Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service
Import: Bring Live Animals Into the United States
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There are many different processes involved with importing different species of regulated live animals into the United States, including guidelines and regulations, permits and certification, and associated user fees.
Application Process for Live Animal Import Permits*: Importers may submit an online application for an import or transit permit for APHIS-regulated live animals and their reproductive tissue (genetic resources) using the VS Form 17-129 through the APHIS eFile system
Effective May 31, 2022, APHIS Veterinary Services (VS) will require submission of all new and renewal permit applications for live animals and animal products, organisms, and vectors - via the APHIS eFile system.
* Allow 7-10 business days to process a live animal import permit application.
** Also check with individual state(s) regarding specific laws for the species of animal you wish to import **
Animal semen, embryos and cloning tissue may not be imported into the United States from a region other than where it was collected.
Any semen and embryo shipments should be routed directly to the United States with no stops other than those designated on the import permit.
Approved Immediate Slaughter Facilities is a comprehensive listing of slaughter plants inspected and approved by USDA APHIS to receive the listed livestock from Canada or Mexico for “Direct to Slaughter” purposes.
Commercial Birds | Live Poultry | Poultry Hatching Eggs | Ratites & Hatching Eggs | Zoological Birds
Domestic Dogs (Canines) | Dog Semen & Embryos | "Non-Pet" Dogs (Commercial Sale/Adoption)
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