✅ Overview of Requirements:
- Import Permit: Obtain from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA).
- Equine Piroplasmosis (EP) Test: Negative result required within 15 days prior to export.
- Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA/Coggins) Test: Negative result required within 180 days prior to export.
- Veterinary Health Certificate (VS 17-145): Issued by a USDA-accredited veterinarian within 30 days prior to export.
- USDA Endorsement: Required for certain types of exports.
- Border Entry: Use a CFIA-staffed port of entry with prior notification.
📝 Step 1: Apply for a Canadian Import Permit
- How to Apply:
- Visit the My CFIA Portal.
- Create an account and apply for an import permit for live horses from the U.S.
- Processing Time: Allow 7–10 business days.
- Validity: Permit is valid for up to 90 days.
📄 Reference: CFIA – Importing Equines
🦠 Step 2: Equine Piroplasmosis (EP) Testing
- Requirement:
- Negative test for both Babesia caballi and Theileria equi.
- Test must be conducted within 15 days prior to export.
- Testing Method: cELISA test.
- Laboratory: Use a USDA-approved laboratory, such as the National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) in Ames, Iowa.
📄 Reference: CFIA – Equine Piroplasmosis Fact Sheet
🧪 Step 3: Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA/Coggins) Testing
- Requirement:
- Negative test result within 180 days prior to export.
- Testing Methods: Agar-gel immunodiffusion (Coggins) test or ELISA.
- Note: Foals up to five months of age are exempt if they accompany their dam and are identified on the dam’s certificate.
📄 Reference: USDA – Import Health Requirements for Horses to Canada
🩺 Step 4: Obtain a Veterinary Health Certificate (VS 17-145)
- Issued By: USDA-accredited veterinarian.
- Validity: Must be issued within 30 days prior to export.
- Includes:
- Horse’s identification details (name, age, sex, breed, markings, microchip/tattoo).
- Negative EIA and EP test results.
- Origin and destination addresses.
📄 Reference: USDA – Export Health Certificates
🖊️ Step 5: USDA Endorsement
- Required For:
- Permanent imports.
- Sales or transfers of ownership.
- Process:
- Submit the completed health certificate to a USDA Veterinary Services office for endorsement.
- Options: In-person appointment or overnight mail.
📍 Find your USDA Endorsement Office: USDA Endorsement Offices
🚐 Step 6: Prepare for Border Crossing
- Port of Entry: Use a CFIA-approved border crossing with a veterinarian on site.
- Notification: Contact the port at least 24 hours in advance.
- Documents to Bring:
- Printed CFIA import permit.
- Endorsed health certificate.
- Negative EIA and EP test results.
- Horse’s identification papers.
📄 CFIA Animal Import Offices: CFIA Office Locations
✅ Final Checklist
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| CFIA Import Permit | Apply via My CFIA Portal; valid for up to 90 days. |
| Equine Piroplasmosis Test | Negative cELISA test within 15 days prior to export. |
| Equine Infectious Anemia Test | Negative Coggins or ELISA test within 180 days prior to export. |
| Veterinary Health Certificate | VS 17-145 form issued within 30 days prior to export. |
| USDA Endorsement | Required for permanent imports or sales. |
| Border Entry Preparation | Notify CFIA port 24 hours in advance; bring all necessary documents. |