In most countries, the country of export and the country of import have special procedures, required documentation, and health requirements that must be met by each pet either leaving or departing a country. Many countries require that the documentation be officially endorsed by the Government agency or a special appointed veterinarian. It is best to first visit the Government or Ministry page of each country to get the most accurate and updated information.

As culturally diverse are the islands, so are the entry requirements. Some Caribbean Islands tend to have stricter import policies and procedures and require an import permit. Others may not. It is also important to confirm requirements with each country because rules and regulations can frequently change. With an import permit, you want to make sure that the expiration date is long enough for the return trip if necessary.

Islands that require an import permit:

Barbados

The British Virgin Islands

Sint Eustatius

Cayman Islands

Dominica

Anguilla

Antigua and Barbuda

Aruba

Jamaica

Sint Maarten

Saint Kitts and Nevis

Trinidad and Tobago

St. Vincent and the Grenadines

The Bahamas

Montserrat

Grenada

Saint Lucia

Turks and Caicos

 

Non-Import Permit Islands:

USVI (except for those including US pets who are arriving from a foreign island or country)

Puerto Rico (except for those who are arriving from a foreign island or country)

Martinique

St. Martin

Saba

Guadeloupe

St. Barthelemy

Cuba

Haiti

Bonaire

Dominican Republic

Curacao

Import of Cats and Dogs into the United States: 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has regulations on the importation of dogs and cats into the United States. Please visit the CDC updated guidelines.