Bringing a dog or a cat to Costa Rica is a paperwork problem, not a quarantine problem. There is no quarantine, but there is a health certificate with a fourteen-day window, a rabies record and a parasite treatment, so the timeline decides whether your pet flies with you.
The short version of the paperwork
The import process for dogs and cats is managed by SENASA, the national animal health service of Costa Rica. You will need an import permit and a valid health certificate to bring your animal into the country.
The airline will check your paperwork before you are allowed to board your flight. If the documents are incomplete or expired, you may be denied boarding.
It is essential to confirm current requirements with SENASA and your chosen airline before booking your travel. Regulations can change, and the airline’s specific rules are mandatory for travel.
The health certificate and the 14-day window
The most important document for your pet is the international health certificate. This must be issued by a veterinarian who is accredited in your country of origin.
For those coming from the United States, this means a USDA-accredited veterinarian. For those coming from Canada, you must use a CFIA-accredited veterinarian.
The timing of this certificate is critical. The examination must be carried out within the 14 days immediately preceding your travel date.
If the certificate is older than 14 days upon arrival, it will be refused. This strict window means you must coordinate your vet visit closely with your flight date.
Vaccines, parasite treatment and the import permit
Rabies vaccination is a mandatory requirement for all dogs and cats entering Costa Rica. You must provide documentation proving that the vaccination is current.
In addition to vaccines, you must provide proof of internal and external parasite treatment. This treatment must be administered within the 15 days before your arrival in Costa Rica.
The paperwork must explicitly state the date the treatment was given and the specific product used. General statements about parasite prevention are not sufficient for SENASA.
You will also need an import permit as part of the SENASA process. Ensure this is completed and available for inspection at the airport.
Flying: crates, airlines and the San Jose arrival
Airlines set their own individual rules regarding pet travel. These rules cover crate size, maximum weight, cabin access, and policies on sedation.
Because these rules change frequently, you must confirm the current requirements with your airline before you purchase your ticket. A crate that is acceptable to one airline may be rejected by another.
Most international flights land at Juan Santamaria airport in San Jose. This is the primary entry point for pets moving to the coast.
While there is a regional airport at La Managua near Quepos, it handles small aircraft. Space for pets on these regional flights is very limited.
When you land, your paperwork will be checked at the airport. Keep all original documents in your hand luggage. Do not pack them in your checked bags, as you will need them immediately.
Getting from the airport to Quepos with an animal
Juan Santamaria airport is approximately 157 km from Quepos. The drive typically takes between two and a half to three hours depending on traffic.
You must plan your transportation from the airport in advance. Dogs and cats are generally not allowed on public buses in Costa Rica.
Private shuttles or rental cars are the most reliable options for pet owners. You can read more about San Jose transportation to help plan your route.
Ensure your transport provider is aware that you have a pet and that the vehicle is suitable for the size of your animal’s crate.
Finding a rental that accepts pets
Finding a pet-friendly home requires a proactive approach. Rental listings in Costa Rica rarely state a specific pet policy in the description.
You should ask potential landlords directly and in writing if animals are allowed. Some buildings have strict rules and do not accept animals at all.
If a landlord agrees to a pet, expect to pay a security deposit or a small monthly fee. This is standard practice to cover potential wear and tear.
For those seeking furnished options, Brunxu provides clear information on rental rates and availability for those relocating to the area.
You can find more general advice on how to find an apartment in Costa Rica as a foreigner or browse long term rentals in Quepos.
The first month: heat, ticks and routine
The tropical climate of Costa Rica will change your pet’s daily routine. The midday heat is intense and can cause pavement to burn a dog’s paws.
Shift your walking schedule to the early morning and the hours after sunset. This keeps your pet safe from heat exhaustion and paw injuries.
Ticks, fleas, and heartworm are year-round concerns in this environment. There is no off-season for these parasites in the tropics.
Consistent prevention is necessary. It is significantly cheaper to maintain a prevention schedule than to treat a parasitic infection.
Veterinary care in the Quepos area
For daily needs, there is a veterinarian in Quepos who can handle routine care. This includes annual vaccinations and monthly parasite prevention.
If your pet requires specialist care or advanced diagnostics, you will need to travel to San Jose. The capital city has the necessary facilities for complex medical issues.
It is a good idea to establish a relationship with a local vet as soon as you arrive. This ensures your pet’s records are updated locally for any future needs.
A two-month countdown
Moving an animal is a process that takes several weeks of coordination. Do not wait until two weeks before your flight to begin the paperwork.
Start the process approximately two months before your departure. This gives you time to find an accredited veterinarian and secure your import permit.
Use the first month to verify the rabies vaccination status and order the correct crate. The second month is for the final health exam and parasite treatments.
Double check all dates on your documents. A mistake in the date of a parasite treatment can lead to delays at the airport.
Frequently asked questions
For more detailed queries, you can visit our frequently asked questions page.
Can my pet fly in the cabin to Costa Rica?
This depends entirely on the airline’s specific rules regarding weight and crate size. You must confirm cabin access with your airline before booking.
Do I need to microchip my pet?
The provided facts do not list microchipping as a requirement for entry. However, you should confirm all current requirements with SENASA.
Is there a quarantine on arrival?
Costa Rica does not require quarantine for dogs and cats arriving from most countries.
What does a vet visit cost in Costa Rica?
The specific cost of a veterinary visit is not listed in the official import requirements. You should contact a local vet in Quepos for current pricing.
If you have questions about your stay or need to make a reservation, please contact Brunxu via WhatsApp at +506 8853 8245.