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Mexico (MX)

Mexico is one of the world's most important expat destinations, especially for US and Canadian retirees, remote workers, entrepreneurs, families and lifestyle migrants.

Capital: Mexico City
Region: Americas
Language: Spanish
Currency: MXN (MX$)
Cost of living: Very affordable (index 38)
Emergency: 911
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Bringing Pets to Mexico

Requirements, costs and process for relocating with your pets.

Microchip
Not required
Health certificate
Not required
Import permit
Not required
Quarantine
Not required

Vaccinations

Rabies vaccination — required for dogs and cats 3 months and older; must be current at time of entry Internal and external parasite treatment — documented within 6 months before arrival Core vaccinations (distemper, parvovirus, hepatitis for dogs; FVRCP for cats) — recommended and may be checked by airline

Restricted Breeds

No national breed ban for import. Condominium by-laws, housing rules, and municipal ordinances vary widely. Airlines may restrict brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds as cargo.

💰 Costs

Rabies vaccination: USD 20–60. Parasite treatment documentation: USD 30–80. Vet health certificate (not legally required but sometimes requested by airline): USD 50–150. Airline pet cabin fee: USD 75–200. Cargo hold: USD 150–400 depending on airline and route.

🐕 Dog Tax / Registration

No national annual dog registration tax in Mexico. Some municipalities charge a nominal local registration fee — confirm with your alcaldía or municipio.

Register with a local vet within the first weeks of arrival. Major Mexican cities (CDMX, Guadalajara, Monterrey, Puerto Vallarta, San Miguel de Allende) have well-equipped veterinary clinics. Heartworm prevention is important in coastal and tropical areas. Year-round tick and flea prevention recommended.

📋 Relocation Process

1. Ensure rabies vaccination is current (administered at least 21 days before travel; pets under 3 months are exempt). 2. Obtain documented parasite treatment (internal and external) within 6 months before arrival — have the vet record this. 3. Mexico has not required a health certificate since SENASICA updated rules in December 2019, but some airlines still request one — check with your carrier before travel. 4. At arrival, proceed to the SENASICA/OISA inspection point — inspectors check the animal briefly for visible signs of illness or parasites; a vet note may be requested for visible skin conditions. 5. Up to 3 pets per traveller can enter without a special import permit; 4 or more requires prior SENASICA authorisation. 6. Get written landlord or condo permission before signing any lease.

Mexico is generally pet-friendly in expat-heavy areas, but rental apartments can be restrictive — always get written pet permission before committing to a lease. No national microchip requirement for entry from abroad, but chipping is strongly recommended for identification and is required if you later want to bring the pet back to the US or EU. Heat, street dogs (callejeros), ticks, and fireworks during holidays require planning. Bring a supply of any prescription medications from home as some brands may not be available locally.