Pets
When flying to Mexico with pets other than cats and dogs, always check with the airline regarding any specific restrictions or requirements they may have in place for transporting these animals.
Special Import Considerations
Importing animals not listed as common pets involves additional steps. This may include obtaining export permits from your home country and import permits from Mexico. Certain species may be banned from export or import, so it’s advisable to contact your nearest Mexican Consulate for detailed information if you plan to import less common animals.
Taking Your Pets Abroad from Mexico
If you’re a resident in Mexico planning to take your pet abroad temporarily, you’ll need to adhere to the requirements of your destination country. Ensure you have the necessary health certificates for your pet, as some countries enforce quarantine regulations upon arrival.
Exit Permit Requirements
Before leaving Mexico with your pet, you’ll need an exit permit from SAGARPA, which includes a visual health inspection. This certificate is valid for six months. If your stay abroad exceeds six months, you’ll need new health certificates and vaccinations from a veterinarian in the country you’re visiting before returning to Mexico.