🇺🇸 Pet Import to United States

The United States has relatively accessible pet import requirements compared to many countries, but regulations were tightened by the CDC in 2024. Dogs entering the US must have a current rabies vaccination if they were vaccinated outside the US; however, the CDC's enhanced dog import requirements now mandate that dogs vaccinated abroad arrive with a USDA-endorsed health certificate issued at a US embassy or consulate, or meet specific alternative documentation requirements. Dogs that have been in a high-risk rabies country within 6 months of travel are subject to additional CDC screening. Microchipping is not a federal entry requirement for cats or dogs, though it is strongly recommended. Cats do not require rabies vaccination for entry but must appear healthy. Dogs arriving from countries affected by screwworm must be treated and certified by a USDA APHIS-approved veterinarian before entering. The process is managed by USDA APHIS (Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service) and the CDC. There is generally no mandatory quarantine for healthy, vaccinated pets arriving from most countries, though CBP (US Customs and Border Protection) officers may inspect animals on arrival. State-level regulations also apply: Hawaii operates as a rabies-free state and requires a separate, stringent import process including titer testing and a minimum 5-day supervised confinement. Birds require CITES documentation and US Fish and Wildlife Service import permits. Most exotic animals, reptiles, and wildlife face strict federal restrictions under the Lacey Act and Endangered Species Act.