Importing pets in Mauritius

If you’re considering moving to Mauritius with your pet, you’ve come to the right place! Just like obtaining a visa or residency permit is essential for expatriating to Mauritius, the same applies to pets.

To bring your cat or dog to Mauritius, you’ll need to obtain an Import Permit. But how to get one? We’ll guide you through the process! ⬇️

Please note: To apply for an Import Permit, it’s imperative to hold an Occupation Permit or Residence Permit (long-stay visa) for Mauritius.

➡️ Click here to learn more about the available visas in Mauritius.

Apply for a Pet Importation Permit

Similar to visa applications, the process for obtaining an Import Permit should be initiated before your journey, directly with the Mauritius Ministry of Agriculture.

You’ll be required to submit your pet’s paperwork via email to the Veterinary Services department of the Ministry of Agriculture ➡️ moa-dvs@mail.govmu.org.

Additionally, you can contact the veterinary services directly at +230 454 1016.

You can apply for a Pet Importation Permit under the following visas : 

• Premium Visa
• Investor Visa
• Professional Visa
• Self-Employed Visa
• Retiree Visa
• Real Estate Investor Visa

People living in Mauritius under a Student or a Tourist Visa are not allowed to import pets in Mauritius. 

The steps

• Complete the Pet Import Permit application form ➡️ download it here!
• Include a letter of intent detailing the purpose of your visit to Mauritius. Additionally, specify whether you are a Mauritian resident returning permanently or on vacation, along with the duration of your stay abroad. If you are an expatriate in Mauritius, include a copy of your visa and indicate the length of your stay on the island.
• Attach the sterilization certificate for your pet (mandatory for entry into Mauritius).
• Submit a copy of your pet’s health records and vaccination certificates.
• Upon approval of your application, you will receive comprehensive instructions regarding your pet’s importation, including necessary vaccinations, treatments, and tests.

“Dangerous” dogs breeds

Does your furry friend come from a purebred lineage? If so, it’s important to stay alert. The Mauritian government has designated certain dog breeds as ‘dangerous’.

Here’s the list of ‘dangerous’ breeds: ➡️ Alaskan Malamute, American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Blue Nose Pit Bull, Boerboel, Bull Mastiff, Cane Corso, Doberman, Argentine Dogo, Fila Brasileiro, Japanese Tosa, Kangal, Neapolitan Mastiff, Presa Canario, Red Nose Pit Bull, Rhodesian Ridgeback, Rottweiler, Staffordshire Terrier.

 

Vaccinations and Pre-Travel Procedures

• Vaccination against rabies should be administered more than 30 days but less than a year before travel. The initial vaccination must be given at 3 months of age and at least 2 months before the journey. Vaccines older than 3 years are not accepted.
• Rabies antibody serology should be performed less than 6 months but more than 30 days before travel.
• Dogs should be vaccinated against distemper, infectious hepatitis, leptospirosis, and parvovirus more than 15 days before departure.
• Dogs should be tested within 45 days before departure. Any contamination with Ehrlichiosis or Brucella Canis will invalidate your pet’s entry.
• Cats should be vaccinated against feline panleukopenia, feline calicivirus, and feline viral rhinotracheitis more than 15 days before departure.
• Internal and external parasite treatment is required.
• An international health certificate issued by an official veterinarian validating all the above points should be scheduled at least 48 hours before departure. Make an appointment in advance.

Also, include the animal’s microchip number and the creation of an international passport.

Three days before your pet’s arrival, remember to notify the services at Réduit (the quarantine facility in Mauritius). Provide them with the day and time of arrival.

Your pet’s arrival in Mauritius

Upon your arrival in Mauritius, your pet will be taken care of by the veterinary services at the airport. It’s crucial to have all the original official papers for your dog or cat with you, as failure to do so may result in your pet being sent back to your home country.

Your pet will then undergo a 5-day quarantine period (if coming from Europe). You’ll be responsible for covering the costs of accommodation and food during this time, which amount to approximately Rs 200.

After the quarantine period, you’ll need to register your pet with the Mauritius Society for Animal Welfare, the organization responsible for pet registration. To do this, you’ll need to visit the organization’s headquarters in Rose-Hill. Registration fees amount to Rs 500.

Once all these steps are completed, you can finally be reunited with your faithful companion and settle with them in Mauritius!

You’ll then be able to enjoy the sunshine of the Indian Ocean with your furry best friend by your side!

Are you ready to expatriate to Mauritius?

Begin your administrative procedures now!

 

Testimonials

Here are some testimonials from people who have already brought their dogs and cats to Mauritius.

Agathe’s Testimony

Did you handle the administrative process alone, or did you seek assistance from a specialized company?

I managed the administrative process independently. It’s worth noting that I was already in Mauritius while my cat remained in France, so I received assistance from my relatives in France.

How long did the entire process take, from applying for the import permit to your cat’s arrival on the island?

The process took approximately three months from start to finish.

Did you encounter any challenges in completing all the required exams, vaccinations, and checks for your cat before your departure?

As I had already left for Mauritius before my cat, I initially planned not to bring him with me. However, circumstances changed, and we had to expedite all the necessary exams. This included the rabies injection, which doesn’t always yield immediate results and can delay the animal’s departure.

How long was the quarantine period for your pet, and what were the associated costs?

Pets must undergo a 5-day quarantine period, which incurred minimal fees of about Rs 40 per day. However, I had to provide litter, food, and toys during this time.

Did you encounter any misunderstandings or challenges during the process of bringing your cat to Mauritius?

Yes, I faced some challenges, particularly in obtaining a comprehensive list of required documents. This necessitated reaching out to various sources for information.

Overall, what was your impression of this experience, and what advice would you offer to future expats with pets?

The experience was quite stressful due to the uncertainty involved. However, with a thorough checklist and sufficient time, I believe it’s entirely manageable. It’s important to be aware of the imposed quarantine period.

Julie’s testimony

“I brought my cat and small Jack Russell dog to Mauritius. If you’re handling the procedures yourself, be prepared for a patient approach. For the veterinary laboratory, I utilized Idexx, known for their efficiency and professionalism.

I recommend thoroughly preparing for your departure, ensuring all necessary exams (including castration/sterilization and vaccinations) are completed by the same veterinarian. It took me several attempts to find a vet who followed the process accurately.

Additionally, make sure to attend the pre-departure appointment with the veterinarian from the DAAF if you’re arriving from Reunion Island.

Lastly, retain all original documents, including the boxes of dewormer.

The journey can be challenging for our four-legged friends, so be prepared for their comfort during the trip.”