Change to International Health Certificate Endorsement

April 9, 2024 — 

USDA issues alert to changes in the endorsement process for mail in international health certificate.

Due to staffing and workload, starting May 01,2024, all mailed in international health certificates from the East Coast (AL,CT, DE, DC,FL, GA,ME, MD, MA,NH,NJ,NY, NC,PA, PR,RI,SC, TN, VT, VI, VA,WV) will be processed in the USDA Raleigh Office. (USDA APHIS ATTN: VETS, 920 Main Campus Dr, Suite 200, Raleigh, North Carolina 27606)

There are 2 methods to obtain health certificate endorsement:

1. Digital/online certification and endorsement using the Veterinary Export Health Certification System (VEHCS).

   For best results, the accredited veterinarian should submit electronically through the Veterinary Electronic Health Certificates System (VEHCS).

   To get started: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/animalhealth/export/iregs-for­; animal-exports and follow VEHCS links under applicable countries or www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/pet-travel and follow VEHCS links under applicable countries.

2. Submit hardcopy certificates to the Service Center office in Raleigh, NC using overnight, express shipping.

After May 01,2024 if health certificates are mailed into the Albany, Harrisburg, or Gainesville offices this will result in significant delays in endorsement.

Please direct any questions or inquires to vspsny@usda.gov.

[Source: USDA APHIS 8 April 2024]