It is the exporter's responsibility to ensure that the animal meets the importing country requirements.

Most rodents can be imported to Canada without an import permit or health certificate.

Information about the process required to import animals into Canada can be found on the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) website.

Email

cfia.nisc-csni.acia@canada.ca

The CFIA advises that it is the importer's responsibility to determine whether the species for importation into Canada is subject to the controls imposed by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) and/or other restrictions under the Wild Animal and Plant Protection and Regulations of International and Interprovincial Trade Act (WAPPRIITA), which are administered by the Canadian Wildlife Service.

Refer to these and the Department's websites for current information about exporting animals (including any suspensions).

Note

Where an importing country issues an import permit, the exporter must ensure the animal meets any requirements in the permit.

As required by the importing country.

Although most rodents can be imported to Canada without an import permit or health certificate, there are some species or circumstances where restrictions do apply. Requests for importation are evaluated on a case-by-case basis and an animal health risk assessment may be required. The Automated Import Reference System (AIRS) provides guidance on the current import requirements for CFIA regulated commodities based on applicable animal health policies.

Permission to move animals out of Australia

You may need permission, under wildlife trade laws, to move certain animals out of Australia. Refer to the Department's International and wildlife trade requirements. There is specific guidance for non-commercial wildlife trade for public exhibition, scientific research, conservation breeding and personal use.

Transport requirements

The importing country may have specific transport requirements and you should check this. An inspection at the border related to the humane transport of animals may be conducted.

Pre- and post-quarantine requirements

The importing country may have specific pre- and post-quarantine requirements and you should check this.

If your animal is returning to Australia, you should make yourself familiar with the Department's requirements for importing live animals into Australia. This is important as your animal may have been exposed to diseases that do not occur in Australia.

Based on importing country website and information.

Entry last reviewed 27 May 2021.