Dog Imports: Check Country Disease Status
Last Modified: January 21, 2026
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention updated rabies vaccination requirements for all dogs entering or returning to the United States. Certain requirements must be met before departing the United States. Learn More
APHIS Veterinary Services, along with the CDC, has specific requirements for dogs traveling (imported) to the United States from countries affected by particular diseases such as foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), screwworm, and rabies.
For dog(s) coming from...
- FMD-affected countries (not free), follow the APHIS Veterinary Services import requirements.
- Screwworm-affected countries (not free), follow the APHIS Veterinary Services import requirements.
- Rabies-affected countries (not free), review CDC dog importation regulations .
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Rabies Alert
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is the primary Government authority for all dogs imported into the United States, including returning U.S.-origin dogs. The following requirements related to rabies are established by CDC, not APHIS.
- Certification Required
- Dogs traveling to or returning from a high-risk country for dog rabies must have the "Certification of U.S.-Issued Rabies Vaccination" form completed by a USDA-accredited veterinarian and submitted before departing the United States.
- This form cannot be issued retroactively after your dog leaves the United States.
- Veterinarians: Instructions for completing the form
- Additional CDC Requirements
- Learn More: Entry Requirements for U.S.-Vaccinated Dogs From High-Risk Countries | CDC
- Questions? Contact CDC at 800-232-4636 or visit CDC-INFO.
Related Information
- APHIS may have separate requirements for dogs entering the United States. These differ from the CDC import requirements.
- Learn More: Bringing a Pet Dog into the United States | APHIS
- VEHCS Access and Help (for veterinarians): Using the Veterinary Export Health Certification System (VEHCS)