PetGrit
Estimate — confirm with official authority

Flying to Mexico with a pet

Reference notes dated: September 2026 · Official authority: USDA APHIS — Pet travel from the United States to Mexico

Cat beside pet travel documents, microchip scanner, and a carrier

Entry requirements at a glance

Microchip
Not required
Rabies vaccine
For dogs and cats originating in and proceeding from the U.S., check the current SENASICA entry instructions and your carrier's vaccination-document requirements. Carry existing vaccination records; do not substitute a rabies certificate for the dog-specific screwworm inspection certificate.
Health certificate
Effective August 3, 2026, pet dogs from the U.S. must carry the NWS Inspection Certificate for Pet Dogs Moving from the United States to Mexico, signed by a USDA-accredited veterinarian and issued no more than 5 days before entry. Pet cats from the U.S. do not need a health certificate and are inspected by SENASICA on arrival.
Rabies titer test
The current APHIS instructions for U.S.-origin pet dogs and cats do not list a rabies titer test. Confirm requirements separately if the pet's origin or itinerary differs.
Quarantine on arrival
SENASICA inspects pets on arrival. Parasites, wounds, or signs of disease can require treatment, additional checks, or a hold at the inspection office; release is not guaranteed by having documents.

Step-by-step process notes

These instructions are for pets originating in and proceeding from the United States. Dogs and cats have different document requirements from August 3, 2026. Bring a clean carrier and follow SENASICA's rules for bedding, toys, and food. For dogs returning to the U.S. from Mexico, separately arrange the USDA-required screwworm freedom certification and meet CDC and destination-state rules.

Confirm with the official authority

This page summarizes Mexico's pet-import requirements as of September 2026. Pet-import rules change. Always verify with the official government authority before travel.

USDA APHIS — Pet travel from the United States to Mexico

Build your travel record

Record your documents, outstanding questions and dates confirmed by your vet or carrier. Save a copy, download a travel record and update it after each reply. The tool does not calculate legal deadlines or issue certificates.

Build my Mexico checklist

Useful guides

USDA health certificate, step by step Microchip and rabies rules

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