Mozambique (MZ)
Portuguese-speaking East African country with 2,500 km of Indian Ocean coastline, extraordinary marine parks, growing LNG energy sector, and low cost of living for expats in Maputo.
Bringing Pets to Mozambique
Requirements, costs and process for relocating with your pets.
Vaccinations
Restricted Breeds
💰 Costs
Import permit (DINAP): MT 500–2,000. Government veterinary health certificate (in Mozambique): MT 1,000–3,000. International vet fees for export health certificate (home country): equivalent of USD 100–300. Microchip implantation (if not already done): USD 30–80. Airline pet fees: in-cabin (small pets under 8kg) USD 100–250; in hold (large pets) USD 200–500 depending on airline and route. Pet transport specialist (Nairobi/Johannesburg routing): USD 500–2,000+.
📋 Relocation Process
1. Ensure your pet has an ISO 11784/11785 microchip implanted BEFORE rabies vaccination is administered. 2. Administer rabies vaccination at least 21 days before travel (and within 12 months of entry). 3. Administer all other required core vaccinations and record in pet health book. 4. Apply for an import permit from DINAP (Direcção Nacional de Actividades de Pecuária) — submit passport copy, microchip number, vaccination records, and breed/species details. Allow 2–4 weeks. 5. Within 10 days of travel, obtain an official health certificate from a government-accredited vet in your home country confirming the pet is healthy and vaccinations are current. 6. Have the health certificate officially endorsed/legalised by your country's government veterinary authority. 7. Obtain a Portuguese translation of all documentation if your home country uses a non-Portuguese language. 8. On arrival in Mozambique, declare your pet to customs and present all documents to the veterinary inspection officer at the port of entry. 9. Register your pet with a local vet in Maputo within 30 days of arrival.
Mozambique is a tropical country with significant veterinary risks not present in temperate climates: (1) Rabies is endemic — keep vaccinations current and avoid contact with stray dogs and wildlife. (2) Ticks are a serious hazard — use veterinary-grade tick prevention (Frontline, Bravecto, or equivalent) monthly. Tick-borne diseases including babesiosis, ehrlichiosis, and tick bite fever are common in Mozambique and can be fatal to dogs without prompt treatment. (3) Heartworm and other parasites — monthly preventative medication is essential. (4) Snake encounters — the Mozambique spitting cobra (Naja mossambica) and other venomous species are present in gardens and bush areas. (5) Heat stress — dogs with flat faces (brachycephalic breeds) are particularly at risk in Mozambique's tropical climate. (6) Importing large pets via air cargo is complex — Johannesburg (OR Tambo) and Nairobi (JKIA) have dedicated live animal facilities and may be more practical routing points than Maputo's Maputo International Airport. Most expats use a specialist pet transport company for international moves. (7) No pet passport system exists — all documentation must be originals. (8) Leash laws are not formally enforced but responsible ownership is expected, particularly in Maputo's residential neighbourhoods.