Import rules when travelling with pets
All existing requirements for importing and exporting animals continue to apply. However, due to broad travel restrictions and limitations on non-essential travel, individuals, rescue organizations and adoptive families should postpone travel for the purpose of importing any animals, as their travel is being considered non-essential at this time. Additional information about animals and COVID-19 is available on the Government of Canada's website.
All animals entering Canada must meet import requirements including domestic and non-traditional pets. Import conditions can include testing and quarantine, before entering Canada.
Non-traditional pets such as pigs, sheep, goats and poultry (including, but not limited to, ducks and pigeons) represent the same level of animal disease risk as farmed animals and must therefore meet the same import conditions.
CFIA can refuse entry to Canada to any animal presented for importation.
Pet import and travel requirements apply to:
- animals entering Canada permanently
- animals in transit through Canada on their way to a final destination
- animals entering Canada for a temporary visit
- Canadian animals returning to Canada
Learn about import requirements related to these animals:
- Dogs
- Cats
- Amphibians and reptiles
- Birds (from the United States)
- Birds (from countries other than the United States)
- Fish
- Foxes, skunks, raccoons and ferrets
- Horses (from the United States)
- Primates
- Pigs
- Poultry
- Rabbits
- Rodents (guinea pigs, gerbils, mice, rats, chinchillas, hamsters, etc.)
- Scorpions, spiders and other organisms that do not require a permit to import
- Sheep and goats
If the animal you wish to import is not listed, please refer to the Automated Import Reference System (AIRS).
Tips for travelling with your pet
Request an import permit
If you need a permit to import your pet, request it online through the My CFIA.
For further information please visit the Centre of Administration (CoA).
- Date modified: