Bringing Your Pet to Chile, step by step

Bringing your furry friend to Chile involves a bit of paperwork, but with the right preparation, it's entirely manageable. The key document you’ll need is the Certificado Veterinario Internacional (CVI), which is a veterinary certificate that must be issued by the official veterinary authority in your home country. This document ensures that your pet meets Chilean import requirements, covering aspects like vaccinations and overall health.

Timing is crucial when obtaining the CVI. It must be issued within 10 days of your travel date to Chile. The Chilean Agricultural and Livestock Service (SAG) allows an extension of up to 5 extra days if travel conditions require it. Make sure to plan this part carefully, as missing or incorrect paperwork can result in SAG imposing sanitary measures, which may include denying your pet entry into the country.

Costs associated with obtaining the CVI vary depending on where you're coming from and the specific services used in your home country. It's wise to consult with local veterinarians or pet relocation services well in advance to understand the fees and requirements specific to your situation.

For a smooth transition, consider reading more about the moving process in our Moving to Santiago guide, which covers other essential steps to get settled in the city.

If you're planning to bring your furry friends to Chile, there's good news: as of 2026, dogs, cats, and ferrets no longer require quarantine upon arrival. This change in the general rules means your pets can start exploring their new home right away, without any delay.

The process at the border is straightforward and, importantly, there are no fees associated with bringing your pets into the country. While Chile has streamlined the entry for pets, the costs you'll encounter are likely to stem from the preparation services in your country of origin. These can vary depending on the provider and country, so it's worth checking in advance to avoid any surprises.

So, whether your cat is ready to purr in a new language or your dog is eager to sniff out Santiago's parks, rest assured they can make the move smoothly and without quarantine hassles.

If you're planning to bring your pet into Chile after 27 July 2026, microchipping becomes a must. This isn't just a bureaucratic hoop to jump through but a crucial step for ensuring traceability of pets entering the country. Starting from this date, every furry traveller must have a permanent individual identification, like a microchip or a tattoo. This ID number needs to be clearly listed on your pet's import certificate.

Why the emphasis on microchipping, you ask? It's all about traceability. Imagine it like giving your pet a unique passport that ensures they can be easily identified, which helps in managing health records and tracking movements. This measure enhances biosecurity and ensures that every pet can be accounted for, reducing the risks of disease spread.

Though this regulation comes into effect in 2026, it's wise to start thinking ahead. If your pet isn't microchipped yet, now's a good time to get it done. It adds a layer of security for your pet and aligns you with Chile's future requirements. Keep in mind that while the costs for microchipping vary depending on your location and service provider, the peace of mind it brings is well worth it.

If you're planning to bring a ferret or any other exotic pet into Chile, prepare for a bit more paperwork than you would for a dog or cat. Chile has specific regulations for non-traditional pets, mainly to ensure the safety of the local ecosystem and to prevent the introduction of invasive species.

Ferrets and Exotic Pets

For ferrets, you'll need to obtain additional permits from the Agriculture and Livestock Service (SAG) in Chile. This applies to other exotic pets as well, such as certain reptiles or birds. These permits are essential to ensure that your pet meets the necessary health and safety standards required by Chilean authorities. The process typically involves providing detailed information about the pet, including its species, origin, and health records.

Keep in mind that the cost and time required for these permits can vary significantly, depending on the type of pet and its country of origin. It's a good idea to start the application process well before your planned departure to avoid any last-minute hiccups. If you're unsure about the specific requirements for your pet, contacting SAG or a professional pet relocation service is a wise move. They can offer guidance tailored to your situation, helping you navigate the paperwork and ensuring your pet's smooth entry into Chile.