Pet import requirements for Mauritius

Mauritius at a glance

The detail

Yes, all pets imported into Mauritius are subject to a compulsory quarantine upon arrival, with a minimum duration of five days at the Division of Veterinary Services in Réduit. Mauritius is an island nation located in the Indian Ocean, about 2,000 kilometers (1,200 miles) off the southeastern coast of Africa. Arrival airports noted for this destination in clude RRG and MRU.

Import requirements

7months Old minimum import age.

Pets are allowed to enter Mauritius only if they have been vaccinated and either:

• Undergo an antibody titration test not less than 3 months and not more than 12 months prior to shipment, with a positive result of at least 0.5 IU/ml, or
• Have been kept in an approved quarantine station for six months prior to shipment under supervision.

While the exact minimum age isn't explicitly stated in the permit, the requirement that testing be done at least 3 months after vaccination implies that pets must be at least 7 months old (assuming rabies vaccination is given at 3 months of age) before entering Mauritius.

Pregnant females: Mauritius does not permit the importation of pregnant pets. According to the country's import regulations, all dogs and cats must be neutered or spayed prior to entry, and pregnant animals are explicitly prohibited from importation. Additionally, import permit applications require a declaration from the owner confirming that the animal is not pregnant at the time of export

Required Documents for Dogs and Cats:

• Import Permit – Must be issued by the Mauritius Livestock and Veterinary Division.
• International Veterinary Certificate – Signed by a registered veterinarian and endorsed by the of ficial veterinary authority of the exporting country (e.g., Kenya DVS).
• Rabies Vaccination Certificate – Showing vaccination was done at least 30 days and no more than 12 months before entry.
• Rabies Antibody Titer Test (RNAT) – Test must be conducted between 3–12 months prior to travel, with a result of ≥0.5 IU/ml.
• Microchip Certification – ISO standard 11784/11785-compliant microchip or tattoo; ID number must appear on all documents.
• Sterilization Certificate – All pets must be neutered/spayed (breeding animals require additional pedigree certification).
• Parasite Treatment Certification –
• External: Treated with a long-lasting in secticide before travel, noted on certificate.
• Internal: Dewormed within 14 days of export; active in gredients and doses recorded on health certificate.
• Pregnancy Declaration – Female dogs must not be pregnant.
• Canine-specific requirements (for dogs only):
• Vaccinations for: Distemper, Infectious Hepatitis, Leptospirosis, Parvovirus (no less than 2 weeks before export).
• Ehrlichia canis test: Negative result via in direct fluorescent antibody within 45 days.
• Brucella canis test: Negative via slide or tube agglutination test.

A personal pet import in volves:

• A limited number of animals (typically 1–5 pets) being relocated with or to their legal owner.
• The owner must retain full ownership of the animal before, during, and after import.
• The pets are not in tended for commercial gain, in cluding sale, breeding, racing, show, or third-party transfer.
• Import permit, the category is clearly marked as “Personal”, authorizing X number sterilized animals for non-commercial importation.

A commercial import of pets typically refers to:

• Importation in tended for resale, adoption, breeding, or transfer of ownership upon arrival.
• Shipments in volving multiple animals, especially above the threshold normally allowed for personal import (e.g., more than 2–5 animals).
• Animals imported by breeders, pet shops, rescue organizations, or animal transport businesses.
• Imports not accompanied by the owner and in volving a change in ownership or transfer of title after arrival.

Commercial imports are subject to stricter scrutiny, longer quarantine periods, and more comprehensive health and origin documentation.

Specific Requirements for Commercial Animal Imports into Mauritius

• Commercial Import Permit – A different category of permit must be applied for via the Ministry of Agro-Industry and Food Security – Livestock and Veterinary Division. The form and motivation letter must clearly state the commercial nature of the move (e.g., breeding, resale).
• Pedigree Documentation – If animals are for breeding, a certified pedigree certificate from a recognized breeding authority must be provided for each animal. It must in clude the names of the sire and dam.
• Sterilization Declaration – In general, non-sterilized animals are not allowed, especially for personal import. For commercial breeding animals, explicit pre-approval and additional documentation are required.
• Quarantine Duration – Animals entering under a commercial import permit may be subjected to quarantine periods exceeding five days, based on health risk assessments and type of business.
• Inspection and Licensing – The importer may need to be licensed or registered with the relevant authority in Mauritius (e.g., pet trader or breeder registration), and the facility receiving the animals must be approved by the authorities.
• Veterinary Health Certification – Same as for personal imports, but more rigorously enforced. The certificate must:
• Be endorsed by the exporting country’s veterinary authority.
• Include all vaccinations, microchip ID, parasite treatments, and health test results.
• Be linked to a commercial in voice or contract of sale, if applicable.
• Transport Requirements – Animals must travel in IATA-compliant crates and be shipped via direct flights only. Transit is prohibited, even for commercial shipments.

The conditions of the International Veterinary Certificate must conform to those laid down in the Mauritius import permit... The Livestock and Veterinary Division reserves the right to keep the animal under observation or deny entry if required tests or endorsements are missing or non-compliant.

NA

Identification and microchip

Type: The animal must be identified with a microchip or a permanent tattoo.

Standards: The microchip should conform to the International Standards Organisation (ISO) standard 11784 or 11785.

Documentation: The identification details must be shown on the accompanying veterinary certification.

Original Vaccination is required.

Rabies and vaccinations

Yes, rabies vaccinations are required for pets entering Mauritius. The rabies vaccine must be approved by the manufacturer and produced in accordance with the Terrestrial Manual (OIE guidelines). Pets must either be vaccinated or revaccinated as recommended and undergo a rabies antibody titration test (e.g., FAVN) not less than 3 months and not more than 12 months prior to shipment, with a positive result of at least 0.5 IU/ml from a government-approved laboratory. Alternatively, if a serology test is not performed, the pet must have been kept in an approved quarantine station for six months under of ficial supervision before export. The original rabies vaccination certificate and supporting documentation must accompany the pet upon arrival. Pets without vaccination, without valid serology, or not meeting these conditions will not be allowed entry.

Dogs and cats must receive a rabies vaccine no earlier than 12 months and no later than 30 days before entry into Mauritius. In addition, dogs must be current on core vaccinations in cluding distemper, hepatitis, leptospirosis, and parvovirus, while cats should be vaccinated against feline panleukopenia, rhinotracheitis, and calicivirus. All vaccinations and health treatments must be clearly recorded in the of ficial International Veterinary Certificate, issued and endorsed by the veterinary authority of the exporting country, and must accompany the pet upon arrival.

Tests and treatments

A valid rabies antibody titer test showing a result of at least 0.5 IU/ml, conducted between 3 and 12 months prior to travel, is required for both dogs and cats—or alternatively, the pet must have completed a six-month pre-export quarantine. In addition, dogs must test negative for *Ehrlichia canis* using the in direct fluorescent antibody test within 45 days before export, and must also test negative for *Brucella canis* using either a slide or tube agglutination test.

Pets must receive in ternal and external parasite treatments (e.g., for ticks, fleas, and worms) administered by a licensed veterinarian within 7 to 10 days prior to travel. These treatments must be clearly documented on the International Veterinary Certificate, in cluding the product name, date of administration, and veterinarian’s signature and stamp. Mauritius typically requires the same in ternational standards as many island nations that aim to remain rabies-free and parasite-controlled. It’s essential to ensure these treatments are done close to departure and fully recorded on the health certificate presented on arrival.

Health certificate and permits

pets entering the country must be accompanied by an International Veterinary Health Certificate. This certificate must be issued by a licensed veterinarian in the exporting country and endorsed by the of ficial veterinary authority of that country.

an Import Permit is mandatory for bringing pets (dogs, cats, and certain other animals) into Mauritius. This permit must be obtained from the Livestock and Veterinary Division of the Ministry of Agro-Industry and Food Security.

Mauritius Import Application

Quarantine

Yes, all pets imported into Mauritius are subject to a compulsory quarantine upon arrival, with a minimum duration of five days at the Division of Veterinary Services in Réduit. This requirement applies even when all health certifications, vaccinations, and test results are compliant. Home quarantine is not permitted before or after entry, and pets must be housed in the government-approved quarantine facility upon arrival. The only exception is if the pet has completed a six-month pre-export quarantine in the country of origin, which may substitute for the rabies antibody titer test. Additionally, the Livestock and Veterinary Division reserves the right to extend the quarantine period or hold the animal under observation at the owner's expense if the submitted veterinary documents do not fully conform or if any health concerns arise. Arrival and flight details must be communicated to the authorities at least three days before the pet’s arrival.

Restrictions and banned breeds

The following breeds are prohibited: American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Terrier, Blue Nose Pit Bull, Red Nose Pit Bull, Japanese Tosa, Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro, and Boerboel. All pets must be sterilized. Mauritius does not specify any climate or seasonal travel restrictions; however, airlines may apply their own temperature-related limitations, so it is advisable to verify with the carrier before booking.

Customs, agents, and airports

A customs broker is required for Mauritius.

A destination agent is required for Mauritius.

Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (IATA: MRU, ICAO: FIMP)

Airports listed on this destination file: RRG, MRU.

Pets can enter the cabin, as checked baggage, or as air cargo, but must enter on a direct flight if possible. Transiting through high-rabies countries is not permitted. Pre-notification of arrival is required.

All pets must be free of evidence of disease communicable to humans when examined at the entry port. If not in good health, further examination by a licensed veterinarian may be required at your expense.

The applicant will be issued an Import Permit subject to:

(1) Production of proof that all the conditions imposed on the specimen copy of

the Import Permit have been complied with (originals or certified true copy of

originals are to be submitted at arrival of animal).

(2) Availability of kennel/cattery at the Quarantine Station.

(3) Payment of import fee of Rs 500 per animal and veterinary clearance fee of

Rs 500, as applicable at time of issue.

(4) All pets arriving to Mauritius must come as manifest CARGO ONLY (NOT in

cabin and NOT in luggage hold as excess luggage), coordinates of local broker,

for clearance purposes must be provided.

Prior to arrival:

At least four days before arrival of the dog, you should inform the time of arrival

and flight number to this office by email. On the date of arrival, your broker should be present at the Airport, for customs formalities. In case of absence of representative (broker), the animal risks to be put back on the plane at owner’s cost.

Post arrival:

• Rent of kennel/cattery - Rs15 per day per animal.

Visiting hours: -

• Monday to Saturday: From 09.00 a.m to 11.00 a.m and from 01.00 p.m to

02.30 p.m

• Sundays & Public Holidays: From 09.00 a.m to 12.00 a.m

• Feeding & other necessity

Food for dog and cat should be provided by in dividual owner, and in case of cat, litter must also be provided.

• When the animal comes to Mauritius, it must be accompanied by all the original documents (endorsed by the competent authority) in cluding an INTERNATIONAL VETERINARY CERTIFICATE issued by the Competent Authority of the exporting country.)

• The animal will undergo a minimum quarantine of 5 days at the Quarantine Facility at Reduit.

• The LVD does not have a clinical veterinarian or pharmaceutical medications for the management of pre-existing or chronic conditions and general health issues.
• In the event if the animal requires assessment or treatment by a clinical veterinarian, a private (non‑departmental) veterinarian can be called to the Quarantine facility to examine, treat the animal and prescribe medication, at importer’s own cost.
• If the animal requires to be taken to a clinic for further in vestigations and extensive treatment, the importer or authorized agent is allowed to do so under the LVD supervision.

All pets must be collected by owner or an authorized person (allowed in written) at the end of the quarantine period.

https://servicio.mapama.gob.es/cexgan/Documentaci on Publica/PerrosGatosMauricio.pdf

Other pets / CITES / extra rules

All imports or exports of CITES-listed species require prior authorization through a valid CITES permit, which must be applied for in writing to the Director of NPCS. Applications should in clude the scientific and common names of the species, quantity, purpose of import/export, and source (wild or captive-bred). Mauritius enforces strict restrictions to prevent the in troduction of in vasive alien species, with specific regulations such as the *CITES and Wildlife (Prescribed Species) Regulations 2022*.

Contact Details – CITES Authority (Mauritius):National Parks and Conservation Service (NPCS)

Ministry of Agro-Industry and Food Security

Head Office: Reduit, Mauritius

Tel: (+230) 464 2993 / (+230) 464 2173

Fax: (+230) 464 1253

Email: npcsmail@govmu.org

Website: https://npcs.govmu.org

GUIDELINES TO BRING RABBITS (PETS) TO MAURITIUS

• Anyone who wishes to bring to Mauritius a pet should apply and obtain an Import Permit from the Ministry of Agro-Industry and Food Security, Division of Veterinary Services at least 45 days prior to departure from exporting country.
• No animal should be embarked for Mauritius without an import permit issued by the Livestock and Veterinary Division, Ministry of Agro-Industry and Food Security and an International Veterinary Certificate from exporting country.

• The rabbit will be quarantined for 15 days at the Livestock and Veterinary Division, Réduit. Contact us on petimport@govmu.org for more details.

How to apply for an Import Permit for rabbit:

• An application form (separate application form for each animal) should duly be filled and signed by importer.
• The following documents should be submitted:

(a) A motivation letter specifying the purpose of the visit to Mauritius. Also state whether you are a Mauritian resident returning home permanently or on holidays and how long you have stayed abroad, a breeder or otherwise. If you are an expatriate, send copy of your resident permit / occupation permit, and specify the length of your stay in Mauritius. All letters should be addressed to the Principal Veterinary Officer.

(b) In case importer is hiring a representive, an authorization letter must be submitted along with the application clearly stating duties delegated to the person(s).

(c) Copy of vaccination book/card of the pet (from front cover up to latest vaccines) (if any).

(d) A copy of owner passport or Identity Card.

Identification / microchip

The animal must be identified with a microchip or permanent tattoo and the identification details must be shown on the accompanying certification. It is recommended that microchip brands should conform to the International Standards Organisation (ISO) standard 11784 or to ISO Standard 11785.

The following health conditions have to be complied with:

The consignment should be accompanied by an International Veterinary Certificate stating that:

(1) The rabbit has been found clinically healthy and free from in fectious/contagious diseases.

(2) The rabbit originates from a region free from Pasteurellosis, Viral Haemorrhagic Disease, Listeriosis, Salmonellosis and Coccidiosis for the past twelve months.

(3) The rabbit has been found free from Ectoparasites and kept under sanitary supervision 15 days prior to export.

(4) The rabbit has all its life been in an establishment where no case of Myxomatosis was recorded of ficially for the past two months.

(5) The date and number of this import permit, the name of the importer must be stated on the International Veterinary Certificate by the issuing authority.

· If you are arriving at a port of entry such as Princess Juliana International Airport (PJIA), then you are entering the Dutch part of the island, Sint Maarten which has different (live animal) import regulations from that of Saint-Martin (French Part).

· All required documents MUST BE IN ENGLISH OR ACCOMPANIED BY ENGLISH TRANSLATION and in Adobe PDF format under 5 megabytes (MB) to be successfully attached to the application when submitted.

· Up to three (3) animals can be submitted on one (1) application. If you are travelling with more than this amounts you must submit a new application for additional animals.

· Emotional support and service animals are NOT EXEMPTED from the live animal import conditions for Sint Maarten.

· If your application is in complete or contains in consistencies, we will contact you directly through the email provided on the application form.

St. Martin travel – It is advised to fulfill the requirements for Sint Maarten which are more stringent.

The Ministry reserves the right not to permit entry to pets from high-rabies countries or from areas where rabies has occurred within the past 12 months.

Note: Birds, Invertebrates, Tropical Fish, Reptiles, Amphibian, Rodents and Rabbits are not subject to requirements of rabies vaccination but have to meet other requirements and should be accompanied by a Health Certificate when arriving in Mauritius.

BIRDS-Approval from the National Parks and Conservation Services (NPCS) is required prior to applying for an Import Permit to the MOA-DVS.

Official contacts

Livestock and Veterinary Division

Ministry of Agriculture

Principal Agricultural Officer Contact: Dr. D Meenowa

Level 8 & 9 Renganaden Seeneevassen Building

Cnr Jules Koenig & Maillard Streets

Port Louis, Mauritius

Tel: +230 454-1016 / 454-1017 / 466-6662

Fax: +230 464-2210

Website- Veterinary Services contact

Website- Import/ Export / Licensing

Email: moa-dvs@govmu.org

Email: moa-dvs@mail.gov.mu

Email: dmeenowa@mail.gov.mu

CITES Authority (Mauritius):

National Parks and Conservation Service (NPCS)

Ministry of Agro-Industry and Food SecurityHead Office: Reduit, Mauritius

Tel: (+230) 464 2993 / (+230) 464 2173

Fax: (+230) 464 1253

Email: npcsmail@govmu.org

WebsiteCurrent as of July 2025

Disclaimer

Import rules change without much warning. Confirm every vaccine date, test, permit, and crate routing with the destination veterinary authority before you travel. This page is a planning brief for Furry Freight customers, last checked against the IPATA country profile dated 2026-05-01.

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