Pet Travel from the UK to Mexico: Dog & Cat Import Requirements
Exporting your cat or dog to Mexico from the UK is a straightforward process when planned correctly, but it does require careful attention to timing and documentation. This step-by-step guide outlines everything you need to know — from vaccinations to certification — ensuring your pet meets all entry requirements and travels without unnecessary stress or delays.
Quick Timeline Snapshot
Typical Timeline for Pet Travel to Mexico:
-
1–3 months before travel
Ensure rabies vaccination is valid and within the required timeframe
-
2–4 weeks before travel
Finalise travel plans and confirm any transit requirements
-
Within 6 months of travel
Ensure internal and external parasite treatment has been administered
-
Within 48 hours of departure
Official Veterinarian appointment for clinical examination and Export Health Certificate (EHC) issuance
-
Day of travel
Travel with original documents (EHC + vaccination certificate)
Step-by-Step Guide: Pet Travel to Mexico from the UK
Step 1: Microchip Identification
Your pet should be microchipped, and the microchip number must match all documentation exactly.
While not always explicitly enforced by Mexican authorities, microchipping is considered best practice and is required for certification accuracy.
Step 2: Rabies Vaccination (Essential Requirement)
Mexico requires a valid rabies vaccination:
-
Must be given at least 15 days before travel
-
Must be within 12 months of export
-
Must be recorded on an official rabies vaccination certificate
This certificate must be attached to the Export Health Certificate.
Step 3: Additional Vaccinations (Recommended)
While not strictly required for certification, it is strongly advised that routine vaccinations are up to date. These are often expected as part of general health checks and can help avoid unnecessary complications at the border.
For cats:
-
Feline panleukopenia
-
Calicivirus
-
Feline herpesvirus
For dogs:
-
Distemper
-
Hepatitis (Adenovirus)
-
Parvovirus
Although these vaccinations are not formally required on the Export Health Certificate, some authorities or airlines may expect pets to be appropriately vaccinated, so ensuring these are up to date is considered best practice.
Step 4: Plan Your Travel Route
Before booking your appointment, confirm:
-
Your departure date
-
Your full travel route (including any transit countries)
Additional documentation may be required depending on your route — even if you remain airside.
Step 5: Export Health Certificate (EHC 3915)
Mexico requires a UK-issued Export Health Certificate (EHC 3915) completed by an Official Veterinarian.
Key timing rules:
-
Clinical examination must be completed within 48 hours of export
-
The certificate must be issued within this same window
At the appointment, we will:
-
Perform a full clinical examination
-
Verify microchip details
-
Review vaccination records
-
Confirm parasite treatment status
-
Issue the completed EHC
Step 6: Clinical Examination (Within 48 Hours)
Your pet must be examined by an Official Veterinarian within 48 hours prior to travel to confirm they are:
-
Clinically healthy
-
Fit to travel
Step 7: Parasite Treatment
Pets must have received internal and external parasite treatment within the last 6 months.
You will need:
-
Proof from your vet OR
-
Treatment administered at the EHC appointment
Step 8: Notifiable Disease Clearance
The Export Health Certificate includes confirmation that the UK meets disease-free requirements.
This is completed by the Official Veterinarian with support from APHA (form 618NDC) where required.
Step 9: Airline Requirements & Fit to Fly
Some airlines require a Fit to Fly certificate, typically issued within a few days of travel.
Airlines may also have specific requirements regarding:
-
Crate size and specifications
-
Number of pets per passenger
-
Breed restrictions
Always confirm directly with your airline.
