Planning to travel internationally with your pet? Whether you’re relocating abroad, going on vacation, or importing animals for breeding, you’ll likely need an animal health certificate. This essential document proves your pet meets the health requirements of your destination country—but navigating the certification process can feel overwhelming.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about animal health certificates, from what they are and why they matter to how to obtain one for your furry companion.
What is an animal health certificate?
An animal health certificate is an official document issued by a licensed veterinarian that confirms your pet is healthy and fit to travel. It verifies that your animal has received required vaccinations, passed necessary health examinations, and meets the import regulations of your destination country.
Think of it as a passport for your pet. Just as you need proper documentation to cross borders, countries require proof that incoming animals won’t introduce diseases or parasites into their populations.
These certificates typically include:
- Your pet’s identification details (microchip number, breed, age, and physical description)
- Vaccination records (particularly rabies)
- Results from recent health examinations
- Treatments for parasites or other conditions
- Your contact information and destination details
The specific requirements vary significantly depending on where you’re traveling and what type of animal you’re transporting.
Why do you need an animal health certificate?
Countries worldwide use animal health certificates to protect their agricultural industries, native wildlife, and human populations from infectious diseases. Without proper documentation, your pet could be quarantined, denied entry, or even returned to your country of origin at your expense.
Beyond international travel, you might also need these certificates for:
- Interstate travel within countries with strict animal movement regulations
- Participation in livestock shows or exhibitions
- Commercial breeding operations
- Importing animals for agricultural purposes
Airlines also commonly require health certificates before allowing pets to board, regardless of destination requirements. Most carriers insist on documentation issued within 10 days of travel.
Types of animal health certificates
Not all animal health certificates are created equal. The type you need depends on your animal and destination.
International health certificates
These documents meet the import requirements of foreign countries. For pets traveling from the United States, the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) must endorse certificates after a veterinarian completes them. This endorsement confirms the veterinarian’s credentials and that the certificate meets international standards.
The European Union has particularly strict requirements, often mandating specific EU health certificates for dogs, cats, and ferrets entering member countries.
Interstate health certificates
When traveling between states within the U.S., you may need a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI). Requirements vary by state, with some requiring certificates for all animals, while others only regulate certain species or have no requirements at all.
Livestock and commercial certificates
Moving livestock, horses, or animals for commercial purposes requires specialized certificates. These often include additional testing for diseases specific to agricultural animals, such as brucellosis in cattle or equine infectious anemia in horses.
How to obtain an animal health certificate
Getting an animal health certificate requires planning ahead. Here’s the step-by-step process:
Research destination requirements
Start by checking the import regulations for your destination country. Visit the country’s official agricultural or customs website, or contact their embassy. Each nation sets its own rules regarding:
- Required vaccinations and waiting periods
- Mandatory blood tests or treatments
- Quarantine requirements
- Restricted breeds or species
For U.S. travelers, the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) website provides country-specific requirements and links to foreign government resources.
Schedule a veterinary examination
Book an appointment with an accredited veterinarian—ideally one familiar with international travel requirements. This exam must typically occur within 10 days of your departure date, though some destinations require examinations within specific timeframes.
During this visit, your veterinarian will:
- Perform a complete physical examination
- Verify your pet’s microchip is readable
- Confirm vaccinations are current
- Administer any required treatments or tests
- Complete the health certificate paperwork
Bring your pet’s vaccination records and any specific forms required by your destination country.
Obtain USDA endorsement (if required)
For international travel from the United States, most countries require USDA endorsement of your health certificate. After your veterinarian completes the certificate, you must submit it to a USDA Veterinary Services office for review and official stamp.
This process can take several business days, so plan accordingly. Some USDA offices accept mail submissions, while others require in-person visits or appointments.
Gather additional documentation
Beyond the health certificate itself, you may need:
- Proof of rabies vaccination (often required as a separate document)
- Import permits from your destination country
- Breed registration papers
- Microchip documentation
Keep copies of all documents and store originals in a waterproof folder you can easily access during travel.
Common animal health certificate requirements
While specifics vary by destination, certain requirements appear consistently across most international animal health certificates.
Rabies vaccination
Nearly every country requires proof of current rabies vaccination for dogs, cats, and ferrets. Your pet must typically be vaccinated at least 21 days before travel, but not so long ago that the vaccination has expired.
Some rabies-free countries, like Australia and New Zealand, have additional requirements including blood titer tests to confirm adequate antibody levels.
Microchip identification
The international standard for pet identification is an ISO 11784/11785 compliant 15-digit microchip. If your pet has a different microchip type, you may need to provide your own microchip reader during travel.
The microchip should be implanted before rabies vaccination so the vaccine can be linked to the chip number.
Parasite treatments
Many countries require treatment for internal and external parasites within specific timeframes before arrival. Your veterinarian will document these treatments on the health certificate, including the product name, dose, and date administered.
Health examination timing
Most destinations require the veterinary examination to occur within 10 days of departure. However, some countries specify different windows—anywhere from 5 to 30 days. Double-check the exact requirement for your destination.
How much does an animal health certificate cost?
Costs for animal health certificates vary based on several factors:
Veterinary examination and certificate preparation: $50-$300, depending on your location and the complexity of requirements
USDA endorsement fee: $38-$173 per certificate (as of 2024), varying by whether you submit in person or by mail
Additional tests or treatments: Blood tests, parasite treatments, or special vaccinations can add $100-$500 to your total cost
Rush processing: If you need expedited USDA endorsement, expect to pay premium fees
Budget at least $200-$500 for the complete process when traveling internationally with a pet. Livestock or commercial animal certificates often cost significantly more due to additional testing requirements.
Tips for a smooth certification process
Avoid last-minute stress by following these recommendations:
Start early: Begin researching requirements at least 2-3 months before your travel date. Some countries require blood tests with mandatory waiting periods after vaccination.
Choose the right veterinarian: Not all vets are accredited to issue international health certificates. Find an USDA-accredited veterinarian experienced with travel documentation.
Keep vaccination records organized: Maintain a complete, up-to-date file of your pet’s medical history. Missing documentation can delay the certification process.
Confirm airline requirements: Your airline may have additional health certificate requirements beyond what the destination country mandates.
Plan for the unexpected: Build buffer time into your schedule in case you need to repeat tests or if processing takes longer than anticipated.
Make copies: Bring multiple copies of all documents when traveling. Keep one set with your pet and another with your personal belongings.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is an animal health certificate valid?
Most animal health certificates are valid for 10 days from the date of veterinary examination for international travel. However, the certificate remains valid for 30 days for interstate travel within the United States. Always verify the specific validity period for your destination.
Can I get an animal health certificate online?
No. An animal health certificate requires an in-person physical examination by a licensed veterinarian. While some preliminary forms might be available online, the examining veterinarian must see your animal and complete the certificate based on that examination.
What happens if my pet fails the health examination?
If your veterinarian identifies health issues during the examination, your pet cannot receive a health certificate until the problem is resolved. Depending on the issue, you might need to postpone your travel plans until your pet recovers and can pass the exam.
Do emotional support animals need health certificates?
Yes. Despite their designation as emotional support animals, they’re still subject to the same health certificate requirements as other pets when traveling internationally. Recent policy changes have also eliminated many special accommodations for emotional support animals on airlines.
Can I use the same health certificate for my return journey?
Generally, no. You’ll need a new health certificate issued by a veterinarian in the country you’re visiting for your return trip. Research the export requirements of your destination country before you travel so you’re prepared for the return journey.
Preparing your pet for international adventures
Obtaining an animal health certificate is a crucial step in traveling safely with your pet. While the process requires time, planning, and financial investment, it protects both your animal and the communities you’re visiting from disease transmission.
Start your research early, work with an experienced veterinarian, and carefully follow all requirements for your specific destination. With proper preparation and documentation, you and your pet can enjoy your international journey with confidence and peace of mind.
For the most current information on international pet travel requirements, visit the USDA APHIS website or contact the embassy of your destination country directly.
