If you're planning to travel with your furry friend, it's essential to keep up with the latest in pet travel regulations. Recent changes include an increase in USDA endorsement fees, a new notification requirement for pets entering Portugal, and updated screwworm checks for those returning from Mexico. Let's dive into what these updates mean for your travel plans. 

USDA Endorsement Fee Increases

The USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has updated its fee structure for the endorsement of pet health certificates. As of January 10, 2025, the base fee for USDA endorsement is $101 (previously $38), but can increase to $173 or more depending on the number of required lab tests for the destination country​. For the complete fee schedule, please see User Fees on the APHIS Website.

New Requirement for Pets Traveling to Portugal

Portugal has introduced a new regulation requiring advance notification for pets entering the country. This means travelers must inform Portuguese authorities about their pet's arrival ahead of time to ensure compliance with local laws.

At Passpaw, we've updated Portugal’s requirements and travel workflow within two hours of the announcement, keeping our promise to always having accurate travel guidance for pet owners and veterinarians issuing International Health Certificates. 

Screwworm Monitoring in Mexico

For those returning from Mexico with pets, it's important to be aware of the new screwworm requirements. Pets traveling from regions affected by screwworm must undergo an inspection to ensure they are free of this pest before re-entering the United States. This includes a health check certified by a vet in Mexico within five days before entering the US to ensure the pet is screwworm-free. The health certificate must be signed by a full-time salaried veterinary official (official government veterinarian) of the region of origin certifying the following:

• The dog has been inspected for screwworm within 5 days prior to shipment to the United States; and 

• The dog is either free from screwworm OR  

• The dog was infested with screwworm, held in quarantine, and treated until free from screwworm prior to leaving the region.   

For more information, please see the following resources:

1. What is Screwworm? California Department of Food and Agriculture

2. Requirements for Pet Dogs Imported from FMD or Screwworm-Affected Countries USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service

3. Directorio de MVRA en Clínicas y Hospitales Veterinarios (MVRA Directory of Veterinary Clinics and Hospitals) Government of Mexico

Staying updated with the latest pet travel requirements is crucial for ensuring a smooth experience when traveling internationally with pets. Whether you're planning a trip abroad with your furry friend or just looking to stay informed, we invite you to use Passpaw’s travel workflows which are always updated to account for the latest in pet travel regulations, so that we can make your travel preparations with confidence and peace of mind.

Safe Travels!

Photo by Tanner Crockett on Unsplash