Taking a pet from the United States to Costa Rica

What the USDA APHIS page for Costa Rica says about exporting a pet there.

What this destination requires

Dogs and Cats An import permit issued by Costa Rica is required for unaccompanied pets.

Requirements for traveling with your pet are described in the health certificate.

APHIS endorsement of the health certificate is required after it has been issued by a USDA Accredited Veterinarian.

International Health Certificate (293.

Read the source

This page summarises the USDA APHIS page Pet Travel From the United States to Costa Rica. That page is the authority; read it in full before you travel.

Open the APHIS page for Costa Rica →

Source: USDA APHIS — https://www.aphis.usda.gov/pet-travel/us-to-another-country-export/pet-travel-us-costa-rica. Record retrieved September 2026; APHIS last modified this page February 06, 2026.

This page summarises a U.S. government page and is not legal or veterinary advice. Rules change; confirm the requirements with APHIS and your destination country before you travel.