TLDR: Bringing your pet to Belize in 2025 is a smooth process when you plan ahead. Apply for your BAHA import permit, secure the proper veterinary documents, and ensure vaccinations and treatments are current. With the paperwork in order, your pet can safely join you in enjoying the laid-back Belizean lifestyle.
If you are moving or staying long-term in Belize, you can bring your pet with you by following a few simple but important steps. Belize is a pet-friendly country, and the process is straightforward once you know what documents are required.
1. Apply for an Import Permit
All animals entering Belize must have an import permit from the Belize Agricultural Health Authority (BAHA).
You can apply by emailing animalhealth@baha.org.bz at least two weeks before travel.
Include in your email:
- Your full name and contact information
- Species, breed, age, and sex of your pet
- Country of origin and travel date
- Port of entry (for example, Philip Goldson International Airport)
The import permit costs BZ$50 (approximately US$25). If you request the permit by fax, there is an additional BZ$25 fee. The permit is valid for one entry within 30 days of issue.
Payment is made at the port of entry to the BAHA officer in either Belize or U.S. dollars.
2. Obtain a Veterinary Health Certificate
Within 14 days of travel, your veterinarian must issue an official health certificate stating that your pet:
- Is clinically healthy and free from contagious diseases or external parasites
- Has no unhealed wounds
- Has been vaccinated and treated for parasites as required
The certificate must be signed by a licensed veterinarian and endorsed by your country’s official veterinary authority, such as the USDA in the United States or the CFIA in Canada.
3. Vaccination and Treatment Requirements
Your pet must meet these vaccination standards before entering Belize:
For Dogs
- Rabies: Must be vaccinated at least 28 days before travel if this is the first vaccination. Puppies must be at least 3 months old before receiving the vaccine.
- Core vaccines: Must be current for distemper, hepatitis, leptospirosis, and parvovirus.
For Cats
- Rabies: Same timing applies as for dogs.
- Core vaccines: Must be current for feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and panleukopenia.
Parasite Treatment
All pets must be treated for internal parasites (endoparasites) within 30 days prior to travel. The product and date of treatment should be recorded on the health certificate.
4. Arrival in Belize
When you arrive, present your import permit, health certificate, and vaccination records to a BAHA officer.
Expect to pay a veterinary inspection fee, usually around BZ$30–BZ$60, in cash.
Your pet will be visually inspected. Quarantine is not usually required unless there are signs of illness or missing documents.
Note: Puppies or kittens younger than three months that are too young for rabies vaccination must remain confined until they can be vaccinated, then kept for an additional 30 days afterward.
5. Flying with Pets
Most major airlines flying into Belize (such as American Airlines, Delta, and United) allow pets either in the cabin or in cargo. Always:
- Confirm airline-specific pet policies and fees
- Use an IATA-approved travel carrier
- Check connecting country regulations if you have layovers
6. Living in Belize with Your Pet
Once you are in Belize:
- Pet supplies and food are easy to find in larger towns and villages. They do always run out of dry cat food first.
- Veterinary clinics are available throughout the country, though services are more reliable in urban areas.
- Keep pets indoors or in fenced areas to protect them from tropical pests and wildlife.
Tip: Register with a local veterinarian soon after arrival. They can help with vaccination schedules, parasite prevention, and any future travel paperwork.
Official Source Used
For the most current and detailed information on bringing pets into Belize, please refer to the Belize Agricultural Health Authority’s official guidelines: