Country Compliance
Costa Rica Pet Import Requirements
Official veterinary regulations, microchip standards, rabies rules, and breed restrictions for entering Costa Rica.
1. Microchip & Identification
Not required but is recommended.
2. Rabies Vaccination
Vaccinations must be at least 14 days prior to the date of travel. Costa Rica requires a valid rabies vaccine. No waiting period to enter. 3 year vaccines are accepted.
3. Titre Tests & Bloodwork
Not for dogs and cats, other animals like ferrets and rabbits require lab test.
4. Quarantine Requirements
Not for dogs and cats. Rabbits and other pet animals require quarantine in origin before coming to Costa Rica.
Birds and Horses will do home quarantine upon arrival.
5. Breed Restrictions
Wildlife - Case by case
It´s against the law to have wild animals as pets.These are the only exceptions for birds:
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Serinus Cararia domestica |
Canario doméstico |
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Agapornis Roseicollis |
Inseparable de Namibia |
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Melopsittacus Undulatus |
Periquito Australiano |
|
Mymphicus Hollandicus |
Cacatua Ninfa |
Done-for-You Service
Breed rules in Costa Rica can mean a border denial.
Our IPATA-certified team verifies your specific breed against Costa Rica's current import rules and manages every document — so you arrive cleared, not turned away.
Get a Costa Rica Relocation Quote6. Customs & Import Rules
Licensed broker must apply for import permit.
Customs clearance only from Monday to Friday. Saturday clearance must be coordinated in advance. The state vet doesn´t work on Sundays.
Import permit cannot be obtained by pet owner or individual that is not registered as a licensed broker in Costa Rica.
Licensed broker must apply for import permit.
Customs clearance only from Mondays to Saturdays. The state vet doesn´t work on Sundays.
Common Questions
Costa Rica pet travel — frequently asked
Are there breed restrictions for pets entering Costa Rica?
Yes, Costa Rica enforces breed restrictions for incoming pets. Review the Breed Restrictions section on this page for the specific breeds affected, or contact our team for a breed-specific compliance assessment.
Does Costa Rica require quarantine for dogs and cats?
Yes, quarantine requirements apply for pets entering Costa Rica. See the Quarantine Requirements section for holding periods, conditions, and approved facilities.
What documents do I need to bring my pet to Costa Rica?
Pets entering Costa Rica typically require an ISO 11784/11785-compliant microchip, a valid rabies vaccination, and a health certificate from an accredited veterinarian, plus a rabies titre (antibody) test. Requirements vary by origin country — check each section above for the most current rules.
Pet Travel Guides
Where are you heading in Costa Rica?
Each city guide covers hotels, vets, experiences, and airport concierge— fully coordinated with Costa Rica's import requirements above.
San José
SENASA-compliant documentation from permit to APHIS endorsement — no quarantine, weekday arrivals essential.
Full San José pet travel guideLiberia
SENASA-compliant arrival at LIR — the gateway to Guanacaste's national parks and Pacific beach trails.
Full Liberia pet travel guidePopular Airlines
Airlines flying pets to Costa Rica
Each airline has its own breed restrictions, weight limits, and cargo embargo windows. Check policies before you book.
