Official Import Rules
Ecuador requires a government-endorsed veterinary health certificate issued within 10 days of travel, and the full core feline vaccinations documented on the zoosanitary export certificate. Microchip is recommended.
The zoosanitary import permit from AGROCALIDAD is only required when the cat travels as unaccompanied air cargo. When travelling in the passenger cabin or collected alongside the owner's luggage at international arrivals, no import permit is needed — only the zoosanitary export certificate from the country of origin's Official Veterinary Service is required.
For cargo travel, the owner must email the destination airport's AGROCALIDAD office at least 72 hours before arrival with the required documents, after which a payment order is generated through the GUIA system.
AGROCALIDAD inspects animals on arrival at Quito (UIO) or Guayaquil (GYE) airports.
Medical Roadmap
Microchip recommended
Core feline vaccinations — all must be documented on the zoosanitary export certificate
- Feline panleukopenia
- Feline viral rhinotracheitis
- Feline calicivirus
- Rabies — if this is the animal's first-ever rabies vaccination, a minimum of 14 days must have elapsed since the vaccine was administered before entry. Boosters on a previously vaccinated animal are not subject to this waiting period.
Health certificate within 10 days of travel
Government endorsement of health certificate
Zoosanitary import permit from AGROCALIDAD — cargo travel only
Required only when travelling as unaccompanied air cargo. Email the destination airport's AGROCALIDAD office at least 72 hours before arrival. Not required for cabin or accompanied baggage travel.
Arrive at Quito (UIO) or Guayaquil (GYE)
Preparation Checklist
2 months before
1 month before
10 days before
Travel day
Cost Breakdown
Quarantine Information
None
City & Housing Tips
Quito, Cuenca, and Guayaquil are popular expat destinations. Cuenca is particularly popular with retirees. Ecuador uses the US dollar. Vet care is affordable and improving.
Vets & Common Parasites
Reasonable vet care in major cities. Quito and Cuenca have the best facilities. Costs are very low. Outside major cities, vet care is basic. Altitude (Quito 2,800m, Cuenca 2,500m) may affect cats initially.
Find Vets in EcuadorExit Rules — Leaving Ecuador
Exit requires a health certificate from an Agrocalidad-approved vet and an export permit. Processing takes 2–3 working days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Low cost of living, US dollar economy, pleasant climate (especially in highland cities like Cuenca), and relatively easy residency visas.
Potentially. Highland cities like Quito and Cuenca sit above 2,500m. Most cats adapt within a few days, but monitor for signs of altitude sickness.
Yes. Cuenca has a large, established expat community that includes many pet owners. Vet care is available and affordable.
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 Ecuador 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.