Official Import Rules
Haiti requires a valid rabies vaccination certificate administered at least 30 days before arrival, an international veterinary health certificate issued within 10 days of travel, and microchip identification (ISO standard). An import permit (permis d'importation) for live animals is a formal requirement and must be requested in advance from DQCSPAP (Direction de la Quarantaine et Contrôle Sanitaire des Produits Agricoles et de la Pêche), the quarantine authority operating under MARNDR. The U.S. Embassy-prepared Trade.gov guide confirms that an import permit and sanitary certificate from the Ministry of Agriculture are required for animal imports, with requests submitted to the Agriculture Quarantine Division. The permit carries a 15-day validity window. Haiti does not require a rabies titer test. Haiti is not listed on USDA APHIS pet travel country pages and falls under 'unknown requirements,' meaning APHIS has not been officially informed of Haiti's specific pet entry requirements and no APHIS-endorsed health certificate template exists for Haiti. US travellers should contact DQCSPAP directly for current requirements. As best practice, carry a health certificate issued by a USDA-accredited veterinarian, though APHIS endorsement is not confirmed as required by Haiti. Due to ongoing security challenges, on-the-ground enforcement of regulations can be inconsistent, but all formal requirements should be met.
Free route planner
Turn these rules into your dog's step-by-step planCabin/cargo call, breed check, crate size and paperwork timing.Medical Roadmap
Microchip
ISO 11784/11785 microchip fitted before the rabies vaccination. The microchip number must match every certificate.
Rabies vaccination
Rabies vaccination must be valid before travel. Most routes require at least 21 days after a primary vaccination.
Health certificate or pet passport
Use an EU pet passport where accepted, or a government-endorsed animal health certificate for this route.
Rabies titer test
Build in the approved-lab antibody test and any mandatory waiting period before booking the flight.
Travel day
Carry originals, confirm airline pet acceptance, and keep the official authority page saved offline.
Breed & Public-Space Rules
No major national breed ban found
Still check airline policies, local rules, insurance requirements and any transit-country restrictions before booking.
Flying In: Cabin, Hold or Cargo
Cost Breakdown
Quarantine Information
Risk present. The U.S. Embassy-prepared Trade.gov guide states that imported live animals are subject to quarantine, and that a DQCSPAP inspector may recommend up to 15 days of quarantine upon arrival. Travellers should be prepared for this possibility even when documentation is in order. Quarantine may be waived with complete and compliant paperwork, but it cannot be guaranteed.
City & Housing Notes
Port-au-Prince is the capital and main entry point. Pétionville (hillside suburb) is the preferred expat area with better security and amenities. Cap-Haïtien in the north is smaller but more peaceful. Veterinary services are very limited throughout the country.
Vets & Health After Arrival
Very limited companion animal veterinary care. Some clinics operate in Port-au-Prince and Pétionville. The Haitian Veterinary Medical Association may help locate services. Bring medications and supplies. Several NGOs operate animal welfare programs that may assist.
Leaving Haiti With Your Dog
Exit requirements depend on destination. Veterinary services in Haiti can issue health certificates, though availability may be limited. Plan ahead and confirm destination-country requirements well in advance.
Videos & Route Walkthroughs
Use videos as lived-experience context, not as legal authority. Search for recent dog-owner route reports, airport collection walkthroughs, crate-loading examples and relocation-agent explainers, then verify every rule against the official source above.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Haiti safe for pets?
Haiti faces significant security challenges. If relocating for NGO/humanitarian work, your organization may provide guidance. Ensure your dog will have a secure, climate-controlled living environment.
Can I fly my dog to Haiti from the US?
Yes — several US airlines serve Port-au-Prince and some allow pets in cabin or cargo. American Airlines and JetBlue are common options. Check individual airline pet policies.
Is pet food available in Haiti?
Imported pet food can be found in some supermarkets in Port-au-Prince and Pétionville, but selection is limited and prices are high. Consider bringing a supply with you.
Community Tips & Nearby Routes
Community reports are useful for practical details such as which cargo desk answers the phone, how long collection took, or whether a landlord asked for insurance. Treat them as tips, then verify rules with the authority and airline.