Getting a Bahamas Pet Permit is reasonably straightforward. There are two ways to do it, both detailed below. You can do it all yourself or you can do it mostly online and have an agent handle the form in Nassau. Surprisingly, the agent costs less than the overnight shipping if you do it yourself! I highly recommend doing it that way, but have also included directions for doing it yourself, which we’ve done twice.
General Information
The process is the same for dogs and cats and works basically like this:
- You send the application and a money order to the Bahamas.
- You get a permit in return, either via fax or mail. (New in 2020: you do not get a certificate of health for the vet to sign; vets now provide their own form)
- Make sure you have the pet’s rabies certificate.
- Just before you leave for the Bahamas (while you’re waiting for the final weather window), take the pet to the vet and get a certificate of health. If necessary, get the other vaccinations.
Prohibited Breeds
As of June 2018, the Bahamas restricts several breeds of dogs and cats from entry.
The following pure breed dogs or their mixes are not allowed to enter the Bahamas:
- Pitbull
- Presa Canario
- Cane Corso
- American Bully
- Staffordshire Terrier
- Dogo Argentino
The following pure breed cats or their mixes are not allowed to enter the Bahamas:
- Savannah Cat
- Bengal Cat
- Chausie
NOTE: These are the prohibited breeds as of when I’m writing this (updated through March 2020). Requirements can change. Check here for current requirements.
Your Pet Must Be Microchipped
As of June 2018, the Bahamas does require that pets be microchipped (Trovan, Avid or HomeAgain specified).
Rabies Certificate
Your pet has probably already had its rabies shot, but it has to be administered within certain dates of your stay in the Bahamas. Check here for current requirements, but as I write this, the requirements are:
- One year vaccine: more than one month before date of arrival and no more than 10 months before date of arrival.
- Three year vaccine: more than one month before date of arrival and no more than 34 months before date of arrival.
Make sure you have the original certificate.
Other Vaccinations
The health certificate, signed by your vet, must state that the pet has “adequate levels of immunity” for the diseases listed below as well as external and internal parasites. You can check the current requirements here.
Dogs:
- Distemper
- Hepatitis
- Parvovirus
- Leptospirosis
- Adenovirus
- Coronavirus
Cats:
- Feline Leukemia
- Feline Rhinotracheitis
- Feline Calicivirus
- Feline Panleukopenia
- Feline Pneumonitis
Veternarian Visit
The pet import rules say that the certificate of health must be completed by your vet no more than 48 hours before arrival in the Bahamas. This is obviously impractical for travel by boat and the Bahamas officials realize it (the regulations were written for the vast majority of people who arrive by plane). Visit the vet as you are waiting for your weather window.
Ask around wherever you’re prepping for your trip and you’ll find out what vets most cruisers use for the health certificate. Here in Marathon, the prevailing fee is $100 (no shots or anything, just to examine the animal and fill out the form).
The vet will have their own form for the certificate of health (one used to come with the permit but no longer is). When you make the appointment, be sure to say that you need a health certificate for the Bahamas to make sure that you get an appointment with a vet who can sign it.
The official rules also say that the animal must be presented to a Bahamian vet within 48 hours of arrival. I have never heard of this being actually required; in fact, there are no vets in the majority of the ports of entry so it would be impossible. Don’t worry about it.
Cost
Assuming your dog or cat is up to date on its shots, here’s an approximation of the cost.
Using Wellington Saunders’ Bahamas Pet Permit Service:
- $57 per pet, inclusive of government fees
- $100 vet fee (Prevailing fee here in Marathon)
Doing it yourself:
- $16.20 paid to the Bahamas government + international money order fee of $4.75 — must be obtained from the post office
- $70+ for UPS or FedEx*
- $100 vet fee (Prevailing fee here in Marathon)
Simply put, it’s cheaper to use Wellington’s service, not to mention easier.
*I was told that it’s best by far to use FedEx/UPS/DHL to send the application and pay the extra $5 to get it faxed back. This cuts down on the time and uncertainty considerably. (NOTE: I do know people who have sent theirs by regular mail; some got them back in about 3 months, others had their applications lost and had to re-send.)
Bahamas Pet Import Permit Online
A Bahamian, Wellington Saunders, started a service in the fall of 2018 so that you can get your permit online. I used his service in the summer of 2019 and it worked perfectly. I also know many other cruisers who have used him and had very quick service.
If you have a single pet, his fee is actually cheaper than sending it yourself. See his Bahamas Pet Import Permit website — he has a lot of information and current forms there, too.
The basic process is:
- You fill out the application online and submit it and a copy of the rabies certificate.
- Wellington will send you a PayPal invoice for the fee, which includes his services and the government fees. You pay online with a credit card or through your PayPal account.
- Wellington submits the forms to the Bahamas Department of Agriculture.
- When the permit is approved, Wellington picks it up, scans it and emails it to you.
- You still have to do the vet visit in the US on your own.
Wellington recommends submitting the application to him at least two weeks before you plan to leave the US. However, he often gets applications processed in 5 days or less. Apply early just to be on the safe side!
Getting Your Own Bahamas Pet Permit
Get a Fax Number
You’re going to need to have a fax number where the permit can be faxed to you. If you don’t opt for having it faxed back, it will take 6 to 8 weeks from when it is processed for it to be mailed to you.
IMPORTANT: Do not use a toll-free fax number. Toll free numbers cannot be dialed from foreign countries, including the Bahamas.
You can use a marina fax number or one from the local UPS store or other “office services” store. My preference, however, is to use a free fax-to-email service so that it comes straight to me. This way, the document is saved to my computer and I can print out additional copies if I need to.
I use eFax free. It gives you a 14 day free trial. Faxes are then sent directly to your email as a PDF attachment (won’t work with Sailmail; may work with Winlink but it’s a better bet to specify a “land” email). I discovered that the sign up website did not work for me with Chrome & Windows 10, but was fine with Windows Edge (the successor to Internet Explorer). If you have problems, I’d suggest trying again with a different browser.
You’ll get a confirmation email with your fax number.
Get and Complete the Application
- Download the application (PDF) here and print it out.
- Complete the form.
- For date of arrival, make a reasonable guess. The Bahamas realize that boaters’ plans change and it’s not a big deal.
- For destination island, other cruisers said they used the furthest island they thought they might visit.
- For purpose of importing animal, say something like “pleasure cruising aboard private boat.”
Money Order
Go to the post office and get an INTERNATIONAL money order. Make sure it’s international, not domestic. Several cruisers told me it was their experience that the Bahamas preferred money orders from the post office to other types.
- $16.20 per pet to have form faxed back ($10 fee + $5 fax-back + $1.20 VAT). All pets can be combined in one money order.
- Make the money order out to “Bahamas Department of Agriculture”
- Fill in the address, etc. on the money order.
Sending the Application
Use UPS or FedEx. Other companies or USPS do not deliver as reliably and some will insist there has to be a postal code, when there are none in the Bahamas. If you are asked about a ZIP code or postal code, there is none.
Get the tracking number and make sure it gets delivered.
IMPORTANT: If you send the form by US mail, allow 6 to 8 weeks for it to arrive in the Bahamas. Then it still has to be processed and sent back to you (another 6 to 8 weeks if you don’t use the fax-back option).
Receiving the Permit
With luck, about a week after you send the application you’ll receive the pet import permit via fax. Check to make sure it’s complete with the signatures at the bottom and official stamp (a friend of ours had the signatures and stamp cut off his fax). I overnighted our documents on Monday and got the permit via fax-to-email on Wednesday afternoon. It would probably be an extra day or two if I had sent it by Fed Ex.
If you do not receive the permit or there is any problem with it, contact the Department of Agriculture.
Tel. (242) 397-7450/325-7438
E-mail: [email protected]
Phone is best, and you can use Skype to avoid the cost of an international call.
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Janet O'Toole says
Excellent information, thanks!
Connie Smith says
It’s great that you are so helpful in sharing your knowledge.
Paul Vogt says
Great info make sure that you FedEx or ups. I have sent requests via us mail and they were never received.
The Boat Galley says
I do know of a few people that had okay results with mailing, but more who have had problems. I think it’s a much better bet to FedEx.
Angie Livers says
Hi Carolyn.
What was your total time it took to get everything?
Is there a time limit on the permit issued?
Thanks for more details.
The Boat Galley says
Took me three days from when I sent it off, then add whatever it takes for the vet appointment. But I wouldn’t count on it being that fast — I’d allow a couple weeks to be on the safe side in case something is lost and has to be re-sent. I was told that we must enter Bahamas within a year of when the permit was issued (and as soon after the vet certificate as possible).
Kathy J says
Thanks for the updated address info and the heads up re using an international money order. Went through this process in November 2015 and they managed to lose the documents sent by UPS even though I had the name of person who signed for them. Allowed me to fax forms to them and waived fee.
Angie Livers says
Thank so much.
We are in the ending stages of land-lubber/work-robot lives, and I am researching everything we need to plan for. Having an animal adds a bit to the budget as well as time planning when moving from “country” to country. Not just the weather… Might hold up your move.
All the more reason to not to plan to be somewhere where someone might be waiting for you!
Sue Webb says
Thank you for this all important info! We also are in the late stages of land living to move aboard with pets! So much to plan for!!
The Boat Galley says
My suggestion is not to try to plan for everything at once, but take it as it comes. Otherwise, it’s overwhelming!
Sue Webb says
I believe it! Thanks again
Jacqueline Carlsten Stepp says
The hardest part for us was the Health check 48 hrs before crossing which can be hard sailing. In the end – our customs agent never even looked at the paperwork. Glad we had it all anyway.
Carolyn Dauphin says
My question would be “how do you do it coming the other way…from the south?”
The Boat Galley says
Haven’t done it that way yet — maybe someone else can answer how it REALLY works . . .
Diane Elizabeth Larson says
Thank you!
Marie Raney says
I am currently in the Bahamas with my dog, and I went through this process in December. And yes, all they SEEMED to care about was the rabies vaccination, but I thought I should mention that other tests are required also and could be a problem if someone decided to be a stickler. After my vet had signed the paperwork we read the small print and realized that a “negative fecal floatation exam” was required to verify the pet is free from internal parasites. Since my pet had already pooped, and I was on my way out of town, I just prayed it would work out, and it did, no one asked for the fecal exam paperwork. But…. it’s a quick test, you should probably plan to do it. BTW – my vet told me as I left that they would no longer do international health certificate exams. I guess they didn’t like the process…
Also required are these immunizations: distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, leptospirosis, adenovirus, and coronavirus. I could not find a vet that could do all these, so I ended up getting the leptospriosis at a second vet! And that vet could not have done one of the others. So I suggest you all read the permit carefully when you get it and discuss it well ahead of time with your vet; be prepared to use more than one vet if necessary!
A third complication was that most vets in Washington state do not carry heart worm since it is not an issue in that state. Sailors leaving from Washington state to Hawaii, for example, or Mexico, might need to plan ahead to get this in time. Once again I left it late and only received my mail order heartworm pills an hour before we left. I thought I could just pick it up but that’s not guaranteed.
Gwendolyn Webster says
Although we don’t have a pet on our boat, this is all very interesting information. Where will you be staying over in the Bahamas? We are going for the month of May and will be staying on Bimini. We’d love to visit!
Carolyn Shearlock says
Love to meet you! We don’t have an itinerary — it’ll be weather and mood dependant!
Kate says
Thank you, Carolyn, for terrific information, from a completely different viewpoint. I have a service dog that loves to sail (yaay!!). While I’m not anticipating sailing internationally (at this time, anyway), since I do depend on my canine partner, this certainly is useful/vital information to have. Additionally, I would offer the thought to make sure interstate health permits are in order if a cruise from the “lower 48” to Hawaii is in your plans. I’m aware of situations that required frantic phone calls from the airport to home to clear a service dog to enter Hawaii when papers weren’t available. Each state’s department of agriculture should be able to point you in the correct direction to avoid problems.
(And yes, I’m aware that the Americans with Disabilities Act very often does not have a similar counterpart overseas!)
Carolyn Shearlock says
We’ve never tried to take a dog to Hawaii but I know that it’s a much more involved undertaking than just going to the airport. Hawaii is rabies-free and still has quarantine restrictions if you don’t 100% meet certain requirements and paperwork.
Marie Raney says
I have an article on that here: https://sailingeurybia.com/importing-pets-to-hawaii/ We did it 8 years ago and are in the process of doing it for a second time now. The process hasn’t changed since they instituted the “five-days-or-less” program.
Mark Chenoweth says
and the interesting thing is, in the 3 winters we’ve spent in the Bahamas, we’ve never had a single Bahamian official ask for, or check, our pet permit. It’s all about the money!
Windsong II says
We have cruised the Bahamas with two dogs. We have had issues using the mail to obtain our permits. We did spend $58 once with UPS to send in our papers for the second time.
One tip I picked up from a marina owner. He told me if we were going to get a slip in his Marina to email him and he would take care of the paper work and fax it back to us in 24 hrs. (Now that might be Bahamian hours?). I don’t know if they all have the ability to do this or interest, but might be a consideration. The marina was in Freeport.
We have never been asked for a pet permit.
We will not have our dogs with us this year they have both passed on.
We hope to see you in the Bahamas this season !
Bob
Jan Beagle says
Thank you, Carolyn, for putting all this information down so clearly. Now we can direct new cruisers to this link when they question us about what they need to do to bring a pet to the Bahamas. Regarding cruisers who have never been asked if they have a pet, the official checking you in does not ask that question, but you should always volunteer that you have a pet aboard. We have brought a dog with us to the Bahamas five times and have always informed the officials while checking in. Last year, while in Georgetown, Customs and Immigration visited our boat. They did not board but came alongside. We came out and of course our dog Sailor came to greet them too. They asked to see our paperwork and saw that we had declared we had a pet aboard. On our cruising permit received when we checked in, the official wrote in the section Duty Not Paid, “1 Dog Permit #2015/11261.” Also in that section he listed our kayaks, our dinghy and motor and our Hawaiian Sling. I don’t want to imagine what would have happened if we had not declared our dog because the officials who visited us specifically commented that we had a dog and we had declared him.
Roxanne Peters Cooper says
Hi Carolyn! Thanks for the step-by-step guide. Lots of great info here. We are also in BKH preparing for the Bahamas. You may have seen us around being walked by the big black lab. Which veterinarian did you use for the certificate of health?
Carolyn Shearlock says
Haven’t done ours yet — we hope to leave in mid-March and you don’t do the vet cert until you’re just waiting for the weather window. But the one that most cruisers use is the 24-hour vet clinic between Home Depot and Office Depot, same side of the street. We’re told it’s $100 without any shots.
If you see us ashore, come say HI — I know Paz would love to meet your lab!
Vicky Chertok says
Thank you for all the great info! Has anyone tried using the USPS priority mail instead of the UPS or FedEx?
Crystal Bleecher says
We used USPS priority and it took about 6-7 weeks for us to get the permit. Like the article suggests, I’d FedEx it.
Maryvonne La Peyre says
Love the detailed info, thank you so much for sharing! We are planning another trip to the Bahamas this year but now have a new crew member … a 6 mo kitten. I know other cat owners simply bring their feline friends in without permits but I think we will do the right thing just to be safe. Quick question …. does anyone know if it’s possible to fly in & out of the Bahamas with pets? I would only take her if I can carry her on board in a crate. We may have to leave the boat for a while & return to the US. Any info would be great.
Cheers & thanks!
Marlee Puskar says
Valuable information….thanks for the step by step guide.
I had some confusion at the FedEx office with the address that is published in the article, so I called the Dept of Agriculture to verify the correct address. The woman that I spoke with said to send it to:
Gladstone & Munnings Road
Nassau, Bahamas
You do not need the New Providence……it was confusing the FedEx agent
It cost $51.89 to send the documents International Priority from Merritt Island FL to Nassau, Bahamas,
Carolyn Shearlock says
Thanks for the info! I had taken it from the Dept. of Ag. website . . . it’s the island that Nassau is on.
Rose Sherby says
Hello! We are flying into Marsh Harbour via Airgate airlines on May 26th. Both of our dogs are accompanying us and we are sailing our boat back to the U.S. I understand the process of obtaining the pet permit and health certificate. Does the Bahamas require a distemper/parvo vaccine? Our girls get all other vaccines but I get titers done on those two. I always thought that the rabies vaccine was the only one required. Thank you so much for your reply!
Carolyn Shearlock says
If I were you, I’d call them to get “official” information. The shots and so forth are listed on the pet permit.
Tel. (242) 397-7450/325-7438
Fax. (242) 325-3960
E-mail: [email protected]
Opening hours: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday to Friday, except public holidays
sandra says
I need to find out, if I have a dog that is diabetic and has other medical issues…can I do a distemper titer instead of doing the vaccination?
Carolyn Shearlock says
Call the Bahamas Dept. of Agriculture and ask them directly: 242-325-7502 (dial this number as though it were a US number — put a 1 in front of it if dialing from landline. You will be charged an international rate, however.
Rose says
Hello!
I had asked the same question regarding titers (distemper/parvo). After a few attempts calling the Bahamas Dept. of Agriculture I was told that would be fine but that I would need a letter from my Vet stating why this was done.After the titers were done for the sixth year in a row my dog wasn’t protected against distemper so we went ahead and gave the vaccine with no issue (thank goodness!)
The Bahamas still require the other vaccinations including corona which in the U.S. most Vets don’t give anymore because the parvo vaccine is effective in preventing this corona virus and corona is usually mild and not life threatening like parvo virus.
My dogs will still get the corona vaccination which my Vet had to buy from another Vet that still administers it. Make sure to call the Dept. of Ag. anyways since they may have changed their minds on getting a letter from your Vet.
Kristin Reid says
What vet sold the Coronavirus vaccine to your vet? I’m desperately searching for one in my state and no one gives it here anymore because it’s such a dry climate.
Carolyn Shearlock says
I honestly have no idea where our vet gets her meds. I Googled on “buy coronavirus vaccine” and came up with many sources, most are combined with other vaccines.
Tracy Woodring says
Hi,
Thank you very much for sharing this information, very helpful!
Could you tell me what island you cleared through customs? Also which vet did you use for the exam needed within 48 hours of entering? Thanks!
Carolyn Shearlock says
We will be going to Bimini (hopefully in about 2 weeks). Marathon Veterinary, within walking distance of Boot Key Harbor. When you’re on a boat, they’re more liberal with the 48 hour requirement as they understand weather windows and longer transit times. We know many people who have taken pets from Marathon to Bimini or West End this year and none have had problems with the time deadline.
Tracy Woodring says
Great – thank you for getting back to me so quickly. We were thinking Bimini would work well for us.
Did you have to take your pet to a vet in the Bahammas within 48 hours of entry? I read in one of the Bahama sites this is required? Thanks
Carolyn Shearlock says
No, I have not heard of anyone having to do this.
Tracy Woodring says
That is great to hear, thank you and I hope you have a safe trip.
Willow Melamet says
We are having issues finding a vet that carries and administers the feline pneumonitis vaccine. Anyone else have trouble getting this vaccination? We are currently in Key West.
Any information would be greatly appreciated!
Carolyn Shearlock says
Considering that all the vets in the Keys are very used to completing the paperwork for a Bahamas Pet Import permit, I’d just ask what they recommend. They may be willing to sign anyway.
Dawn says
Have you tried banfield hospitals usually in petsmart. I take my service dog there for her lepo shot for her trips to the Bahamas.
Leah Young says
I am traveling to Marsh Harbour on or around 5/20…and I already got my health certificate from my Vet. I did a a ton of research and didn’t see this 48 hour before arrival window. 🙁 Will I need to get another certificate? I hope not, they were $130 each for my two dogs!!!
Also- UPS has tried to deliver my pet import app twice now…and it keeps saying that no one is there to receive it. Today (Monday) is a holiday, but they are doing a final attempt tomorrow. I’m hoping it is delivered.
Leah Young says
* I’m traveling by plane.
Carolyn Shearlock says
I don’t know how picky they are when arriving by plane. Be sure to leave a note on your door for UPS tomorrow with a signature!
Misha says
Hello,
I appreciate your sharing. It is great!!. may I ask did you send the money order in US dollars or in Bahamas dollars?
The exchange rate is 1:1 so I guess it does not matter but we are from Canada and in that case it would matter. Canada post does not offer money order in Bahamas dollars, only in US or CA dollars…
Has anybody thoughts? Did you all send the money order in US dolalrs or in Bahamas dollars??
Thank you in advance
Carolyn Shearlock says
Make it an INTERNATIONAL money order in US dollars — that’s what I did, and US dollars are accepted everywhere.
Misha says
Carolyn, thank you very much:). will do.
Karen Mason says
Hi Carolyn!
Thank you for the detailed info. I do have one question though. At the VERY end of the article it reads the west end doesn’t even look at the paperwork. They quickly stamp it and ask fro the $300.” What is the $300 dollars for? I’m trying to calculate and all in total. Is this an additional fee upon arrival?? We’re crusing to the west end for a week and I’m trying to decide if a pet sitter would be less expensive.
Carolyn Shearlock says
The $300 (or $150 for boats under 35 feet) is for your cruising permit . . . have to pay it whether or not you have a pet! I edited the article to hopefully make that clear.
Karen Mason says
AHH! Yes, I was wondering if that was the same, I didn’t want to assume though!
Lynle Go says
Hello Carolyn,
Has anybody ever encountered any issues with sending through Purolator with the address above (that has no postal code)? I was just about to send the application and money order through Purolator (which I had done back in 2014 when I did visit Andros Island with my dog) but now, I’ve been given the runaround and told that it was not possible to send this via Purolator to the PO box address and without a postal code. It was a very frustrating day to say the least. I want to know if I am going to encounter the same problem with Fed Ex or UPS? Thank you very much!
Carolyn Shearlock says
I used UPS with no postal code and everything I know is that the Bahamas does NOT use postal codes . . . there literally is none. I’ve never used Purolator so can’t speak to them wanting a postal code.
Lynle Go says
Thanks Carolyn! So the PO box was not an issue with Fed Ex either? I have a sneaky suspicion I was just dealing with extremely unmotivated Purolator employees that don’t go beyond the minimum, in terms of their jobs.
Carolyn Shearlock says
For UPS and Fed Ex, use the STREET address in the post above. Do NOT use the PO Box that is on the form. That is an OLD address.
Lynle Go says
Thanks Carolyn! I guess I got confused with the new address since I went to check the Bahamian government website for the Department of Agriculture and took the address down from there:
Department of Agriculture
Darville’s Business Complex
Gladstone and Munnings Roads
P.O. Box N3028
Nassau, New Providence
The Bahamas
Anyway, I’ve taken your advice and sent out the import permit request using just the street address, no PO box number and used UPS. No troubles at all! I should have gone with UPS from the beginning, it was pretty much hassle free. Thanks again for all the information you’ve provided!
Lynle Go says
Hello Carolyn,
I sent in my permit application more than a month ago, using the new address. I paid the money order in USD and paid the extra $5.00 for the fax service. I still have not heard back. UPS confirmed that the letter was sent and was received. Can it take this long to process? I’ve tried emailing a couple of times and tried calling but I am not getting any answers. I’ve done this application before and was successful. So now I am not sure what the problem is and I can’t get a hold of anyone. Do you have a phone number that I can for sure get a hold of anyone?
Carolyn Shearlock says
Boy, I don’t know. I had the fax back within a couple of days of when they received it, and then they mailed a hard copy to me that I got back about a week later. Have you double checked that the fax number was correct on what you sent in? Everyone that I know of who has called or emailed has gotten an answer.
I have the following (voice) phone numbers for the Department of Agriculture (put a 1 in front of any of these if dialing from a landline):
(242) 325-7413
(242) 325-7509
(242) 325-7438
(242) 325-3898
(242) 322-2067
and the email address that I have is [email protected]
Hope that helps!
Lynle Go says
Thanks so much Carolyn. I tried the email address you gave me and hope someone responds on the other end. I will try the list of numbers you’ve also given me. I tried calling that first number but kept getting a strange intermittent beeping sound on the other end, followed by a buzzing sound (almost like a fax machine), so I was not able to get through. I will try the other ones. Surely I will be able to get a hold of someone to get to the root of it all. Just out of curiosity, what did you send to UPS/FedEx as part of the permit application? Was it just the import permit application and the international money order? That was all I included, there was no copy of any rabies certificate enclosed as my understanding is, this is something required at the time of import itself and not before then. Anyway, I am not sure what happened exactly but if I do not hear back by the end of September, I guess I will just re do the whole application again. I am not planning to go to the Bahamas until the end of December, so thankfully I did this early!
Lynle Go says
Update: So it was the fax number I entered that was incorrect. I got in touch with the Bahamas Government using the first phone number on that list you provided. Within a few hours it was sorted out. They did receive my application but couldn’t send it because of the incorrect fax number. I spoke to someone named Sonia Cartwright. She got to work on this issue right away and faxed the import permit same day. She was fantastic! So I am all set! Thank you for your help! If I didn’t get the permit on time I was going to cancel my vacation to the Bahamas. My dog goes wherever I can take her!
Gene Magee says
Great detail; however, I saw a requirement to visit a vet in the Bahamas. (Your pet will need to visit a licensed veterinarian in the Bahamas for an examination within 48 hours of arrival.) It seems to be ignored or a misread requirement. Can anyone clarify?
Lynle Go says
I’ve been to the Bahamas with my yellow labrador to Andros Island in 2015 and nobody asked me to have my dog examined by a Bahamian vet. I flew in from Ft. Lauderdale so I had a vet from Lauderdale examine her and issue the vet certificate (which was done 24 hrs prior to our arrival). I think that stipulation is imposed if you had brought in a sickly looking pet. If your pet has any visible sores or appears to be unhealthy then you might be asked to do that. I was in Andros Island for a week, and there were no problems. There wasn’t even a vet clinic on the island, I was told!
Hope this helps!
Carolyn Shearlock says
The exact text of that section says: “The animal must be accompanied by a Veterinary Health Certificate presented within 48 hours of arrival in the Commonwealth of The Bahamas to a licensed veterinarian for an examination.” That is the requirement that the examination you have in the US (or Canada) be within 48 hours of your arrival in the Bahamas, not a requirement of an exam within 48 hours after arrival. I know, the wording isn’t great. And the Bahamas authorities realize that 48 hours isn’t realistic when you are traveling on a boat and have to wait for a weather window. Our certificaate was dated 7 days before our arrival and was not a problem.
Angela Coleby says
I am currently in the process of moving to Nassau with my mini zoo and this information is just fantastic and so helpful. Thank you so much for making everything so clear.
Jan Beagle says
Carolyn, thanks for all the good information about getting a pet permit. For those who might be waiting, I just called the Dept of Agriculture. I used the number 1-242-325-7413 and got right through to the pet permit section. I had sent the information required and money order by FedEx from Florida on August 31 and it arrived at the pet permit office the next day. I paid for the fax, but 15 days later I haven’t gotten the fax or the stamped form from them so I called. They quickly found my application and said they had mailed me the stamped form, but their fax machine is “out” – obviously for at least two weeks. The woman promised to fax it on Monday if the machine is fixed, and told me I should be getting it in the mail soon. So, I advise anyone who needs a pet permit in the next month or two to send it now. Last year I followed this same procedure and got the fax and the mailed form back much quicker.
Carolyn Shearlock says
I sent for the permit last week (UPS) and got it faxed back yesterday, so I think the fax machine is up and working again.
Rose says
Just called and the fax machine is still down.
Carolyn Shearlock says
I got mine faxed back yesterday, so I think it’s working again!
Rose says
Yes I just called a couple of days ago and confirmed that it was in working order.
John says
Here’s another success story, thanks for the article!
– Sent form+money order via UPS on Thursday
– Delivered to them on Friday
– Phone rang at 10:55am Tuesday (today) with the permit fax from them!
Cheers!
Monique Raby says
I just began the process today. For the money orders – seems like the US Post Offic is the only people who know what an international money order is. They charge $4.75 per money order. After speaking with the Bahamas Dept. Of Agriculture the charge per dog is $10.75 and one additional $5 fee if you want form faxed to you. In Marathon Fl, UPS charge is approximately $56 and Fed Ex is $53 for overnight delivery. Now I will wait and see how long it takes…..
Vanita Fowden says
Just an update as of Jan 2017. Your advice was right on. Followed your great instructions and sent FedEx from Cheyenne, WY for $50 right before the new year. Permit arrived via my free eFax account on January 5, 2017. Thanks for making the process so worry-free.
Brittany Mcmanus says
Richard Scott Howerton this answers our questions about taking the girls with us to the Bahamas
Richard Scott Howerton says
Perfect save the link for later this year ⛵?
Beth says
So if we are planning to go to the Exumas by way of Bimini first, we should be Exumas down as our destination? Do they check the paperwork at every Island or only once?
Carolyn Shearlock says
We were told to put the furthest possible place we’d go . . . but no one ever checked the paperwork outside of our initial checkin (they do have the right to, of course). The paperwork is designed for those flying in and out and the local officials realize that it doesn’t really work for boaters.
Denise Labrie says
Thank you so much, it seemed so complicated, I was thinking about leaving my dog home…. Now it is clear!
Susan Parker says
We’ve been cruising the Bahamas for many years and I’ve never had trouble receiving our pet permits using regular mail. It takes about six weeks. This year, I mailed the forms and an international money order on January 3 and received my approved permits today, February 10.
Jill Schulte says
Hi, thanks for the informative site, what vaccines are required in 2017? I thought only rabies from reading on agricultural site. He has all his routine vaccines, may need to make other plans if there is a new vaccine needed..
So after reading there is a new mailing address and a fee increase?
We also will be boating over in March from Fort Meyers Beach and cutting through Marathon. How long was the journey to Bimini aside from weather conditions?
Carolyn Shearlock says
The form I received back from the Bahamas Ag Dept in October 2016 is the one they’ve been using for several years, requiring a Rabies certificate and also shots for distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, leptospirosis, Adenovirus and Coronavirus . . . also that the dog be free of external parasites. Fee is $10 plus $0.75 tax, and then the $5 fee if you want it faxed back. And yes, the new address listed in the article.
We went from Marathon to Angelfish Creek (it can be done in a day but it’s a long day) and waited for weather. From there, it was about 9 hours to Bimini on a “no wind” day where we motored.
Jill Schulte says
Thanks for the feedback, yes the site does not specify all those vaccines.
I will be mailing my documents today.
Thanks again
Jill
Fergus Dunipace says
Great blog thank you. We are heading North from BVI’s and have imported our dog into the Caribbean Islands successfully so far.
The Bahamas is the next one to tackle so this is perfect.
Two Drifters
Donna Gordon says
Thank you for this article. We are just starting the process of moving to the USVI via boat with our 2 dogs. How was the process in Turks & Caicos and the DR if you have been down that far? Similarities, differences in bureaucracy and experience?
Carolyn Shearlock says
We have not yet been to those countries. Hoping to though.
Donna Gordon says
Thanks. I Googled them and they are similar to the Bahamas however T&C requires the Microchip and the titer.
Gerd Wengler says
I sent a US$ money order from Canada to Nassau (new address) by snail mail early January. Got the fax back yesterday about 3 1/2 months later. I had called and talked to a nice and helpful person mid-February, about 6 weeks after sending it, and it had not arrived then. So, snail mail is very, very slow.
Carolyn Shearlock says
That’s what I’ve heard from several people and why we paid the extra to overnight it. I hate how expensive it is!
Jonathan says
Hi Carolyn! Thanks for info! Last Friday (3/17/17) I sent app with $15.75 international mail order via FedEx to address you indicated and received faxed permit on Tuesday (3/21/17). Super fast! Thanks again!
Carolyn Shearlock says
Glad to be of help — and thanks for reported your results!
Fergus Dunipace says
Great Blog, but worth noting that the BVI’s no longer issue Money Orders for The Bahamas which is a bit of a pain.
Carolyn Shearlock says
Interesting. If you can get over to the USVI, go to the post office and they should be able to help you.
Lori Short says
Great information! I called the airport manager in Great Exuma, where we will be flying in to and was told that all I need is shot records. I am so scared that they will require something else when I get there. I am gonna just do everything stated here. Better safe than sorry! Quick question, can I send more then one pet permit application together in the same UPS mailing? I have two dogs that will be flying in with us.
Carolyn Shearlock says
Yes, you can put multiple applications in one envelope (I know people with multiple dogs, dogs and cats and even unrelated people on different boats who have sent them all in together).
Lori Short says
Thanks! Do you know if one money order will work or will there need to be separate ones for each application??
Carolyn Shearlock says
Just called friends with two dogs who got their permit last fall — they did it with a single money order and didn’t have a problem.
Tami Klassen says
I would like to clarify for my situation:
We will probably sail around the Keys before heading out. What we are thinking to do is to go ahead and get the Bahamian paperwork and then as we pause to wait for weather, get the vet cert.
Thoughts?
Carolyn Shearlock says
Yep, that’s fine. The import permit is good for one entry any time up to a year after the date the permit was issued (it states this on the permit). Last year, we got the permit in December but didn’t go until May. No problem.
Tami Klassen says
Thanks!
Fe says
Thank you!!!
Dawn Read says
Thank you.
Mathew Estes says
good info as always. thanks
Jonnie Combs says
We traveled to the Bahamas this past January. While in Titusville we inquired about getting the required exams and paperwork done. I phoned several vets and was told “We don’t do it. You have to have a USDA certified vet.” In all of our planning and research about taking a dog to the Bahamas we had not heard anything about this requirement. After several more calls and referrals we were able to find two offices with USDA certified vets, one of which was closed. We were finally able to get our paperwork done in Melbourne and were very pleased with the courteous and thorough service.
Carolyn Shearlock says
I’ve never heard that, so thanks (it may be that our vet in Marathon is USDA certified — there are two here and both do the certificates).
Ann SeCheverell says
I find it interesting that you have to have a permit for the animals if they’re never leaving the boat. We have cats and will be vacationing through the winters on our boat come this November. My understanding was as long as the animals never left the boat that is considered us property. And just having a vaccine certificate was okay. Is this only in Bimini For this kind of thing or is it other places also do you know?
The Boat Galley says
Theoretically, you need it anywhere in the Bahamas. I know of one boat this past winter that didn’t check cats in, then had problems when they had to fly back to the US due to health problems. I’m not sure how they finally resolved it.
Ann SeCheverell says
Don’t want you to think I am just a cheap ass, but at this point we still have 6 cats! I work for a vet, that would be EXTREMELY expensive just the mailing to do for each cat. Maybe we will just stay away from there for the first year and see how it goes.
The Boat Galley says
You don’t have to mail them all separately — they can all go in one envelope. Just in case you do decide to go!
Ann SeCheverell says
Okay well that makes a difference I thought they had to be mailed separately thank you for the clarification I appreciate it
Carolyn Shearlock says
Friends with multiple dogs have done one form per pet, but yes, you can mail them together. And you have the correct address.
Tammy Lassere says
We will be traveling by boat to the Bahamas and then flying back and forth with our dog. We have done this previously with no issues a few years ago, but read something somewhere about needing a vet exam to exit the Bahamas? Have you heard anything about this? Thank you for all of the great consolidated info!
Carolyn Shearlock says
I saw a note a while back that they were going to require it because of a disease (I think Lepto), but I do not know anyone who has encountered it in practice.
Tammy Lassere says
Thank you! One more question – do you know if I need a new permit for every time we enter the Bahamas? As I mentioned, we will be leaving our boat there and traveling back and forth by plane.
Carolyn Shearlock says
Each time, it’s good for one entry — or so it says on the permit we got.
Kristin Reid says
I leave for Nassau by plane on Saturday and I have had absolutely no luck finding a vet who still administers a vaccine for Corona Virus. Can anyone offer advice or experience regarding this issue? I’m told most vets don’t offer it anymore, but not at all in my state. One vet suggested that my vet explain this in the comments area of the health certificate, but I’m afraid the USDA office will not certify the health certificate if the requested vaccine isn’t given. Any help that can be given is very much appreciated. She’s my service dog so I can’t go without her and I’m going for medical care so I must go. I’ve been so stressed about this for so long!!
Carolyn Shearlock says
I don’t know where you are located, but vets that are used to doing international health certificates don’t seem to have a problem giving the vaccine. We’ve had it done in both rural Illinois and in the Florida Keys. Perhaps try a larger city or veterinary clinic associated with a university?
Maria says
Did you ever resolve this issue? No vets in my area offer the Coronavirus vaccine either. Did you enter the Bahamas anyways?
Carolyn Shearlock says
Vets around here will sign that the dog has the appropriate vaccination (which, in their opinion, is “none”). I talked to a vet at the boat show and she said that the accepted wisdom is that the vaccine is not effective and so they won’t use it, but will sign anyway. You’ll simply have to check with your vet and see how they handle it.
Kelly Carter says
Just went to the post office–they said they “don’t do International Money Orders.”
Hmm…Any other suggestions?
Carolyn Shearlock says
They do. https://www.usps.com/international/money-transfers.htm
Either go to a different post office, or ask to talk to the supervisor.
Debbie Cavanaugh says
I know everyone has said to get an international money order from the post office. Has anyone just sent a money order from a bank?(Chase)????
Debbie Cavanaugh says
Just priced an international money order from the us post office and it went up to $8.25
Also just stopped at fed ex and the cost from fort Lauderdale is $55.91. Also stopped at the ups store and they ship via DHl and was quoted $42.72. Just thought I would update for you.
Permit will go via DHL tomorrow.
Erin says
We’ll be completing a permit for our dog; are you aware of whether or not we would need to fill out a permit for our cat who would stay aboard? He would never be on land.
Thanks!
Carolyn Shearlock says
I’d strongly suggest it. You may be boarded for an inspection at some point (rare, but possible) but the bigger problem is if you should have to fly out due to a medical problem, family emergency or boat problem. I’ve heard of several people who did not get an import permit for a cat, then had all sorts of problems when they had to fly out due to medical or family emergencies. You can put both forms in the same envelope, so doing the second one at least won’t cost the very high UPS/FedEx fee.
Jennifer Thompson says
I just read the words “all conditions… must be satisfied or the animal may be… disposed of as a disease risk.” on the Bahamas website and now I’m an absolute nervous wreck wishing I had never planned this trip. I’m desperately hoping someone can offer clarification on two points.
1) As I understand it, I will need my USDA certified vet to complete an International Health Certificate in order for me to re-enter the United States – but the Bahamas does NOT require that the Health Certificate be endorsed by the USDA. Is that accurate?
2) Does anyone have any updated information on whether it is necessary to visit a veterinarian in the Bahamas?
It looks like the language in the permit application has changed slightly since the last time this was discussed in the comments, but it still isn’t very clear:
“animal(s) must be presented to a Licensed Veterinarian for examination -within forty-eight (48) hours of arrival in the Commonwealth of The Bahamas.”
I found another website claiming that, as of 2014, “all dogs leaving the Bahamas must now be accompanied by a health certificate prepared by a Bahamian veterinarian and approved by a Ministry of Agriculture vet”. However, that website indicated those requirements were temporary as a result of a distemper outbreak.
(I am arriving and departing by the balearia fast ferry if that makes any difference)
Carolyn Shearlock says
First off, I have never heard of anyone having a pet confiscated in the Bahamas or upon return to the US.
I have NOT taken the ferry, only traveled by our own boat. Our papers were given a cursory glance when we arrived in the Bahamas and not even asked for upon arrival back in the US. Traveling by ferry, your experience may be different.
I do not know of anyone who has had to visit a vet in the Bahamas — in fact, many of the ports of entry do not even have a vet. It has always been understood that the 48-hour requirement was prior to entry, not after arriving in the Bahamas.
I hope that someone who has traveled by ferry may be able to share their experience.
Kristin Reid says
You’re correct. You must have a USDA certified vet sign the sworn statement but you are not required to go to the USDA office to have them approve any paperwork. I flew to Nassau and we had to have a vet come examine my dog within 48 hours of landing. The USA requires a health certificate and proof of examination by a vet before leaving the Bahamas if you are there longer than a few days (I believe the cutoff is six days but the paperwork and website says so somewhere). That is why you need the examination within 48 hours of arrival in the Bahamas. The Bahamian vet who examines the dog to issue the health certificate for reentry into the USA before you leave the Bahamas has to prove that the dog was examined within 48 hours of arrival when they take your paperwork (the examination receipt, original health certificate, import permit, and sworn statement by a USDA vet) to the Bahamas department of agriculture to get all of it approved for your departure. However, I found a mobile vet that came to my hotel in Nassau the day after I arrived at about 5 or 6 pm and then he came back 5 days before I left to do her departing examination, and make a new health certificate for us to get her back to the USA. I flew out on a Saturday, and he came to see her on Tuesday before we left, and took all of her paperwork to the Bahamian Dept Of Agricultural for approval and brought it back to me at my hotel before we left. He was not expensive considering the effort he put into helping me. He also flies to another Bahamas island periodically where he takes care of the pets for the entire American community there. His name is Dr Dwight Dorsett and he’s at the Nassau Pet Clinic. His mobile number is 242-427-5810 and the clinic number is 242-322-4209. I think it’s better to call his mobile to arrange for him to come to you. This is a great option for boaters too. It’s the US authorities who want paperwork for bringing the dog back home and the Bahamian govt wants them examined when they enter to be sure they aren’t bringing distemper or rabies in. I wouldn’t risk not doing either because both governments can and might seize the dog if they decide to check and you don’t have the paperwork. I would much rather be safe than sorry when it comes to my fur baby. When I flew out of Nasssu there were US authorities that questioned me and scoured my dog’s paperwork before we boarded the flight and the US customs agents pulled me in for a special bag scan and interview after I landed in Houston. I’ve never experienced anything like that, nor has anyone I know, but it happened to me.
Carolyn Shearlock says
Thanks for all the good info Kristin. I wondered if it would be different when traveling by a commercial carrier. And yes, it is!
Jennifer Thompson says
Oh wow. Thanks for all the input! Glad that my interpretation of the USDA endorsement was correct at least. Sounds like its better to be safe than sorry and visit a vet within the first 48 hours in the Bahamas though,
As for the departing exam, you mention a cutoff of around six days. I assume you mean this is some sort of a time frame imposed by the US gov? Because I definitely did not see anything about that in any of the Bahamas information. The International Health Certificate is valid for 30 days from issuance, Could that be the deadline you are thinking of? We will only be in the Bahamas 9 days and our original Health Certificate will still be valid (I confirmed this with the USDA office) so I don’t think I will need to do a departing exam at least.
Oh – and in response to your follow up comment, I already have the permit from the Bahamian permit and form 1B ready to be completed thanks to all Carolyn’s great info! 🙂
Jennifer Thompson says
(sorry for all the typos in there – no edit option oops)
Jennifer Thompson says
I found this site so helpful that I thought I would post an update in case someone else planning on taking the ferry stumbles across my post.
Everything went smoothly with the pet paperwork.
The ferry on the other hand, was an absolute nightmare. The whole point of this trip was that we wanted to bring our dog on a vacation and NOT subject her to the trauma and dangers of flying. I can’t imagine that flying would have been any more traumatic for her than the ferry was.
Information provided by Balearia’s website and customer service agents during my research did NOT match up with our experiences during travel.
1) We were told we would be able to stay outside the kennels during the crossing so our dog would not be left alone. In reality they lock the doors to the deck when the crossing is rough (which is often) so we were forced to leave her alone and terrified.
2) The website says that large dogs travel in kennels provided on the ship and that “While on board, out of the kennels, dogs must be restrained by a harness and leash”. However, when we arrived we were told our dog was supposed to be in a crate. They told us we were “lucky” that they had one we could use because otherwise we would have had to go buy one (which of course would have caused us to miss the boat). The process of transporting a cage the size of a small shed through the ship just to transfer her to the on board kennel was ridiculous and then when we arrived in Freeport they acted like they were undecided whether they would allow us to disembark at all since we didn’t have a crate. In the end they simply let us walk her off. I spent the entire 9 days worried they wouldn’t let us board the ship on the way home and could not get an email response from any customer service agents. On the day of departure no one said a word about needing a crate. It seems like none of the staff have a clue WHAT the pet policy is.
Our dog had a great time on the beach though 😀
Lynle Go says
We just came back from the Exumas with our 60 lb dog travelling from Toronto to Ft Lauderdale to the Exumas. I think you would have been better off taking a public charter with Watermakers Air which is a pet friendly airline. We’ve been going to the Bahamas for the last three years and have never had any issues with customs. I just make sure I have my import permit and the vet health certificate issued in Ft Lauderdale one day before we fly across. We’ve never been asked to visit the vet in the Bahamas within 48 hrs of arrival to the island. Maybe going to the outer islands is less stressful amd cumbersome. There are a few airbnb places too that you can stay in that are pet friendly. We stayed in a cottage just steps away from one of the most beautiful public beaches in the Bahamas….Tropic of Cancer beach. The best part was, we were usually the only ones at the beach. Our dog loved it too! We hope to be back there again next year!
Kristin Reid says
Just to clarify, you need more than a health certificate. You need your permit from the Bahamian Dept of Agriculture, an international health certificate, and the Bahamian form imp 1B where your USDA vet signs to certify that the animal is free of disease and has been immunized against all the diseases they request vaccines against. Then you should always carry a copy of your dog’s rabies certificate, and records of their vaccinations from the vet. It also doesn’t hurt to have a fecal test done to prove they don’t have parasites and carry the results in your paperwork. Then you can prove the dog was vaccinated with what, when, and by who in case authorities of either government should attempt to raise issues.
Andrew Lee says
Hi Kristin,
Where can I find this Form 1B? I’m flying into Nassau from NYC, so I probably need this form, correct? Thank you!
Carolyn Shearlock says
It’s the “import permit” that you get back from the Bahamas when you send the application in. Then you take it to your vet and have it signed. If you’re flying, it will have to be within 48 hours before your flight.
Andrew Lee says
Ah perfect. Thanks, Carolyn, for your quick reply! I will be starting this process by sending it via Fedex on Monday. Already have the International Money Order for $15.75 (USPS fee for international money order was $8.55!!! – kinda steep for a $15.75 check) – this is as of 2/2/2018.
Erin says
We sent off our international money order (1 totaling $45 for all 3 pets) and permit applications on Tuesday afternoon. We have already received the permits back…by Friday evening. We went through UPS and had the permits faxed to the UPS store. We did use the new address (I found it by googling “Bahamas Department of Agriculture”). Everything went smoothly…thank you for all of the good information!
Kelly Calvert says
Carolyn, another thank you for such a detailed helpful article. I have two questions:
1. You mention a restaurant dingy dock next door to Island Hammock Vet in Key Largo. I’m looking online and not finding that. Do you recall the name of the restaurant?
2. Can the money order be in U.S. dollars?
Carolyn Shearlock says
The info about the Island Hammock Pet Hospital was provided by someone else, but I see on the map that’s it right near Catamaran Boat Yard — I’d call them at (305) 852-2025 and ask if you could tie up there for a hour or so or did they know of somewhere closer where you could tie up? We had a survey done there and they were very helpful then.
And yes, US dollars are fine, just be sure it’s an INTERNATIONAL money order. (Exchange rate is $1US = $1Bahamian)
Dawn Wheeler says
Quick question, if we are traveling with a cat that will never be getting off the boat, do we still have to go through all of this nonsense? From the comments I read it seems like they just care about the money and many times don’t even look at the paperwork.
Carolyn Shearlock says
The problem comes if anything happens and you have to fly out of the Bahamas. The airports are much stricter, and it can pose real difficulties (delays, not just fines) if you don’t have the pet permit.
brett says
Will they mail you the form back or do they only fax it back. Im in no hurry and would rather get it back to me in the mail and not deal with setting up a fax account.
Carolyn Shearlock says
They will mail it back for no extra fee. Allow at least 8 weeks to get it (it may come faster, but allow AT LEAST that. Regular mail from the Bahamas can be slow.)
brett says
Thank you. Can you please verify the Gladstone and Munnings address is correct? my papers show PO BOX N-3704 Nassau.
Carolyn Shearlock says
Yes, Gladstone and Munnings is correct as stated in the article. The other one is old and the Bahamas simply have not updated their forms or their website.
Brett says
Thanks. Sent it off in the mail. FedEX was $58.17, was the cheapest price they had. Said it would be there tomorrow.
Anonymous says
Debbie Jackson
brett says
I still have no permit. I have emailed them at the address you listed. Is that still the proper email address because I have not even got an email response from them. Im probably going to have to call but I’m sure that will be a hassle.
renee sachasinh says
Hi,
I’ve been following you for a while. We Live in Puerto Rico and just bought a new boat thats being delivered in FLL December 15, 2018. We are going to leave it there a few months to get work on it. We will be going back and forth to the bahamas. Two weeks in bahamas then two weeks home to work. The permit says it is only good for one entry. Any suggestions on how to get around this? Or do I need to apply for multiple ones and use a different one each time?
Thanks for all your help,
renee
Carolyn Shearlock says
I think you’ll have to have one for each time. Hopefully you can get the vet to sign several at once.
Lori says
Probably not supposed to but I made extra copies of my faxed permit.I have gone in and out of the Bahamas five times using the same one with no problem. As long as you travel before the expiration date you should be good. They really don’t keep track of them and have always just looked at my paperwork and handed it right back to me. I had one customs guy at the Bimini airport stamp mine once. They basically want to see the rabies certificate, the permit and the vet check. I even get around having to take her to the vet every time by having my vet leave the date blank and just fill it in for the date I need. I may be cheating the system but it works and it’s a lot easier than dealing with everything over and over. I think it all boils down to the government wanting to make the money for the permit fee.
Brett says
UPDATE; I finally got the permit in the MAIL today, even though I included the extra 5$ to have it faxed. It was actually processed the day after they got it in the mail from me. Then it was sent out in the mail back to me a few days later on Feb 20. So it took that long to come in the mail. Not sure why they did not fax it, but either way make sure you leave plenty of time to spare in case this happens to you.
Shauna says
Just wanted to say thank you for posting all the info and the easy guide. Much appreciated! I am off to the post office to get my money order.
Safe and Happy Travels!
Shauna
Elias says
The Government has recently updated their address for the department of agriculture:
Department of Agriculture
Darville‘s Business Complex
Gladstone and Munnings Roads
P.O. Box N3028
Nassau, New Providence
The Bahamas
Carolyn Shearlock says
YAY! Finally . . .
Paulina says
Hi, do you know if this new address is for sure? The PO box part? Last June i sent it to the original address you listed. And now i have to send for permitting again, but not sure if to use the address we’ve been using all along or the new one the reader posted. Help please.
Carolyn Shearlock says
Don’t use a PO Box if you are using an overnight delivery service such as DHL, FedEx or UPS. Use the one you used last spring.
Paulina says
Thank so much! Very helpful! Will FedEx asap. 🙂
Denise says
Going to be traveling to the Bahamas from Florida in September 2018 with a service dog – although we will be doing this via cruise ship, not by personal boat. I want to make sure i understand the process correctly: FedEx or UPS the application and the appropriate fee payable by International money order in US dollars. The Dept of Ag will process and send back the vet form and the permit via fax or mail. Close to time of departure, see vet and have them fill out the vet form and administer necessary vaccines and get fecal test. Bring multiple copies of rabies certificate, completed health form and Bahamas permit onto the cruise ship to be shown at check in, as well as in each Bahamian port visited. Nothing else gets mailed to the Bahamas except the application and $$, correct? The signed health certificate never goes back to them?
Carolyn Shearlock says
The signed form will be either taken or stamped at the first port in the Bahamas. You do not have to send it to them. Since you are traveling by cruise ship, get the vet appointment within 48 hours of your departure from Florida (they’re more relaxed with people traveling by personal boat). I don’t know how cruise ships handle the checkin, but on private boats you only do all the paperwork when you first enter the country and not at every port. You might want one extra copy of the papers, but I don’t think you need many.
Denise says
Just a quick update to say I followed your steps exactly and mailed the application on Tuesday, via UPS, for $60.14 (FedEx was about the same price). International money order fee from the post office was $8.40, in addition to the $15.75. The application was delivered yesterday to them, and I have my faxed permit and health certificate in hand TODAY! Easy Peasy! Thank you so much for these step by step instructions!
Elizabeth says
We’re planning to go on a cruise that goes from NYC to Florida and then to the Bahamas (Nassau) with our service dog. Would love to know how it went when you disembarked the cruise with your dog at the Bahamas. What documents did they ask for and how was the process? And upon arrival back into the US, what did they require for the service dog to be allowed back into the US?
Thank you in advance!
Denise says
Elizabeth – Ibwould be happy to report back to you after our cruise to let you know about this process! We travel from Sept 17-21st.
Dawn Hitsman says
I will be traveling via cruise with my service dog in Oct. I called the CDC here in the States to find out what is required for her to come back into the States and you need a health cert from vet plus shot records showing all of the shots. Basically the same as go to the Bahama’s including the shots. https://www.cdc.gov/importation/bringing-an-animal-into-the-united-states/dogs.html
I hope this helps.
Elizabeth says
HI Denise! I am planning to go on a cruise with my service dog in November and one of the ports on the trip is the Bahamas. I was wondering if you could share what the disembark process with your service dog was like at the Bahamas port and what did they ask for. Also, was there any requirements upon arrival back into the US in order for the dog to be allowed back on to US soil?
Any information you could share would be greatly appreciated! Thank you in advance!
Denise says
Elizabeth,
Our cruise went smoothly. We left out of Port Canaveral, FL and checked into the port with the Bahamas permit, the Vets certification letter and proof of rabies shot (the vet form is the certifications for other vaccinations and flea/tick/heartworm prevention). Once onboard we were directed immediately to Guest Services to provide all this same paperwork again. We took 10 copies of everything, plus our originals. At Nassau, we again had to show our papers to disembark, and again, to re-board the ship. No issues whatsoever. Getting off at Castaway Cay, which is Disney’s private island in the Bahamas, we did not have to show anything to get on or off. Returning to Port Canaveral and coming through Customs, again, we were not required to show any paperwork for our service dog.
We are doing a 14 night Panama Canal Cruise in Nov 2019 which is requiring ALOT more planning, especially for Grand Cayman., where the process is very detailed. Mexico and Colombia just require simple permits like the Bahamas, so they will not be difficult.
Best of luck for an enjoyable cruise!
Erin says
Do you happen to have any information or know of a policy for returning to the US from the Bahamas with pets? Thank you!
Carolyn Shearlock says
They’ve never asked us when returning by boat.
Katie Laing says
Not sure if my previous message went through.
I spoke with the Dept. Of Agriculture today (8/13/18) and they said to send an international money order in the amount of $16.20 to
Director of Agriculture
Dept. Of Agriculture
Gladstone and Munnings Roads
Nassau, Bahamas
Thank you for you very helpful posts!!!
Carolyn Shearlock says
Thanks! The amount is a little higher than they’ve said in the past — the tax rate went up this summer. I’ll update it in the post.
SV Felicidad CT-42 Mermaid Ketch says
New Pet Import Application Information:
Instructions:
1. Applicant completes and submits Application to Import Domestic Animal Form.
2. Applicant pays the relevant fees.
3. After approval, the applicant is issued with the Dog Permit.
4. The applicant will be given a Veterinarian Form (AGR/VS/1A Form) which must be completed by a registered Veterinarian 24 hours prior to travel.
5. Applicant submits the Dog Permit and Completed Veterinarian Form to an Agricultural Officer and Customs Officer at the port of entry or departure.
Fee:
BS$10.00 processing fee
BS$5.00 faxing fee.
Carolyn Shearlock says
The procedure hasn’t really changed (although the VAT has), but the site links have. I’ve changed them in the article above. Thanks so much!
Dawn Hitsman says
I do know if you are traveling with a service dog it is different. I have one too that will be going if all goes as planned to the Bahama’s. I just set out her permit application with doctor’s not and her picture id that is required for a service dog to obtain a permit for them. This will be her first cruise too. In to Hawaii to cruise it is different also for a service dog. They get cleared within a couple of hours vs the long 5 day. Yes when traveling to other destinations it is easier to call the Department of Ag to see what is needed.
Denise says
We are traveling to the Bahamas in a little less than a week in Disney Cruise Line. We’ve had our permit for awhile (requires nothing but the application and paying the fee for the permit). Disney’s Soecial Service’s Department has us gettin the exam 7 days ahead of time and faxing it to th.em. The vet fills out all info like microchip, rabies info, heartworm preventions etc…. and signs. They recommend carryover no a copy to hand over at the port when you check in, one for every port stop (we have 2 Bahamas stops), one when you disembark, and an extra copy for ourselves. We also will carry a flash drive with ALL our service dogs oaerwork, just in case we need to provide/print it for any reason.
Next November we are doing a Panama Canal Cruise and paperwork and documentation is much more rigorous for some of those ports (ie: Grand Cayman).
Dawn says
How was your port with your service dog and returning back to the States?
Dawn Hitsman says
Elizabeth what cruise ship will you be on in Nov. We will be leaving the Thursday before Thanksgiving on Liberty out of Port Canaveral. I will be traveling with my service dog to.
Debra Morgan says
To be clear… the proof of rabies and other vaccinations need to be shown to the local vet when doing the pre-departure check up, not to be sent to the Bahamas with the application, right??
Carolyn Shearlock says
Yes, and always keep proof of them on the boat with you — not just in the Bahamas, but anywhere.
Dawn says
We are traveling next month on Carnival. I received her permit this week. We are all set just have to get a couple of shots that our vet don’t give. Then we will be ready. Our vet is doing her health cert for going and coming back. I know it is different for other countries. I won’t never put her through all of that. Too much running back and forth from Orlando to Gainesville to the USDA vet. But then again we just go to the Bahama’s about 3-4 times a year after school starts and it is cooler.
Wellington says
This is a really informative guide and the number of comments are astounding! However, there are some things people should be aware of. I hate to see when a problem comes up during entry. It is stressful for everyone including the pets.
1. There are breed restrictions in place now:
These dog breeds (including mixes of them) include:
– Pit Bull
– Presa Canario
– Cane Corso
– American Bully
– Staffordshire Terrier
– Dogo Argentino
Cat breeds are:
Savannah Cat
Bengal Cat
Chausie
2. I would not trust the Atlantis website to always have the latest form. The form you have linked to on their site is outdated.
3. The requirements form has been updated as well.
I have both of the new forms on my website
https://www.bahamaspetpermit.com/bahamas-pet-import-application/
They are available from the Department of Agriculture as well
the link to their page is very long so I have shortened it https://bit.ly/2yAfUsl
Pamela Webster says
For Carolyn: Thanks for the updated information. We’ve updated the post as well as adding the requirement that pets be microchipped.
Wellington says
Thank you for updating it! It would be great if you linked to the page instead of the PDF because if I update the PDFs those links may break. Same with the Department of Agriculture site – many times the old forms are still available, but when you look at the site it shows you a link to a new form.
I would also really appreciate a mention that I provide this service if you would be so kind. As far as I know I am the only one doing it and the process for my customers is much easier than having to hassle with dealing with it all on your own.
Thank you.
Wellington
Danie says
Hello Carolyn,
I would like to start off by saying that your website is always my first “go to” for everything cruiser related. Thank you for taking the time to share all your insight with the cruising community; it can certainly make life simpler! That being said, we are bringing our 2 Labradors to the Bahamas, and I was reading your post (which provided all the info I needed and more!). When I saw that you mentioned the service that Wellington offered, I thought I would give it a try. Since it was because of your post that I decided to try his services, I thought that I would take the time to give you my insight on Bahamas Pet Import Permits.
Wellington makes the process to import pets in the Bahamas stress free, and very easy. With his friendly service, it took us less than a week from the time we sent him our documents to the time we received our permits. We are very pleased (and impressed!) and would highly recommend Bahamas Pet Import Permits!
I hope this insight helps :).
Once again, thank you for sharing all the info on your website!
Fair Winds!
Carolyn Shearlock says
Thanks so much! And I literally just had another cruiser stop by my boat to tell they’d also used him with great results. Love it when there is an easy way to do something that works well and supports the Bahamians!
Sharon Ellens says
I agree with Danie — Wellington Saunder’s Bahamas Pet Permit service is AWESOME! Thank you so much for mentioning him (I MAY have neglected to take into account the holidays and was starting to panic that I wouldn’t get our permit in time!) Wellington was very responsive and helpful, following up multiple times with the Ag department about their anticipated process times. Plus it was so easy! Everything electronic, no fax or money order needed. And very reasonable cost.
Rena Blades says
I really appreciate your detailed information on this topic and could not have moved aboard with our two dogs without this information as well as all the other helpful tips on having pets on a boat. I’ve gotten Bahamas pet permits two ways – once using the process you outline and it worked great, and once (this week) using Wellington Saunders, who you describe in the blog. I am so grateful you mention him and gave a link to his service. I will never do it again without Mr. Saunders’ help. It was easy, fast and thorough. I highly recommend him.
Jen Simpson says
First Thank you for your blog post. It helped me the first time I obtained a pet permit.
Previously, when I obtained the pet permit to bring the dog in from the US to the Bahamas. I fedex’d the forms along with an international money order for $16.20 (this is the $11.20 for the permit plus the $5 charge for them to fax it to you. Once I saw the department of Agriculture received the paper work, I kept calling to make sure they were processing it. I got it in 7 days.
Thanks to you again- This time I used Bahama’s Pet Permit and I uploaded the forms, sent payment via paypal, I got the permit in 4days! The cost alone was less than overnighting the paper work to the Bahamas. Plus Wellington has all the current forms on his website. https://www.bahamaspetpermit.com. I too am very grateful to learn about this service on your website. Thanks again
Judy Madill says
We are new owners of Moody 34 and are liveaboards since 3/31/2019. We have a dog and can’t wait to start cruising. I have been reading about pet permits required for import to different countries. When it is time I plan on using Mr Saunders services, it seems to be the smart way to go.
I would like to know if anyone has gone to the Cayman Islands with their pet, also where can you get a rabies titer? I saw that it showed that the Bahamas also required rabies titer, but not listed on the Health certificate , is this required?
Thank you for all the information to make cruising easier with oets.
Denise says
Judy,
I can only speak of experience with cruising with a service dog, not general boat travel into other countries. Grand Cayman has some of the strictest guidelines. Your dog must have the endorsed APHIS 7001 form (from USDA office) within 10 days of entering Cayman waters. Your dog must be microchipped, and have a rabies vaccine AFTER microchip placement. The rabies titer must be done within 6-12 months of your travel, but no sooner than one month prior. There is a small list of acceptable labs for the titer. If you are in the US, The University of Kansas is an acceptable lab. Your dog must have flea and tick prevention (NOT a collar) and also receive a Prazaquantil containing regimen for worm prevention (Intercept Plus contains this) at the time of the vet clearance. For all of these reasons, we choose not to disembark in Grand Cayman – too expensive to do everything to come in. Also, if you have been in Mexico within 10 days of arriving in Grand Cayman, you cannot enter with your dog anyway.
The Bahamas require the import permit and proof of rabies vaccine. They don’t require a titer – the vaccine form, with the lot number from your vet will suffice.
Hope this helps!
Denise
Judy Madill says
Mingo had her microchip done tne same day as her 3 year Rabie vaccine, that still qualifies?
Carolyn Shearlock says
That is fine for the Bahamas. The form I have doesn’t even ask for date of microchip, just the number.
Dawn Hitsman says
For the Bahama’s they only ask for the microchip number. Plus the form the vet has to fill out the vet will put the chip number on it and on the International Health Cert. The vet will verify that the chip is still working cause they have to sign saying that is working and that all shots are up to date. I hope this helps.
Judy Madill says
Yes, Thank You
Diane Roberts says
My wife and I used Wellington Saunders’ bahamaspetpermit.com for the first time this year after we read about the fairly involved and time-consuming process of managing it ourselves. Wellington responded to my emails promptly and I had the permit in one week. A very smooth and easy process – not to mention less expensive than doing it yourself with courier costs added! I highly recommend Wellington and will use his service every season.
Kevin and Diane R
Gerd Wengler says
Just got my permit through Wellington Saunders’ bahamaspetpermit.com. I received the permit exactly seven days later. The process is as smooth as one can imagine. I really do reccomend this service. Wellington is a fine and trustworthy gentleman. The commmunication was perfect – he informed at any step. It was also cheaper than the “normal” process with the cumbersome money order and courier fees, not even to mention that you’re not quite sure to ever hear back when you use regular mail. I will use Wellington always from now on.
Tami Klassen says
We just gat our cats checked for the permit by Dr Geoff Bailey of the Animal Care Clinic, Key Largo. The staff were efficient, the doc was quick and all understood the drill. $160 for two cats, very good price. Our new keys vet!!
Animal Care Clinic, Key Largo: 305-453-0054
Ella says
Hello Carolyn,
Where in the Marathon ? We are in Boot Key Harbor came here because I heard here is ok to get Health Certificate and now is to difficult to find anybody . marathon hospital asked 350 just to sign that !!? We have everything all shots and already signed Permit. There is no one else here . Can you recommend anybody ? Thanks in advance .
Carolyn Shearlock says
We always got Paz’s at Marathon Vetrinary Hospital, (305) 743-7099. The last time we got one was 2021, and the hospital has new owners since then so I don’t know their current prices but it was just over $100 in 2021. They’re within walking distance of BKH.
The other vet in town is Keys Animal Hospital, also known as “Dr. Dunn’s.” They are about 5 miles away, so you’ll need a cab (cabs generally allow pets, and are typically $7 anywhere on the island). I’ve never used them, but heard of many people who are happy with their services. (305) 743-6250
Cecilia says
Hello Carolyne,
I can’t find anywhere information on how to get back to the US with your pet after cruising the Bahamas, do you need to get a permit to exit the bahamas or to entry the US? Thank you for your help!
Carolyn Shearlock says
If you are returning by boat, you won’t need one at all. If you should have to fly back, you’ll need the one you already have at the Bahamas airport when you depart. The US will not require one — but I do always make sure I have proof of the rabies shot aboard just in case!