Official Import Rules
Brazil requires: a health certificate issued within 10 days of departure, valid rabies vaccination (at least 21 days old for primary vaccination), and an International Veterinary Certificate (CVI — Certificado Veterinário Internacional), issued or endorsed by the official veterinary authority of the origin country. The CVI model was updated and made mandatory from 6 September 2025 under Portaria MAPA 741/2024.
The health certificate must be endorsed by your origin country's official veterinary authority.
No prior MAPA import authorization or Brazilian consulate legalization is required for cats.
Medical Roadmap
Microchip
ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip — recommended best practice but not a legal entry requirement.
Rabies vaccination
Current vaccination required, at least 21 days before travel for primary vaccination.
Health certificate
Issued within 10 days of travel by accredited vet.
Government endorsement
Issued or endorsed by official veterinary authority of origin country.
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 CVI issued by VIGIAGRO, health examination, and compliance with destination country requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. According to official MAPA documentation, a microchip is not a legal entry requirement for cats. While microchipping is recommended best practice for pet safety and identification, it is not 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.