Operators flying dogs or pet birds from the United States to Mexico now face new New World screwworm documentation requirements. Dogs returning to the U.S. from Mexico also need separate certification, making this a round-trip planning issue rather than an arrival-only requirement.

The new Mexico entry requirements take effect Aug. 3, 2026.

Dogs entering Mexico

Dogs traveling from the U.S. must carry a New World screwworm inspection certificate signed by a USDA-accredited veterinarian and issued no more than five days before entry.

The certificate does not replace Mexico’s normal arrival inspection. After landing, the owner must present the dog to SENASICA personnel, who will check for infectious or contagious disease, ectoparasites, and fresh or healing wounds.

“The five-day window is the part operators need to watch. This is not paperwork that can be completed weeks ahead and forgotten. If the schedule changes, the document timing may need to change with it.”

Ryan Masters, Master Mission Advisor, World Fuel | Universal Trip Support

Cats are not affected by the new screwworm requirement and do not need a general health certificate when traveling from the U.S. They remain subject to SENASICA inspection upon arrival.

Pet bird travel resumes with new requirements

Pet bird travel from the U.S. to Mexico also resumes Aug. 3 under new screwworm controls.

Birds must carry a New World screwworm inspection addendum completed by a USDA-accredited veterinarian within five days of entry. This is required in addition to the existing veterinary health certificate, which must receive APHIS endorsement before travel. The addendum must reference the official health certificate number.

Separate highly pathogenic avian influenza restrictions may still prevent birds from traveling from certain states or counties. Operators should confirm the bird’s origin is eligible before arranging the trip.

Mexico also requires birds to remain at the destination listed in the waybill for 30 days after arrival.

Dogs returning to the United States

Dogs returning from Mexico to the U.S. need separate screwworm-freedom certification after an inspection completed within five days of travel.

The certification may be issued by a clinical veterinarian in Mexico who has been trained and authorized to sign on behalf of the official government veterinarian. Not every local veterinarian can issue it, so operators should identify an authorized provider before the trip begins.

“The return leg is where this can catch people out. You do not want to be searching for an authorized veterinarian the day before departure. We recommend solving that before the aircraft leaves the U.S.”

Ryan Masters, Master Mission Advisor, World Fuel | Universal Trip Support

Operators must also review current CDC requirements for any dog entering or returning to the United States. Those requirements are separate from the USDA screwworm certification.

What operators should do

Flag any dog or pet bird early in the trip-planning process.

Confirm which documents apply, arrange the U.S. veterinary inspection within the required five-day window, and identify an authorized veterinarian in Mexico for any dog returning to the United States. Send copies of available documentation to the handler and reconfirm validity if the itinerary changes.

The animal should also arrive in a clean carrier. Mexico may remove and destroy bedding, toys, or excess food found inside, and only the food needed for the day of arrival is permitted.

“Pets can feel like a small detail compared with permits, slots and parking, but one missing veterinary document can still delay the entire mission. The earlier we know an animal is traveling, the more options we have.”

Ryan Masters, Master Mission Advisor, World Fuel | Universal Trip Support

Conclusion

The new screwworm controls create separate requirements on each side of the trip.

Dogs need an inspection certificate before entering Mexico and separate certification before returning to the United States. Pet birds face new documentation requirements for entry, while cats are exempt from the new screwworm rules.

Early coordination among the pet owner, veterinarian, handler and Mission Advisor is the best way to keep the paperwork from becoming a departure-day problem.