Moving Abroad With Pets: How to Bring Your Dog or Cat to Brazil

For many Americans, leaving a pet behind is simply not an option. The good news: Brazil welcomes dogs and cats, the process is manageable, and Florianópolis is an exceptionally pet-friendly city. Here is exactly what you need to do to bring your pet to Brazil.

Brazil's Pet Import Requirements

Brazil requires the following documentation for dogs and cats entering from the United States: a health certificate issued by a USDA-accredited veterinarian within 10 days of travel, endorsed by the USDA APHIS (Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service), and translated into Portuguese by a certified translator. Your pet must be microchipped (ISO 15-digit microchip), up to date on rabies vaccination (administered at least 30 days before travel and no more than 12 months before), and treated for internal and external parasites within 30 days of travel.

There is no quarantine requirement for pets entering Brazil from the US if all documentation is in order. This is a significant advantage compared to countries like Australia, New Zealand, or the UK, which require lengthy quarantine periods.

The USDA Endorsement Process

The most time-consuming part of the process is getting your health certificate endorsed by USDA APHIS. After your vet issues the health certificate, you must submit it to the USDA APHIS office in your state for endorsement. Processing times vary by state — typically 2 to 5 business days for standard processing, or same-day for rush processing (additional fee applies). Plan this step carefully: the health certificate must be issued within 10 days of your travel date, so timing is critical.

Flying With Your Pet

Small dogs and cats (under 8 kg including carrier) can typically travel in the cabin on most airlines. Larger dogs must travel as checked baggage or cargo. Airlines have different policies and fees — check with your specific airline well in advance, as pet spaces are limited and must be reserved. TAM (LATAM), American, and United all fly direct or one-stop routes from US cities to Florianópolis.

The flight from most US cities to Florianópolis is 10 to 14 hours with one connection. This is a long time for a pet, so consult your veterinarian about whether sedation is appropriate for your animal. Many vets advise against sedation for air travel as it can affect breathing at altitude.

Pet Life in Florianópolis

Florianópolis is an excellent city for pets. The beaches are dog-friendly (particularly in the early morning and evening), the climate is warm year-round, and Brazilians are generally very affectionate toward animals. Veterinary care is good and affordable — a vet visit costs $20 to $50, and most common medications and treatments cost 50% to 70% less than in the US. Dog parks, pet-friendly cafes, and pet supply stores are all readily available.

The Timeline

Start the process at least 60 days before your travel date. Get your pet microchipped and vaccinated, schedule the pre-travel vet appointment for the health certificate, submit for USDA endorsement, arrange translation, and book your pet's travel space on the airline. Rushing this process is stressful — give yourself plenty of time.