Question 1

Can I bring my dog or cat to Belize?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Dogs and cats can enter Belize with the proper documentation — an import permit from BAHA (the Belize Agricultural Health Authority), a veterinary health certificate issued within 14 days of travel, and current rabies vaccination. Pets may be allowed entry at all borders with proper notification, however entry by plane through Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport is the most common option.

Question 2

What is the BAHA import permit for pets in Belize?

Accepted Answer

The BAHA (Belize Agricultural Health Authority) import permit is a required document for bringing any animal into Belize — no exceptions. Applications can be submitted to any BAHA office or electronically. Allow a minimum of seven days for processing. When submitted electronically, the permit will be stamped 'Pay Upon Entry' — a fee of BZ$75 (BZ$50 entry fee + BZ$25 port inspection per animal). Your pet will be inspected only at the port of entry named on the permit — always specify Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport.

Question 3

What vaccinations does my pet need to enter Belize?

Accepted Answer

For entry into Belize, your pet needs: a valid rabies vaccination (issued not less than one month or more than one year before travel); for dogs — Distemper, Hepatitis, Leptospirosis, and Parvovirus; for cats — Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calici Virus, and Panleucopaenia; and treatment for endoparasites and ectoparasites (ticks and tapeworm) within 30 days of entry.

Question 4

Does my pet need to be quarantined when entering Belize?

Accepted Answer

There is no quarantine facility requirement for dogs and cats over four months of age that arrive with proper documentation. All pets undergo an inspection at the port of entry by a BAHA officer. Pets under four months of age will be held in home quarantine until they can be vaccinated against rabies, and then for an additional 30 days.

Question 5

What health certificate does my pet need for Belize?

Accepted Answer

BAHA requires an international veterinary health certificate issued by a licensed (USDA-accredited for US travelers) veterinarian within 14 days of your entry into Belize. Note that some airlines require the certificate within 10 days — check your airline's specific requirements. USDA endorsement of the health certificate is not required for Belize.

Question 6

Do I need to contact BAHA before arriving in Belize with my pet?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You must contact BAHA two days before your arrival and provide your travel date, time, and flight number. This ensures a BAHA officer is present when you land to conduct the required inspection. Failure to notify BAHA in advance may cause significant delays at the airport.

Question 7

Can Wrobel & Co. help me bring my pet to Belize?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Wrobel & Co. offers a personalized pet importation assistance service — from customised preparation and paperwork guidance to sending a staff member to personally escort your pet through the BAHA entry process at the airport. If any issue arises at inspection, we are there to help resolve it on the spot.