Official Import Rules
Brazil requires: a health certificate issued within 10 days of departure, valid rabies vaccination (at least 30 days old), an International Zoosanitary Certificate (CZI), and MAPA clearance.
CRITICAL: The health certificate must be endorsed by your origin country's government vet AND legalized by the nearest Brazilian consulate.
This consular step is unique to Brazil and catches many owners off guard.
Medical Roadmap
Microchip
ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip.
Rabies vaccination
Current vaccination required, typically at least 21-30 days before travel.
Health certificate
Issued within 10 days of travel by accredited vet.
Government endorsement
May be required — check with destination authority.
Travel
Arrive at designated port with all original documentation.
Preparation Checklist
2 months before
1 month before
10 days before
Travel day
Cost Breakdown
Quarantine Information
None for cats with complete documentation from most countries.
City & Housing Tips
São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Curitiba, and Florianópolis are cat-friendly. Brazil has a strong pet culture with excellent pet supply stores and veterinary care. Apartment rentals generally accept cats. Use QuintoAndar and ZAP Imóveis for pet-friendly searches.
Vets & Common Parasites
Brazil has good veterinary care, particularly in major cities. The CRMV (Regional Council of Veterinary Medicine) regulates practitioners. Emergency clinics available in major cities. Common parasites: fleas (year-round), ticks, heartworm, and leishmaniasis (in some regions). Year-round parasite prevention is essential in Brazil's tropical climate.
Find Vets in BrazilExit Rules — Leaving Brazil
Exiting Brazil requires a CZI issued by VIGIAGRO, health examination, and compliance with destination country requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Brazil uniquely requires the health certificate to be legalized by a Brazilian consulate in the origin country. This adds time and cost but is mandatory.
Yes. Brazil has a strong pet culture and cats are well-regarded. Veterinary care is affordable and widely available.
Community Tips
Start the paperwork at least 4–6 months before your travel date. Airline pet policies change frequently — always confirm directly with your carrier close to departure.
Have you moved to Brazil with your cat? Share your experience and help other travellers.
CatAbroad Editorial
Researched by cat lovers with real international relocation experience. Checked against official government sources and updated regularly. Found an error? Let us know.