Your four-legged family members can absolutely come to Costa Rica with you. The process is straightforward if you follow the steps. Here's your complete guide.
Requirements for Dogs and Cats
Vaccinations (Required) - **Rabies:** Must be administered at least 30 days before travel but not more than 1 year prior - **Dogs:** DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza) - **Cats:** FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia)
Health Certificate - Issued by a USDA-accredited veterinarian (for US travelers) - Must be issued within 14 days of travel - Endorsed by USDA APHIS (in the US) - Or equivalent authority in your country
SENASA Import Permit - SENASA is Costa Rica's animal health authority - Apply online for an import permit before travel - Cost: approximately $15 - Processing: 3–5 business days
Step-by-Step Process (from the US)
1. 3–4 weeks before travel: Ensure vaccinations are current and get any boosters needed 2. 2 weeks before travel: Visit your vet for the health certificate 3. 10 days before travel: Get the health certificate endorsed by USDA APHIS 4. 1 week before travel: Apply for SENASA import permit online 5. Day of travel: Bring all paperwork in your carry-on. Present to SENASA officials upon arrival in Costa Rica
Airline Rules
Cabin (Small Pets) - Most airlines allow pets under 8 kg (carrier included) in cabin - Cost: $100–$200 per flight - Carrier must fit under the seat
Cargo (Larger Pets) - Required for pets over 8 kg - Cost: $200–$500 depending on size and airline - Climate-controlled cargo hold - Direct flights recommended
Airline-Specific Policies - **United:** Cabin and cargo - **American:** Cabin only (suspended cargo for pets) - **Southwest:** Small pets in cabin only - **Copa:** Cabin and cargo - **Avianca:** Cabin and cargo
Important: Airlines restrict pet travel during extreme temperatures. Summer flights may be embargoed for cargo pets.
Arriving in Costa Rica
1. Clear Immigration normally 2. Proceed to SENASA inspection (usually in the baggage area) 3. Present: health certificate, vaccination records, SENASA permit 4. Inspector may briefly examine your pet 5. Done! No quarantine required for dogs and cats from most countries
Veterinary Care in Costa Rica
Costa Rica has excellent veterinary care: - Emergency 24-hour clinics available in San José area - Regular vet visits: $30–$50 - Spay/neuter: $50–$100 - Dental cleaning: $80–$150 - Specialty care available for most conditions
Living with Pets in Costa Rica
- Most rentals accept pets (ask before signing)
- Dog-friendly parks and beaches are common
- Heartworm prevention is recommended year-round (tropical climate)
- Flea/tick prevention is essential
- Some tropical diseases (like leishmaniasis in certain areas) require awareness
- Pet food (imported brands) is available but expensive — local brands are affordable and good quality
Tips from Pet-Owning Expats
1. Fly direct if possible — less stress on your pet 2. Arrive during cooler hours — morning or evening flights 3. Bring medications for the transition (anti-anxiety if needed) 4. Find a vet immediately upon arrival 5. Microchip your pet before traveling 6. Bring enough of their current food for 2–4 weeks while transitioning
Your pets are family — and they'll love Costa Rica as much as you do. Contact us if you have questions about the relocation process.
