An import permit for bringing dogs and cats to South Africa must be obtained prior to entry into the country.
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency's (CFIA's) webpage does not include an exhaustive description of all the conditions for exporting dogs and cats to South Africa. As such, the information included on this webpage must be read in conjunction with the import permit and the relevant information available on South Africa's website.
Note: Dogs are required to test negative for several diseases, including Trypanosoma evansi (surra). The required testing for Trypanosoma evansi is currently not available in Canada however, there are international laboratories which offer the required diagnostic testing. The exporter is responsible for obtaining the necessary diagnostic testing to meet South Africa's requirements. If there are any questions surrounding this testing, exporters should contact the South African authorities for clarification.
Veterinary Health Certificates must be completed and signed by your licensed veterinarian. Following completion and signing by your licensed veterinarian, it must then be reviewed and endorsed by a CFIA Official Veterinarian.
Contact your local CFIA Animal Health Office to book any necessary appointments for CFIA review and endorsement. Please ensure that the completed and signed Veterinary Health Certificate, as well as a copy of all other supporting documents are brought to this appointment. This includes documents such as, the South African issued import permit, all laboratory test reports, all vaccination certificates, and all treatment/examination records from the licensed veterinarian.
Do not use the Veterinary Health Certificate that is included with the import permit issued by South Africa. Instead, use the following Veterinary Health Certificates:
- Veterinary Health Certificate – Cat (HA2124) – PDF (178 kb)
- Veterinary Health Certificate – Dog (HA2123) – PDF (198 kb)
Print these certificates on legal paper (8.5" X 14").
Please note that South Africa may change these import requirements without notification to the CFIA. As a result, it is strongly advised that the exporter should always confirm with the South African Competent Authority before travelling and review the export certificate against the import permit to ensure that all requirements are addressed.
If you have any difficulties viewing the information contained on this website or if you have any questions about information on this page, please contact the CFIA Animal Health Office in your area.