Live Animals

APHIS requires a veterinary health certificate from the exporting country's competent authority, an import permit issued in advance, and in many cases a period of quarantine at an APHIS-approved facility. Requirements vary by species, country of origin, and disease status of the source region.

Several headings, such as those for bovines and swine, separate purebred breeding stock from other animals at the 4-digit or 6-digit level. Purebred breeders often carry a lower duty rate, but the importer must document pedigree registration to claim that classification.