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Cuba – Importing a Pet

Cuba is a popular destination for tourists, and if you are planning to visit the country, you may want to bring your furry friend along with you. However, before you do so, it is important to know the requirements for importing pets into Cuba. In this article, we will answer some of the most commonly asked questions about bringing pets to Cuba.

Cuba allow the import of pets? Are there any restrictions?

Cuba allows the import of pets. However, there are some restrictions that you should be aware of before bringing your pet to the country. Only dogs, cats, and birds are allowed to be imported into Cuba. Other pets such as reptiles, rodents, and rabbits are not permitted.

Vaccination Requirements in Cuba

There are specific vaccination requirements for bringing pets to Cuba. Dogs and cats must have a valid rabies vaccination certificate, and the vaccination must be administered at least 30 days but no more than one year prior to the date of arrival in Cuba. It is recommended that pets be vaccinated against other common diseases as well, such as distemper and parvovirus.

Importation Application Procedure in Cuba

The process of importing a pet to Cuba can be quite complicated, and it is recommended that you start the process well in advance of your trip. Here are the steps you need to take:

  1. Contact the Cuban embassy or consulate in your country to obtain the necessary forms and requirements for importing your pet.

  2. Obtain a health certificate from a licensed veterinarian in your country. The certificate must be signed by the veterinarian and must state that your pet is healthy and free from any infectious diseases.

  3. Obtain a USDA endorsement on the health certificate. This is required for all pets traveling to Cuba from the United States.

  4. Obtain an import permit from the Cuban Ministry of Agriculture. This can take several weeks to process, so it is important to apply well in advance of your trip.

  5. Upon arrival in Cuba, your pet will be examined by a veterinarian, and you will need to present all of the necessary documents, including the health certificate, USDA endorsement, and import permit.

Quarantine Rules in Cuba

There is no mandatory quarantine period for pets entering Cuba, as long as all of the required documentation is in order and the pet is in good health.

International Travel Scheme for Pets

Cuba is not currently part of the Pet Travel Scheme (PETS), which is an international system that allows for easier travel with pets between certain countries. However, pets can still be brought into Cuba as long as all of the necessary requirements are met.


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Pet Licenses in Cuba

There is no requirement for individuals to obtain a license for their pet in Cuba.

Resources in Cuba

Unfortunately, there is no official government website that provides information on moving pets to Cuba. However, you can contact the Cuban embassy or consulate in your country for more information on the specific requirements for importing pets into Cuba. Additionally, you may want to consult with a professional pet shipping company or veterinarian who has experience with international pet travel to ensure that you have all of the necessary documentation and that your pet travels safely and comfortably.