Moving to Panama with your pet in 2025

To be able Bringing pets to Panama In 2025 in a legal and safe manner, it is essential to comply with a series of requirements established by the Ministry of Agricultural Development (MIDA) and the National Animal Health Service. These requirements seek to protect not only the health of animals that enter the country, but also that of people and other pets in the country.

Whether you are traveling for extended tourism or permanent transfer for the purpose of residence, any domestic animal, most commonly a dog or cat, is considered a pet. Here are the updated basic requirements:

1. Health Import Permit

This document must be requested from the Department of Agricultural Quarantine of the MIDA before entering the country. It is generally processed digitally (via email) or with the help of authorized agencies.

2. International Veterinary Certificate

Also known as an Animal Health Certificate, it must be issued by an accredited veterinarian in the country of origin, who validate that your pet is healthy and ready to travel. This document must be translated into Spanish and legalized (apostilled).

3. Rabies vaccine

The rabies vaccine is mandatory for all pets older than three months. It must have been applied at least 30 days before the trip and no more than 12 months before entering Panama.

4. Parasitic control

It must be stated on the veterinary certificate that your pet has received recent internal and external antiparasitic treatment.

5. Home quarantine (in many cases)

If all documents are in order, the National Quarantine Directorate may authorize a Quarantine at home of 40 days, eliminating the need for quarantine in government facilities. This option makes it much easier for the animal to adapt.

• Prior request for the home quarantine form
• Corresponding fee payment: approximately USD $130 - $150

Once you arrive in Panama, your pet will be inspected by veterinary staff at the airport. It's important to coordinate your arrival on business hours, as quarantine staff don't operate 24/7.

Failure to meet these requirements could represent a denial of entry or even forced quarantine in state facilities, which could be costly and stressful for both you and your pet. That's why it's vital to start this process at least 30 to 60 days in advance.

One of the most important steps for emigrate to Panama with animals In 2025 it is to collect and correctly present the mandatory veterinary documents. These certificates guarantee that your pet is in good health and that it does not pose a health risk when entering the country. Here are the essential details.

International Animal Health Certificate

This is a key document, issued by an authorized veterinary clinic in your country, where the animal's general state of health is certified. It is also known as health certificate, and must contain:

• Full description of the pet (type, breed, age, color, sex, microchip number if applicable)
• Statement from the veterinarian stating that the animal was examined within 10 days prior to the trip
• Confirmation of good health, without contagious diseases
• Detail of the vaccines applied, especially rabies vaccine
• Certification of administered antiparasitic treatments

This document must be Apostilled or legalized by the responsible entity in your country (such as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs) and then translated into Spanish if it is in another language. This makes it valid before the Panamanian authorities.

Vaccines required to enter Panama

In addition to the general certificate, Panama requires that imported animals have a complete vaccination schedule. For dogs and cats, the minimum vaccines required are:

For dogs:

• Rabies (valid between 30 days and 12 months before admission)
• Parvovirus
• Distemper
• Canine hepatitis

For cats:

• Rage
• Feline trivalent (calicivirus, herpesvirus, panleukopenia)

Vaccines must be reflected in the official vaccination record, which you must also present upon arrival. We recommend that you carry both physical and digital copies.

Not having any of these vaccines up to date can lead to entry restrictions or the imposition of a stricter quarantine, so the ideal is to consult your veterinarian at least two months before the date of travel. This way you can ensure that all treatments have been applied at the right time.

Remember that taking care of these details not only makes it easier Procedures for taking pets abroad, but it also protects your pet's health during a period of change, adaptation and possible stress.

One of the most important steps when moving to Panama with a pet is planning the flight. The air transport of pets is regulated by regulations both in the country of origin and in Panama, and it is essential to understand how to do it correctly to protect the health of your pet and avoid complications in customs.

Types of transport allowed by plane

Dogs and cats can travel to Panama by air in two main ways, depending on the size of the animal and the airline's policies:

• Cabin: for small animals (usually up to 8 kg) that can travel in a bag or carrier box under the seat.
• Pressurized warehouse: for medium or large pets, in a special, ventilated and heated compartment. It's safe if you follow the proper protocols.

Some airlines also offer the option of sending the pet as Carga Viva, especially if the owner is not traveling on the same flight. This option is often used on long international transfers.

Requirements for flying with pets to Panama

To board with your animal, airlines require specific documentation, which in many cases matches the legal requirements to enter Panama:

• Veterinary health certificate issued within the last 10 days before the flight
• Proof of vaccination (including current rabies vaccine).
• Homologated carrier (approved by IATA).
• Import form approved by the Ministry of Health of Panama.

In addition, you may need to make a special reservation with the airline in advance, as not all flights accept pets or have limited seating. Some routes or connections also restrict travel with animals during times of high heat, as a safety measure.

How much does it cost to bring a pet to Panama?

The price may vary depending on the airline, the size of the animal, the destination of origin and whether you are traveling in a cabin or in a hold. As a reference, the Average cost of transporting pets to Panama It is between $150 and $600 USD, although it can exceed $1,000 if you hire a specialized service.

Practical tips for a smooth flight

To reduce your pet's stress and prevent setbacks, we recommend:

• Get your dog or cat used to the carrier weeks before the flight.
• Avoid tranquilizers except on veterinary prescription.
• Label the cage with your data and those of the animal.
• Travel at times where the temperature is moderate.

Remember that, upon arrival in Panama, the authorities will review the documents again and may carry out a quick veterinary inspection at the airport. If everything is in order, no quarantine will be required, and you can continue your entry process without further delay.

Proper planning of the Pet transport not only does it speed up the move, but it also guarantees the well-being of your life partner during the process.

Once you and your pet have arrived on Panamanian soil, a new phase begins: adapting to daily life. Fortunately, living in Panama with a dog or cat can be a very positive experience, since the country has made progress in terms of inclusion and animal welfare in recent years. From pet-friendly housing options to outdoor spaces and veterinary infrastructure, Panama offers an environment that is increasingly prepared to welcome your pets.

Panama: an increasingly pet-friendly country

The country's main cities, such as Panama City and David, have multiple urban areas that accept pets both in homes and in public places. More and more buildings and homes allow animals, although many owners will request a letter of responsibility or the animal's updated vaccination history.

In terms of public spaces, parks, green areas and even shopping centers are being adapted with canine areas and permitted access. It's also common to see restaurants with pet-friendly terraces, where polite dogs are allowed.

Veterinary Care and Pet Products

Panama has a solid offer of veterinary services, from general clinics to specialists in dermatology, orthopedics or animal behavior. There are also veterinary hospitals that operate around the clock, especially in urban areas.

In addition, it's easy to find food, medicines and accessories for pets in specialty stores, supermarkets and even online shopping platforms. International brands such as Royal Canin, Hill's, Pedigree or Purina are widely available.

Regulations on domestic animals in public spaces

It is mandatory to keep dogs on a leash in public places and to collect their waste. Some parks require muzzles for potentially dangerous breeds. Fines for non-compliance can exceed $100 USD, depending on the municipality. Traveling on public transport with loose animals is also prohibited, unless they are certified assistance pets.

Is it easy to integrate with a pet into daily life?

Yes, especially if your pet is well socialized and your documents are up to date. The local community, both Panamanians and foreigners, generally shows a positive attitude towards animals, and there are quite a few social media groups where they can share advice on Life with pets in Panama.

There are even options for the entertainment and well-being of your pet, such as daycares for dogs, certified walkers, bath rooms and dog grooming shops. If you travel frequently, you can also find hotels or residences that offer temporary accommodation for pets.

Adapting to the lifestyle in Panama with your pet can be simple if you inform yourself in advance about local regulations and choose suitable neighborhoods and services. After a somewhat bureaucratic arrival process, you and your pet are likely to discover a new home filled with amenities and opportunities to enjoy together.

And if along the way you need legal advice or formal support for both your and your pet's migration issues, Limitless Legal is here to help.

While taking your pets with you during an international move may seem like a purely logistical or veterinary process, it actually also involves important legal and migratory aspects — especially if you're planning to Move to Panama with a view to establishing yourself permanently or requesting residence in the country.

From the correct management of customs forms, to temporary permits issued by the Ministry of Agricultural Development (MIDA), there are specific regulations that control the pet entry to Panama. Even if you complete veterinary documents, a legal error can delay your pet's release from the airport or result in unforeseen fines.

At Limitless Legal, we understand that every case is different. That's why we provide comprehensive legal support focused on making this process as smooth and safe as possible for you and your pet.

What kind of legal assistance can you receive?

Our team can help you manage the following procedures related to Bringing pets to Panama:

• Coordination with Panamanian authorities to avoid unnecessary delays or quarantines.
• Validation of documents for pets required by current legislation.
• Review of health certificates, international vaccines (such as rage), and its legalization/apostille.
• Preparation of forms required by the Department of Agricultural Quarantine.
• Assistance when entering the country — especially useful if you are traveling with stopover or multiple pets.
• Counseling for special cases (emotional support pets, restricted breeds, older animals or animals with medical conditions).

All of this is done in parallel —or integrated— with other migratory processes if you are requesting a residence in Panama, because we understand that your pet is an essential part of that transition.

Why having professional advice can make a difference

In practice, many problems related to pet entry to Panama occur due to lack of clear information: poorly translated documents, expired deadlines, misunderstood airport requirements, or expired vaccines. An attorney with experience in these areas can help you avoid these setbacks right from the start.

In addition, if you have plans to live in Panama with your dog or cat in the long term, having legal support will give you greater peace of mind to formalize all aspects of the process safely.

Whether you are starting to prepare for your move or are in advanced stages, at Limitless Legal we ensure that you and your furry companion can cross borders without unnecessary shocks or complications.