Import and export of animals

You would like to import animals? Please note that depending on the country of origin, animal species or even import purpose, different requirements must be met. Following some hints:

• Different regulations apply to the import of dogs, cats and ferrets depending on the country of origin. The online tool  "With dog, cat or ferret across the border" 
   of the BLV provides the latest information.

• For all other animals, import requirements can be determined via the import query of the BLV  with just a few clicks.

• The cross-border movement of animals and animal products from member states of the European Community must be documented in the electronic information system TRACES New Technology NT . Upon importation, the veterinary authority of the country of origin must submit an electronic TRACES message to the Food and Veterinary Office. Health certificates issued in the country of origin must be carried when crossing the border. Important: All trade participants must be registered in Traces NT for this purpose. The competent office for the registration of Liechtenstein participants is the Food and Veterinary Office.

• For some species, the requirements are clearly defined. For other species, "national" rules apply. It is the responsibility of the exporter to clarify the actually applicable requirements with the authorities of the country of destination and any transit countries.
• The determined requirements are to be communicated to the ALKVW at an early stage so that the necessary health certificates or any permits can be issued.
• Special case  goats, deer, pigs or camelids: Keepers, who wish to export such animals, must start in-house health monitoring programs at least one year before the (first) export. 
• If species-protected animals are exported, a permit from the FSVO is required.
• The shipment of animals must be reported to the competent veterinary authority of the country of destination via the electronic system Traces New Technology.  The ALKVW requires the following data for this purpose

  Notification form

• Shippings of animals must usually be accompanied by a health certificate. These are already available, have been validated by the BLV and can be used in consultation with the ALKVW.  Overview of export documents BLV
• Some countries of destination require that export establishments be approved. Overview Export Documents BLV
• If species-protected animals are exported, it requires a permit from the BLV.