Official Import Rules
Mozambique requires an import permit from DINAV, a valid rabies vaccination administered at least 30 days before travel, a veterinary health certificate issued within 10 days of departure endorsed by your government veterinary authority, and ISO-standard microchip identification. A rabies titer test (≥0.
5 IU/ml) may be required from an OIE-approved laboratory. Documents should be in Portuguese or accompanied by certified Portuguese translations.
Medical Roadmap
Get your cat microchipped (ISO 11784/11785).
Administer rabies vaccination at least 30 days before travel.
Apply for import permit from DINAV via the Mozambican embassy.
Obtain rabies titer test if required.
Obtain a veterinary health certificate within 10 days of departure.
Have documentation endorsed and translated to Portuguese if necessary.
Present all documents at Maputo International Airport or designated entry point.
Preparation Checklist
2 months before
1 month before
10 days before
Travel day
Cost Breakdown
Quarantine Information
No quarantine for pets with complete documentation, but inspection on arrival is required.
City & Housing Tips
Maputo is the capital and primary expat destination with the best infrastructure. Beira and Nampula are secondary cities. Vilankulo and Inhambane are popular coastal towns. Veterinary care is available in Maputo but limited elsewhere.
Vets & Common Parasites
Maputo has a few veterinary clinics, including Clínica Veterinária de Maputo. Quality is reasonable for routine care. Specialist services are limited — consider medical evacuation insurance for your pet. Outside Maputo, veterinary care is very basic.
Find Vets in MozambiqueExit Rules — Leaving Mozambique
Exit requirements depend on destination. DINAV can issue export health certificates. Allow extra processing time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Portuguese is the official language. Having translations of all veterinary documents is strongly recommended and may be required. Some officials in Maputo speak English but don't rely on it.
Maputo has a growing expat community and some pet services. Several rental properties allow pets. The city has parks and outdoor spaces, though be cautious about tropical parasites.
Mozambique has tropical parasites including tick-borne diseases. Heartworm prevention is essential. Keep your cat up to date on flea/tick treatments and consult your vet about tropical disease prevention.
Community Tips
Quarantine is required in Mozambique. Plan ahead and book quarantine facilities well in advance.
The rabies titer test for Mozambique takes time — blood must be drawn at least 30 days after vaccination, and lab results take 2–3 weeks. Don't leave this to the last minute.
Have you moved to Mozambique 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.