Exotic pets include birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and some species of mammals that may be protected by domestic and international laws and agreements.
On February 12, 2025, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) released two fully digitized permit applications that benefit people traveling abroad with their exotic pet. Digitization means that exotic pet owners can now apply and pay online, without the need to download and then re-upload parts of the application. This makes traveling abroad with an exotic pet easier and more efficient.
The first digitized permit type allows applicants to relocate internationally with their exotic pet (3-200-46: Import/Export/Re-Export of Personal Pets under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) and/or the Wild Bird Conservation Act (WBCA)).
The second allows applicants to repeatedly travel in and out of the United States with their exotic pet (3-200-64: Certificate of Ownership for Personally Owned Wildlife "Pet Passport" under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES)).
Applicants should allow sufficient time (at least 60 days) to obtain the permit before the expected travel date and be mindful of other requirements needed for international travel. The Service recognizes that pets are key family members.
For more information about traveling with an exotic pet, please review the following resources:
- Traveling with Your Pet Overseas and / or Across International Borders
- Traveling Abroad With Your Pet Bird
- USDA Resources for Traveling Abroad With a Pet
For first-time applicants, the roadmap provided below helps outline the key steps in the USFWS permit application process. The ePermits Help Desk is available to assist with any issues or questions.
