Pet Travel from the UK to Mexico: Dog & Cat Import Requirements

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.

Step 10: Travel & Arrival in Mexico

On arrival:

• Mexican authorities will review your Export Health Certificate

• Vaccination documentation may also be checked

Ensure you travel with:

• Original EHC

• Original vaccination certificate​

Ready to Start Your Pet’s Mexico Travel Paperwork?

If you’re planning to travel from the UK to Mexico with your dog or cat, we can help make the process clear, organised, and stress-free.

Complete our enquiry form and we’ll review your pet’s details, travel dates, vaccination history, and certification requirements so we can guide you through the next steps.

Ready to get started? Click below to begin your Mexico pet travel enquiry.

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