Taking a Pet FROM the U.S. to Another Country (Export)

Your destination country sets requirements for pets entering the country, which can change at any time. Most countries require pets to arrive with a health certificate (also called an international health certificate, a veterinary health certificate, a veterinary certificate, or an export certificate). You must verify the country requirements each time you plan to travel with your pet.

The process for taking a pet bird or other exotic animal out of the United States may involve multiple agencies, including the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service's (APHIS) Veterinary Services (VS) Program, U.S.Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). You must meet ALL requirements for each of these agencies before traveling with a pet bird or exotic animal. If you are bringing your pet bird back to the U.S., plan ahead with meeting the requirements for returning.

Airlines and shipping lines establish their own policies to transport pets in addition to the requirements of the federal, state, and local governments. Check with your airline or ship representative to determine what requirements they may have. If you are brining your pet bird back into the U.S., plan ahead with meeting the requirements for returning.

IMPORTANT:

• It is the pet owner's responsibility to make sure their pet has met the requirements of the destination country.
• Failure to meet the requirements may result in problems gaining certificate endorsement (when required) or difficulties upon arrival in the destination country.
• Health certificates must be legible, accurate, and complete.

Click here to select your destination country and view the pet travel health requirements.