Export Live Animals to Iran
The export of U.S. agricultural commodities to Iran, with some exceptions, are generally authorized by a General License issued by the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC).
The General License for agricultural commodities can be found in 31 C.F.R. Part 560.530 and frequently asked questions can be found on the OFAC FAQs Iran Sanctions page, including specific guidance on live cattle, cattle embryo, shrimp, and shrimp eggs (see FAQs 361 and 366).
Exporters who wish to export agricultural commodities that are not covered by the General License may apply to OFAC for a specific license. However, exporters should be aware that there are no bilaterally agreed upon trade protocols for the export of animal commodities. Therefore, there may be limited recourse should a consignment be detained and/or denied entry.
Additional guidance on U.S. agricultural exports to Iran can be found on the OFAC website.
For questions regarding U.S. sanctions, please contact the OFAC Licensing Division at +1-202-622-2480.
Taking a Pet to Another Country?
If your species is not listed, the requirements for that species are not known. Exporters who want to ship livestock or germplasm whose requirements are not listed above should have the importer or buyer in the destination country apply for an import permit at the appropriate ministry. This import permit will most likely outline the specific requirements.
Need Help?
USDA-Accredited Veterinarians
Contact a USDA-accredited veterinarian for questions about your destination country's entry requirements for animals (including any needed vaccinations, tests, or treatments) and for issuance of health certificates.
Find a USDA-Accredited Veterinarian
USDA Endorsement Offices
Contact your nearest APHIS Veterinary Export Trade Services Endorsement Office for questions about endorsing an export health certificate for live animals.