Import of Live Cattle and Bison from Mexico to the United States
Last Modified: Mar 31, 2022

USDA APHIS regulates the importation of all ruminants and their germplasm (embryos/oocytes, semen, cloning tissue) to prevent the spread of animal diseases. Ruminants include all animals which chew the cud, such as cattle, buffaloes, sheep, goats, deer, antelopes, camels, llamas and giraffes.
Southern Border Ports:
- Texas: Brownsville, Hidalgo, Laredo, Eagle Pass, Del Rio, and Presidio
- Arizona: Douglas, Naco, Nogales, Sasabe, and San Luis
- California: Calexico and San Ysidro
- New Mexico: Antelope Wells, Columbus, and Santa Teresa
Air/Ocean:
- Newburg, NY
- Miami, FL
- Los Angeles, CA
** Please see 9CFR 93.403 for list of special/limited ports of entry
Live Domestic Cattle and Bison
Protocols for the Import of Feeder Cattle, Breeding Cattle, and Cattle for Immediate Slaughter from Mexico to the United States; no permit is required
Bovine Tuberculosis Requirements for Cattle from Mexico
Additional Import Guidance
Bovine Embryos
Bovine embryos are not permitted to be imported from Mexico at this time.
Bovine Semen
Bovine semen is not permitted to be imported from Mexico at this time.
What You Need to Know
- U.S. transits are classified as shipments presented to a U.S. port of entry for conveyance purposes to then be transported to a destination country shortly after.
- Please note that any animals and their germplasm transiting the US must not transit countries with questionable disease statuses prior to reaching a U.S. port of entry.
- All transits require a contingency plan. Please submit your contingency plan with your permit application (VS 17-129) on the E-permits website or via email at LAIPermits@usda.gov
To submit an import permit electronically, please visit APHIS eFile.
If you are applying to import live animals, semen and embryos, you may submit applications by email to LAIPermits@usda.gov
Contact Us
Live Animal Import/Export and Permitting
USDA-APHIS Veterinary Services
4700 River Road Unit 39
Riverdale, MD 20737
Phone: 301.851.3300 Option 2
Additional Information