Pet permit application

Need to import your pet to The Bahamas?
Follow the instructions below.

Application timeline

Once your application is submitted with complete documentation and up-to-date vaccinations, your pet import permit will be emailed to you within 2 business days.

Permit Validity

All permits are valid for six months from your intended date of arrival, allowing flexibility in your travel plans. Each permit is for single use only—if you leave The Bahamas with your pet and return, a new permit will be required.

Requirements for Dogs and Cats

To bring your dog or cat into The Bahamas, please ensure the following requirements are met:

  1. Age: The animal must be at least 6 months old.
  2. Health Records: The animal must be accompanied by valid health records demonstrating the following vaccinations:
    • Rabies Vaccine: The animal must be vaccinated against rabies within the following time frames:
      • For the 1-year vaccine: no less than one (1) month and no more than ten (10) months before importation.
      • For the 3-year vaccine: no less than one (1) month and no more than thirty-four (34) months before importation.
    • DHPP vaccine for dogs: The dog must be immunized against Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Leptospirosis, Adenovirus, and Coronavirus (the latter can be part of a combination vaccine).
    • OR
    • FVRCP-FelV vaccine for Cats: The cat must be immunized against Feline Leukemia, Feline Rhinotracheitis, Feline Calicivirus, Feline Panleukopenia, and Feline Pneumonitis.
  3. Parasite-Free Status: The animal must be declared free from external and internal parasites.
  4. Microchipping: The animal must be microchipped with an approved chip (e.g., Avid, Trovan, HomeAgain).

PROHIBITED BREEDS

The following pure breed dogs and their mixes listed below are not allowed entry in The Bahamas:

  1. Pitbull
  2. Presa Canario
  3. Cane Corso
  4. American Bully
  5. Staffordshire Terrier
  6. Dogo Argentino

The following pure breed cats and their mixes listed below are not allowed entry in The Bahamas:

  1. Savannah Cat
  2. Bengal Cat
  3. Chausie

HOW TO APPLY

  1. 1. Complete the online form by clicking here
    Upload your documents – vaccine record and a photo of your dog.
  2. 2. Make your payment
    Once we’ve received your application and confirmed that your vaccine record is correct, you’ll receive an email with a secure payment link. Please pay as soon as possible so we can start processing your permit right away.
  3. 3. Make an appointment with your vet
    Schedule your appointment within the 2 days preceding your arrival in The Bahamas. You’ll need to have this form filled out by your vet a day or two before your trip.
  4. 4. Wait for your permit
    It will be sent to you by email within 2 business days.*
  5. *2 business days from the date of payment

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a separate permit for each pet?

No. Your permit is issued for your trip, not per pet. One permit will cover all pets traveling with you on the same journey.

What’s the difference between the Standard and Express plans?

Our Standard plan ($200) offers regular processing within 2 business days. The Express plan ($350) provides same-day approval for applications submitted before 2 PM, making it ideal for last-minute travel.

How long is my permit valid for?

Permits remain valid for six months from your intended date of arrival, giving you flexibility to adjust your travel dates if needed.

What happens if my travel dates change after I get my permit?

Your permit remains valid for six months from your intended arrival date, so minor changes are fine. If your trip is postponed beyond that period, message me.

Do I need to print my permit, or can I show it electronically?

It’s strongly recommended to print your permit before you travel. This will speed up processing when you arrive. If you can’t print it, you can show it on your phone, and a customs officer will take a photo or arrange for the customs office to print it for you. However, this will delay your arrival process—and we know you’d rather be enjoying the sun and sea—so please print it if possible.

Can I apply for my permit before booking my flights?

Yes. As long as you know your intended arrival date, you can apply in advance to secure your permit and reduce last-minute stress.

What documents do I need to apply?

You’ll need your pet’s up-to-date vaccine record and a recent photo of your pet. We’ll guide you through any additional requirements during the application process.

Is there a passport or multiple-entry permit for pets?

No. Each permit is valid for one entry only, so you’ll need a new permit every time you enter The Bahamas with your pet. If you’d like to apply for multiple permits at the same time, contact us—we can process them in bulk, and we offer a discount when you order more than five at once.

Do service dogs also need an import permit?

Yes. All dogs, including certified service animals, require an import permit to enter The Bahamas.

Bahamas Pet Import – Your Pet's Travel Concierge for The Bahamas

Bahamas Pet Import wishes you a pleasant journey.

Thank you for your trust.