Pet Import Regulations in Costa Rica

All pets traveling to Costa Rica are admitted only with complete required documents. These include a Pet Immigration Form to be secured from Costa Rica's Ministry of Agriculture and valid within one month from issue.

That will be presented to customs upon arriving at the airport in Costa Rica. An International Health Certificate should be issued by a veterinarian in the country of origin no later than 10 days before the pet's departure and must indicate that the animal is free from diseases.

Cats have to be vaccinated against Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia and Rabies at least 30 days prior to arrival while dogs should receive vaccinations for Distemper, Parvo, Leptospirosis, Corona Virus, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza and Rabies, also no earlier than 30 days before arrival. All animals are also required to come with a Pet Quarantine Permit to be secured from the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Control in Costa Rica. For all pet imports, a document stating the market value of these animals may also be required.

Bringing livestock will require a permit from the Agriculture Ministry's Animal Sanitation department while exotic animals need to come with a health certificate from a local vet stating they are not afflicted with any disease and that proper vaccinations have been given. Endangered animals may also be allowed to enter but not until completing a long and complicated process and passing strict regulations.

Compared to European countries, Costa Rica's pet import regulations are less stringent but there are rules, nevertheless, that must be followed for animals to enter the country without hassle for the owner.