Are you traveling or relocating to Peru with your dog? This detailed guide explains every step — from U.S. veterinary paperwork to the SENASA inspection at Lima airport — so you and your furry friend can enter Peru smoothly and stress-free.
Legal Framework and Competent Authority in Peru
The Servicio Nacional de Sanidad Agraria (SENASA) is the official authority in charge of animal health control and import regulations in Peru. SENASA oversees inspections at ports of entry and issues the necessary sanitary certificates for animals arriving in the country.
Official website: www.gob.pe/senasa
Offices and airport checkpoints: SENASA Offices and Control Points
Veterinary regulations (vaccinations, inspection, microchips): SENASA Zoosanitary Rules
If you are traveling with your dog, the verification is done upon arrival at the airport by SENASA inspectors. For commercial shipments or more than two animals, you may need a Zoosanitary Import Certificate (CZI) in advance.
Before You Fly: Requirements in the United States
1. International Veterinary Health Certificate
You’ll need a USDA-APHIS endorsed international health certificate specifically for Peru.
It must be issued by a veterinarian accredited by USDA-APHIS.
Guidance: USDA Pet Travel – Choose “Peru”
Federal endorsement: Certificates must be endorsed electronically through VEHCS (Veterinary Export Health Certification System). Your accredited vet can submit this for you, or you can assist them via vehcs.aphis.usda.gov.
Validity window: the clinical examination is typically done within 10 days before travel (check the Pet Travel site, as some destinations allow up to 14 days).
Note: Many states no longer accept the old “APHIS 7001” form. Use the VEHCS-generated international certificate for Peru.
2. Rabies Vaccination
Your dog must have received a valid rabies vaccination at least 30 days before travel and within its validity period (1 or 3 years depending on the vaccine). The certificate should include the vaccine lot number and date.
3. U.S. Exit and Re-entry Regulations
If you plan to return to the U.S., review the CDC rules for dogs entering or leaving the country:
CDC Guidelines for Dogs
Booking Your Flight and Transport Options
Choosing Your Airline and Pet Slot
Before purchasing your ticket, confirm your airline’s pet policy and available slots — most carriers limit the number of animals per flight.
Reserve your pet’s spot when booking your flight (same PNR if possible, or via call center) and pay the pet transport fee.
Useful links:
In-Cabin Travel (Recommended)
If your pet’s weight (including carrier) is under approximately 7–8 kg (15–17 lbs), you can usually bring it into the cabin.
Requirements:
Soft, ventilated carrier that fits under the seat in front of you.
Your dog must remain inside the carrier during the entire flight.
In the Cargo Hold (Checked as “Live Animal”)
For larger pets, the cargo hold (“live animal” section) is required.
Specifications:
IATA-compliant hard kennel: your dog must be able to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. The door must be metal, with ventilation on multiple sides and fixed water containers inside.
Brachycephalic breeds (pugs, bulldogs, etc.) are often not accepted in cargo due to respiratory and temperature risks.
Do not sedate your animal — IATA and AVMA strongly discourage it. Instead, help your pet get used to the kennel beforehand and use absorbent bedding.
Arrival in Peru: Step-by-Step at the Airport
When you land in Lima (Jorge Chávez International Airport):
Clear immigration for yourself (passport or Peruvian CE if resident).
Collect your luggage and head to the SENASA inspection area in international arrivals.
→ SENASA Offices and Control PointsPresent to the SENASA inspector:
USDA-endorsed international health certificate (VEHCS)
Valid rabies vaccination record
If you pre-obtained a CZI, bring the confirmation; otherwise, SENASA will guide you to issue the Zoosanitary Import Certificate on-site.
Pay the sanitary inspection fee (amount may vary; check the CZI link for updated rates).
Your dog will be physically inspected (health check and document verification).
Once cleared, SENASA issues the Import Certificate and releases your pet.
Tip: Carry both physical copies and PDFs of all documents on your phone.
If your dog travels in the cargo hold and you have a short connection, inform ground staff so SENASA can prioritize the inspection.
Do You Need a Pre-Approved CZI (Zoosanitary Certificate)?
Usually no, if you are traveling with your pet and bringing up to two animals.
For more than two pets, commercial transport, or unaccompanied import, a CZI must be requested online before travel: Request CZI Online
Dog Passports, Microchips, and Local Registration
Dog Passport: Peru does not issue an official pet passport like the EU. You can use an international health booklet signed by your veterinarian.
Digital/QR Pet IDs: No official QR or digital passport exists in Peru; private apps are available but not legally valid. What matters are your USDA-endorsed certificate and SENASA import document.
Microchip (ISO standard): Strongly recommended for easy identification. After arrival, you can register your microchip with SENASA or through veterinary hospitals.
SENASA Offices
Service and Emotional Support Animals
Service Dogs (ADA/DOT): Most airlines allow them in-cabin at no cost with the official DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form (sometimes accompanied by a doctor’s letter).
DOT FormEmotional Support Animals (ESA): Since 2021, most airlines no longer treat ESAs as service animals. They count as regular pets and must follow standard cabin or cargo rules.
Pet Relocation Companies
Instead of choosing a random agent, use certified professionals listed in the IPATA (International Pet and Animal Transportation Association) directory.
You can filter by origin, destination, and transport type (cabin, cargo, or door-to-door).
Find a Pet Shipper – IPATA Directory
What to look for:
Experience with Peru and SENASA procedures
Familiarity with VEHCS and USDA processes
Ability to manage transits and temperature restrictions
Verified client references
Suggested timeline
6–8 weeks before departure: Confirm airline, routes, and pet space; start kennel training.
30–45 days before: Renew rabies vaccine (if needed) and schedule appointment with accredited USDA vet.
10 days before: Final clinical exam and international certificate issued; submit via VEHCS.
72–48 hours before flight: Reconfirm pet booking; print certificates and insurance; prepare travel kit.
Arrival day: SENASA inspection, payment, and import certificate issued.
Quick checklist
- USDA-APHIS international health certificate for Peru (from accredited vet): Pet Travel
- VEHCS endorsement completed: VEHCS Portal
- Valid rabies vaccine (min. 30 days before travel)
- Pet reservation confirmed and IATA-approved kennel ready: IATA Standards
- SENASA inspection and (if needed) CZI certificate: CZI Application
- (Optional) DOT Service Dog Form: DOT Form
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a quarantine period in Peru?
No. If all documentation is in order and the inspection is favorable, there is no quarantine.
Can I bring food or medication for my dog?
Yes, you can bring reasonable amounts of food for the journey. Prescription medication should be declared if required.
How much does the SENASA inspection fee cost?
Fees vary and are subject to change. Payment is made at the airport SENASA module. Check the CZI page for updated amounts.
Final tip
Plan ahead, coordinate closely with your veterinarian, and review your airline’s pet policies before booking.
With the right paperwork and preparation, your dog’s entry to Peru will be smooth and stress-free — so you can both start your new adventure together.
Need help choosing the right visa for Peru?
Immigration rules in Peru can be confusing – especially when it comes to the required documents, timelines, and legal steps. Choosing the right visa from the start can save you time, money, and stress.
Book your private consultation with Sergio Vargas to get expert guidance on the best visa option for your situation – and a clear plan to move forward.
The session takes place via Zoom and can be conducted in English or Spanish.
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