Country Compliance
Mexico Pet Import Requirements
Official veterinary regulations, microchip standards, rabies rules, and breed restrictions for entering Mexico.
1. Microchip & Identification
Not required, but recommended.
Notice: If the Microchip is listed in the IHC, it will be scan by SENASICA and if it doesn’t match with the declare number the IHC will be rejected.
2. Rabies Vaccination
Required for pets older than 12 weeks/ within validity of the applied product / No waiting period to arrive to Mexico after application. / 3 years vaccines are accepted.
If the pet arrives without valid rabies vaccine, it can be applied in customs under supervision of the Official vets.
3. Titre Tests & Bloodwork
Only required for exotics, birds, cattle.
If, at customs inspection, Dogs or cats are found with Ticks, samples will be taking and send to an official lab for testing, depending on the results the authority instruct procedures. This is under the cost of the importer.
4. Quarantine Requirements
SENASICA, is the one who sets the sanitary requirements to import any animal, so at their requirement sheets they stablish the quarantine conditions, times and lab tests need by each specie.
Dogs & cats: None
Other Species: Yes, check with your agent or at the link, the specifications for each species.
Please notice that for some exotic pets a quarantine at home can be allow, but for others they need to be at authorized facilities. So to get the permit or book a space can take several weeks.
5. Breed Restrictions
If the pet is pregnant, has a geriatric condition or is under treatment (i.e.: for skin injuries and / or infections such as scabies, dermatomycosis, dermatophilosis, alopecia or similar) this info must be in the IHC and in case of treatment: you must present the diagnosis and treatment indicate by its Vet (must issue on letterhead and with the number of his professional license (or equivalent). A photocopy of the ID will be accepted attached to the certificate.
Rabbits: forbidden from any part of the world.
Live fish: predatory species, of any size, are forbidden.
Birds: Mexico isn’t open to all the countries due to salmonella and bird flu, so for birds it is require to check with your agent if the importation is allow or an importation permit can be obtained.
Done-for-You Service
Breed rules in Mexico can mean a border denial.
Our IPATA-certified team verifies your specific breed against Mexico's current import rules and manages every document — so you arrive cleared, not turned away.
Get a Mexico Relocation Quote6. Customs & Import Rules
The Mexican Customs Law and its rules specify the Customs clearance procedures and its relation with other laws (such as animal health and wild life) you can check it (Spanish version) at the shared link:
Mexican Customs Website:
Passengers:
https://anam.gob.mx/pasajeros/
Since January 2022 the Mexican Customs has move from the SAT (Tax Administration System) to ANAM (Mexican National Customs Agency).
Common Questions
Mexico pet travel — frequently asked
Are there breed restrictions for pets entering Mexico?
Yes, Mexico 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 Mexico require quarantine for dogs and cats?
Yes, quarantine requirements apply for pets entering Mexico. See the Quarantine Requirements section for holding periods, conditions, and approved facilities.
What documents do I need to bring my pet to Mexico?
Pets entering Mexico 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 Mexico?
Each city guide covers hotels, vets, experiences, and airport concierge— fully coordinated with Mexico's import requirements above.
Popular Airlines
Airlines flying pets to Mexico
Each airline has its own breed restrictions, weight limits, and cargo embargo windows. Check policies before you book.
