If you’re planning to export animals from Uganda, whether domestic or wild, you need to obtain an International Health Certificate (IHC) from the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries. This certificate ensures that the animals meet the health and safety requirements of the destination country. Below is a detailed guide on how to apply for this certificate.
In-Person Application Procedure
- Know the Animal Type, Destination, and Date of Departure
- Before applying, determine the type of animal being exported, the destination country, and the date of departure from Uganda.
- Obtain the Application Form
- Visit the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries to obtain the International Health Certificate application form. This form can also be accessed on the Ministry’s website.
- Fill Out the Application Form
- Complete the form with all the necessary details about the animal being exported, including:
- Animal identification and health details
- Veterinary inspections and lab tests completed
- Details about the health status of the animals and any treatments or vaccines administered
- Complete the form with all the necessary details about the animal being exported, including:
- Attach the Required Documents
- Along with the application form, attach the following documents:
- Copy of National ID or Passport for the nominated employee handling the export
- Inspection report from a registered veterinary practitioner
- Recommendation from Uganda Wildlife Authority for wild animals
- CITES certificate from the Ministry of Wildlife (for certain wild species)
- Importing country’s requirements for health certificates
- Import permit from the destination country
- Documentation showing animal identification and health details
- Along with the application form, attach the following documents:
- Submit the Application
- Submit the completed form with all required documents to the Commissioner, Livestock Health and Entomology at the Ministry of Agriculture.
- Verification and Pre-Travel Examination
- The veterinary officer will perform all required pre-travel physical examinations for the animals, ensuring that they meet all export health requirements, including vaccines, treatments, and lab tests.
- Issuance of the International Health Certificate
- Once verified, the veterinary officer will endorse and issue the International Health Certificate. The certificate is sent to the exporting party, along with any supporting documents for records.
- Notification and Collection
- The exporter will be notified via SMS once the health certificate is ready for collection. You can pick up the certificate from the Ministry of Agriculture within 30 days.
Required Documents
- Application form (completed)
- National ID or passport of the applicant
- Inspection report from a registered veterinary practitioner
- Recommendation from Uganda Wildlife Authority (for wild animals)
- CITES certificate (if applicable)
- Import permit from the destination country
- Animal identification and health information
- Proof of vaccinations, treatments, and lab tests
- Certificate from veterinary officer confirming pre-travel health status
Eligibility
- Any individual or company wishing to export domestic or wild animals from Uganda is required to obtain the International Health Certificate.
Fees
- Domestic Animals: UGX 40,000
- Wildlife Animals: UGX 60,000
Processing Time
- The maximum processing time for the application is 60 days, depending on the specific requirements of the exporting and importing countries.
Validity
- The International Health Certificate is valid per consignment and only for the specific animals being exported.
Office Locations & Contacts
- Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries
Physical Address: Plot 16-18, Lugard Avenue, Entebbe, Uganda
Postal Address: P.O. Box 102, Entebbe, Uganda
Tel: +256 414 320004
Email: [email protected]
Website: Ministry of Agriculture Uganda
Need for the Document
The International Health Certificate is essential for ensuring that animals meet the health and safety requirements of the destination country. It confirms that the animals have been properly vaccinated, treated, and are free from diseases that could spread to other countries.
Other Uses of the Document
The International Health Certificate is primarily used for exporting animals but also serves as a proof of compliance with veterinary and international standards for animal health and safety.
By following these steps, you can successfully apply for an International Health Certificate for the export of animals from Uganda, ensuring smooth and legal exportation that meets international regulations.
