Rwanda Pet Passport & Import Regulations

There will be no quarantine imposed on your pet when entering Rwanda as long as the following requirements are met. Unless otherwise stated, the regulations below apply to domestic dogs, cats and ferrets only. Owners of other pets should refer to item 10.
Pet Microchip

Rwanda does not require that your pet be identified with a pet microchip, but it is recommended that you microchip your pet and register your contact information prior to traveling as a means of document identification. If your pet does not have a registered microchip, make sure your pets are wearing tags that identify them and have contact information for the owner.
Vaccinations

Proof of current vaccination against rabies at least 30 days but not more than 12 months prior to entering Rwanda must be provided.
Health Certificate

Within 14 days of entry, a licensed veterinarian completes the Health Certificate for Rwanda. A USDA or CFIA accredited veterinarian completes the form and you have it endorsed by the USDA or CFIA if traveling from the United States or Canada.
Ticks & Tapeworm Treatment

Your cat or dog must be treated against internal parasites within one to five days of entry. It is recommended that your dog or cat be treated against fleas and ticks as well.
Import Permit

You must apply for an import permit to the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources. Be sure and allow plenty of time as the application must be mailed.
Entering Rwanda by Air

Pets must enter Rwanda at Kigali International Airport. Notice should be given to veterinary officials so they will be available to inspect your pet upon landing. Pets can arrive in the cabin, as checked baggage or as air cargo.
Puppies and Kittens

Puppies and kittens that are not yet 3 months old and not vaccinated against rabies will be vaccinated for rabies once they reach 3 months of age.
Banned Breeds

Rwanda does publish a list of banned breeds.
Other Animals

The admittance of species other than dogs and cats, including pet birds, requires prior approval by the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources.
Invertebrates, tropical fish, reptiles, amphibia, mammals such as rodents are not subject to requirements of rabies vaccination, but may have to meet other requirements and should have a health certificate to enter Rwanda. Pet owners are strongly advised to seek further information from the relevant authority of their country and/or that of the country of destination.
CITES

If your pet is not a dog, cat or ferret, and especially if it is a turtle or parrot, you should verify that it is not protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). You will need to apply for additional permits if this is the case. Over 180 countries participate and enforce CITES regulations.
Need More Assistance?

To the best of our ability, we ensure that recommendations given on PetTravel.com reflect the current regulations. We cannot predict how a given country may enforce these regulations. Noncompliance may result in the need to make arrangements to put your pet into quarantine at your expense, return your pet to the country of origin, or euthanize your pet. We suggest that you minimize the disruptions that may occur by following the rules of the country you are visiting.
Further detail on import permits, costs, tests and procedures are available at minimal cost at PetTravelStore.com. We also stock all the equipment and accessories you will need for traveling with your pet. Same day shipping Monday through Friday until 4:00 PM EST.
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