Importing Live Cattle and Bison From Mexico to the United States

Last Modified: August 18, 2026

USDA has announced a phased reopening of select ports of entry along the southern border for the import of cattle from Mexico. For more information, see the latest USDA press release (July 2026).

cows in field

APHIS regulates the importation of all ruminants and their germplasm (embryos/oocytes, semen, cloning tissue) to prevent the spread of animal diseases. Ruminants include all animals that chew the cud, such as cattle, buffaloes, sheep, goats, deer, antelopes, camels, llamas, and giraffes.

View Countries From Which Bovines and Their Germplasm May Be Imported

Requirements

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Southern Border Ports With Facilities Currently Approved by APHIS To Export Bovines to the United States

USDA has announced a phased reopening of select ports of entry along the southern border for the import of cattle from Mexico. Dates of port reopenings are as follows: 

  • Douglas, AZ—August 24, 2026
  • Santa Teresa, NM—To be determined
  • Columbus, NM—To be determined

All other southern border ports of entry remain closed for the import of livestock.

View Port Services contacts by State

Protocols for the Import of Feeder Cattle, Breeding Cattle, and Cattle for Immediate Slaughter From Mexico to the United States; No Permit Is Required

New World Screwworm Requirements for Cattle and Bison From Mexico

Additional Import Guidance

Bovine embryos are not permitted to be imported from Mexico at this time.

Bovine semen is not permitted to be imported from Mexico at this time.

What You Need To Know

  • U.S. transits are classified as shipments presented to a U.S. port of entry for conveyance purposes to then be transported to a destination country shortly after.
  • Please note that any animals and their germplasm transiting the United States must not transit countries with questionable disease statuses prior to reaching a U.S. port of entry.
  • All transits require a contingency plan. Submit your contingency plan with your permit application (VS 17-129 (211.74 KB)) to laipermits@usda.gov. To submit an import permit electronically, visit APHIS eFile.
  • If you are applying to import live animals, semen, and embryos, you may submit applications by email to laipermits@usda.gov.

Contact Us

Live Animal Imports

For questions about import permits or permit applications:

Live Animal Import Permit Team

Email: laipermits@usda.gov

Phone: 301-851-3300

For general questions related to the import of a live animal:

Live Animal Import and Export

Email: laie@usda.gov

Phone: 301-851-3300

Importing Live Cattle and Bison From Mexico to the United States Contacts
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