A pet health certificate is an official document signed by a veterinarian stating that your pet was examined and appears healthy and free of contagious disease, and that required vaccinations are current. In the US it is often called a certificate of veterinary inspection (CVI). Airlines, some states and every country that accepts imported pets have rules about these certificates.
This guide is part of our pet health checkup guide. Rules change often, so always confirm current requirements with your airline and the destination authority.
When you need a pet health certificate
- Air travel: many airlines require a recent health certificate for pets flying in the cabin or as cargo.
- Crossing borders: international travel almost always needs a health certificate plus country-specific requirements.
- Moving between some states or regions: some jurisdictions require certificates for pets entering.
- Selling or showing animals: some shows and sales require them.
Timelines
| Situation | Typical timing |
|---|---|
| Domestic flights (US) | Many airlines require the certificate to be issued within 10 days of travel |
| Domestic flights (India) | Airlines generally ask for a recent fitness certificate and vaccination record; check your airline’s exact window |
| International travel | Can require months of preparation: microchip, rabies vaccine, waiting periods, sometimes rabies antibody tests, then government endorsement close to departure |
International travel: extra steps
- Microchip: many countries require an ISO-compatible microchip implanted before the rabies vaccine.
- Rabies vaccine and waiting period: many countries require a waiting period after vaccination before entry.
- Rabies antibody titre test: required by some rabies-free countries, with its own waiting period.
- Parasite treatments: some destinations require tapeworm or tick treatment within a set window.
- Government endorsement: in the US, international certificates are typically endorsed by USDA APHIS. In India, export of pets involves the Animal Quarantine and Certification Service (AQCS).
- Import permit: some countries require a permit before arrival.
How to get a pet health certificate
- Check airline and destination rules as early as possible.
- Book an exam with a vet who is authorised to issue the required certificate. In the US, international and interstate certificates must be issued by a USDA-accredited veterinarian.
- Bring vaccination records, microchip details and destination requirements.
- Make sure names, microchip numbers and dates match exactly across all documents.
- Get any required government endorsement within the allowed window.
Tips to avoid problems
- Keep originals and copies, digital and printed.
- Ask your clinic to set reminders for each deadline.
- Allow extra time around public holidays when government offices may be closed.
Frequently asked questions
Is a vaccination record the same as a health certificate?
No. A vaccination record shows vaccines given. A health certificate is a formal statement of an exam, usually with a validity window.
Can any vet issue a health certificate?
Any licensed vet can issue a basic fitness certificate, but some travel certificates must be issued by vets with specific government accreditation.
Related guides
This guide is general information for pet owners and is not a substitute for an examination by a licensed veterinarian. If your pet is unwell, contact your vet.
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