The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention temporarily suspended dog importation from countries with high risk of canine rabies effective July 14, 2021.
This includes dogs that have visited a high-risk country any time in past six months -- even if the dog is arriving from a country not on the list.
The action:
- Ensures safety of dogs imported into the United States
- Protects public health against reintroduction of canine rabies
- Decreases attempts to import inadequately vaccinated dogs
Dog import permits from high-risk countries will be extremely limited and granted case-by-case.
Only specific pet owner types may apply for an import permit.
If you leave the U.S. with your dog, your pet may not be approved for re-entry. Travel is not a valid reason to request an import permit.
Permits will not be given at arrival. Dogs without a permit will be denied entry and returned to the country of departure at the owner’s expense.
There is no appeal for denied applications. Application does not guarantee approval.
At this time, all dogs granted import permits must enter the United States through the live animal care facility at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York City.
Click these links for further requirements and more information.
- CDC’s dog import suspension
- How to apply for an import permit and requirements
- Import permit instructions
- Approved ports of entry (updated by the CDC)
- Click the map for the full list of countries considered high risk for canine rabies
The CDC will periodically review the suspension.
