Pet Transport USA to Colombia: No Permit Required, but Get the USDA Certificate Right

The USDA health certificate for Colombia must list all required vaccinations by name and date. Dogs need more than just a rabies record: Colombia’s ICA requires Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza, and Leptospirosis on top of rabies. Cats need Panleukopenia, Calicivirus, and Rhinotracheitis. Ensure your USDA-accredited vet lists all of these explicitly on the certificate, as a missing vaccine can cause problems at the ICA inspection.

Colombia may require the health certificate in Spanish or accompanied by a certified Spanish translation. Some USDA forms are available in bilingual versions. Check the current ICA requirement with your vet or a pet transport agent before the appointment. The certificate is valid for 10 days, and USDA APHIS endorsement takes 2-10 business days, so time the vet appointment 8-9 days before travel.

Colombia is well-served from the US by American Airlines, United, and Avianca, all of which accept small pets in the cabin. If your dog or cat is small enough (typically under 20 lbs total with carrier), cabin travel is often the preferred option as it reduces the time your pet spends separated from you. Larger pets travel as cargo in the hold.

On arrival at El Dorado International Airport in Bogota or another Colombian entry airport, ICA (Instituto Colombiano Agropecuario) veterinary officers inspect arriving pets before you clear regular customs. Bring the original USDA health certificate plus a photocopy. The inspection is typically quick for pets with complete documentation. A small inspection fee of approximately 50,000-100,000 COP is charged.