Barbados, with its white sandy beaches and vibrant lifestyle, is not just a dream for travelers—it’s also a top destination for people relocating overseas. For many, moving or vacationing without their beloved pets isn’t an option. Whether you’re planning a short holiday or a long-term relocation, Barbados has clear rules in place to ensure pets arrive safely and comfortably. Understanding the requirements can save you stress, time, and unexpected costs.
Here’s everything you need to know about bringing your pet to Barbados:
🐾 Entry Requirements & Permits
- An Import Permit from the Barbados Veterinary Services Department is mandatory for all animals. The fee is BDS $25.
- Permits are valid for six months from the date of issue.
- All dogs and cats must be microchipped with a chip that complies with ISO Standard 11784 or Annex A to ISO 11785.
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💉 Vaccinations, Tests & Health Certificates
- Rabies vaccination is required for dogs and cats. It must be administered after the microchip is implanted.
- Pets can only enter Barbados after a 35-day waiting period following the rabies vaccination (or re-vaccination).
- Dogs over six months require heartworm testing, and both dogs and cats must be treated for ticks and tapeworms within 7 days before travel.
- An Official Export Health Certificate, signed by a licensed veterinarian and endorsed by the governmental vet authority in your country, must accompany your pet.
📆 Timing & Notifications
- Notify the Barbados Veterinary Services at least 3 working days before arrival, providing details such as arrival time, flight or vessel information, owner/agent name, and customs broker.
- All microchipping, vaccinations, treatments, and certificates must be in order before travel. Missing or delayed paperwork may result in refusal of entry.
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🛬 Arrival, Fees & Customs
- Pets must go through veterinary inspection at Grantley Adams International Airport. The Animal Reception Centre handles checks and customs clearance.
- Expect fees such as:
- Landing certificate fee – approx. BDS $60 per animal
- Veterinary inspection fees (higher if arrival is outside regular working hours, weekends, or holidays)
- Customs duties, as pets are treated similarly to cargo for clearance purposes.
❌ Do Pets Need Quarantine?
- If all requirements are met, no quarantine is required for dogs or cats entering Barbados.
🐦 What About Other Pets?
- The rules also apply to animals other than cats and dogs — including birds, rabbits, pocket pets, exotics, and livestock.
- These species have specific conditions that depend on the animal type and country of origin.
- Import permits, health certificates, and possible disease testing or restrictions will apply, but the exact requirements vary.
- For non-dog/cat pets, it’s essential to contact Barbados Veterinary Services directly to confirm the latest conditions before travel.
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💡 Practical Tips & Things to Watch
- Use an IATA-approved airline crate for safe air travel.
- Ensure the microchip number matches exactly across all documents (health certificate, vaccination record, microchip registration).
- Carry original copies of all certificates and permits.
- Consider hiring a customs broker experienced with pet imports to simplify paperwork and avoid delays.
- Plan carefully around weekends and holidays to prevent extra fees and slow processing.
🌴 Final Thoughts
Bringing pets to Barbados in 2025 is straightforward if you follow the island’s regulations closely. With the right preparation – permits, vaccinations, and proper planning – you can enjoy the island lifestyle without leaving your companion behind. For both travelers and expats, Barbados remains one of the more pet-friendly Caribbean destinations, making it easier than ever to combine adventure, relocation, and pet ownership.
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