Health Certificates
Health Certificates are also called Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI) and they must be completed by a USDA accredited Veterinarian.
If you’re planning to travel with your pet, you may need to complete certain paperwork and/or tasks before you go. Meeting these requirements can take a while, so don’t delay!
What is a CVI?
A certificate of veterinary inspection, or CVI, is a form completed by a veterinarian accredited in the state of origin to verify that they have examined an animal prior to movement and attested that the animal is not showing clinical signs of infectious, contagious, or communicable disease and that the animal meets all movement/import requirements. It may also be referred to as a health certificate.
Where do I get a CVI?
Schedule an appointment with your local accredited veterinarian. We have several on our team.
Can any veterinarian complete a CVI?
The veterinarian must be licensed and accredited in the state where the animal is moving from. Accreditation is a credential granted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture that allows veterinarians to perform official regulatory work,
such as signing CVIs.
What information does the CVI contain?
• Consigner’s (owner or seller) name and physical address.
• Consignee’s (buyer or adopter) name and physical address.
• Animal description and/or identification number.
• Date vaccines administered and product name.
• Date and results of any required tests.
• Statement of health based on physical examination.
• Veterinarian’s signature, name and contact information.
• Any additional information required by the state or country of destination.
Can one CVI be used for movement of an animal to multiple places?
A CVI is only valid for movement from the origin address to the destination address written on the CVI. If traveling internationally, a separate CVI will likely be required for each country even if only passing through.
How long is the CVI valid after the veterinarian examines the animal?
A CVI is generally valid for 30 days after examination, and the veterinarian must complete the CVI within 10 days of examining an animal. Timing requirements may vary depending on the destination.
Can I complete the CVI and just have my veterinarian sign it?
No. The veterinarian is responsible for examining all animals on the CVI and ensuring the form is completed accurately. Failure to do so could compromise the veterinarian’s accreditation and license. In Minnesota, only accredited veterinarians have access to CVIs.
What tests and vaccinations are required to get a CVI?
All dogs, cats and ferrets three months of age and older require documentation of rabies vaccination administered by a licensed veterinarian in accordance with manufacturer recommendations prior to being moved to Minnesota. Each
state or country will have unique requirements for importation and requirements may change at any time. Contact the destination for the most up to date information.
What happens if I import an animal without a CVI?
Violation of import requirements are illegal. Failure to comply may result in fines, penalties, or deportation.
Where can I get more information?
We strongly recommend anyone looking to export/import an animal go to the USDA’s website for traveling with pets by CLICKING HERE and proceeding based on destination.
Process and Scheduling
Process can change based on destination and travel requirements.
Domestic/Interstate Travel
Includes travel to Canada & Mexico
EXCLUDES travel to Hawaii
Step 1: Go to USDA WEBSITE to verify requirements for traveling based on mode of transportation (airline, cruise, etc.) and destination.
Step 2: Complete a request for CVI by one of our accredited veterinarians by completing THIS FORM (or button above).
Step 3: An appointment will be scheduled within the appropriate timeframe for travel with a USDA accredited veterinarian. The appointment will be scheduled for 1 hour to ensure accuracy of exam, travel requirements, and final documentation. You will receive a copy of your CVI at the completion of this appointment.
Step 4: Bon voyage!!
International Travel
Includes travel to Hawaii
Step 1: Go to USDA WEBSITE to verify requirements for traveling based on mode of transportation (airline, cruise, etc.) and destination.
Step 2: Complete a request for CVI by one of our accredited veterinarians by completing THIS FORM (or button above).
Step 3: A travel consultation will be scheduled with a USDA accredited veterinarian for as soon as reasonably possible. This appointment is to discuss and review the completed form, outline all travel/destination requirements, and plan/schedule future appointment(s) as required for travel and certificate completion.
Step 4: Will vary depending on destination travel requirements. Some pets may need a microchip and vaccines on a specific schedule; others may need specific testing and/or treatments completed prior to travel. These appointments are typically schedule with technicians and do not require another exam/office call for completion. Requirements and schedule will be determined and discussed at first appointment.
Step 5: Final physical exam for veterinary inspection and completion of CVI documentation. Will review any/all final requirements then submit everything to USDA for endorsement. This appointment will be scheduled as far in advance before travel as schedules allows to ensure adequate time for endorsement by UDSA & return of completed CVI document(s).
Please note you will NOT receive a copy of the completed CVI right away. Endorsement by USDA can be slow. In our experience, endorsement is completed only 1-3 days prior to travel.
Step 6: Bon voyage!!
General Pricing
All prices are subject to change and may not reflect the most recent pricing.
USA, Mexico, & Canada Travel
You can expect to take a certificate with you at the conclusion of this appointment.
Exam, Consultation, & Certificate Completion – $145+
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- Health certificate inspection exam – $78
- Preparation & completion of CVI – $67
- Any other required/requested services, treatments, and/or medications will be an additional cost we can estimate for you at time of service.
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Hawaii & International Travel
Costs can vary substantially based on destination. Total cost can range from $550 to $2000 depending on destination requirements. We can provide a more specific cost estimate at/after consultation appointment. It is possible that a country we have not exported to yet may be easier than anticipated. In those circumstances we will adjust cost as appropriate.
First visit: Travel Consultation – $275+
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- Exam & consultation for travel per pet – $275
- Additional animals will receive a discount of 40% (only applies to this charge)
- Should decided at time of visit not to proceed with CVI process, cost will be reduced to $78 for the consultation.
- No discounts or refunds will be given after completion of this appointment
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Subsequent visits will vary greatly based on destination requirements. Common expenses we frequently see based on destination country include, but are not limited to:
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- Technician visit/office call per visit – $20
- ISO-Compliant Microchip – $55
- Rabies Vaccines/Boosters – $30 each
- Required to be administered by DVM; brief exam/office call – $45
- FAVN Rabies testing – $250 for each submission
- Identity confirmation: $120 per pet
- Other laboratory testing: varies greatly based on test and laboratory required
- Example: Leishmania infantum – IFAT – $220
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Final visit: Certificate Completion & Submission – $280 – $430+
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- Final exam/inspection of pet(s) – $78
- International CVI completion and submission – $202 each
- If an original ink endorsement is required by destination country; we MUST provide overnight shipping of certificate from USDA office to the owner in time for travel — cost is approximately $150 each
- Multiple certificates may not be shipped together
- This is what you will see on USDA’s website if overnight shipping is required:
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If you have questions prior to your appointment, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Email: info@stewartvillevetmn.com
Phone: 507-533-4225
