Import Regulations for Horses; Pre-Export Examination
We are removing the requirement that horses offered for importation to the United States be accompanied by documentation of pre-export examination occurring within 48 hours of departure from the port of embarkation endorsed by a salaried veterinary medical officer. We have found that logistical barriers prevent affected parties from meeting this requirement at this time. This action removes the requirement, while keeping in place other requirements of the regulations.
What this item does
The short version, using the agency's own summary text.
We are removing the requirement that horses offered for importation to the United States be accompanied by documentation of pre-export examination occurring within 48 hours of departure from the port of embarkation endorsed by a salaried veterinary medical officer. We have found that logistical barriers prevent affected parties from meeting this requirement at this time. This action removes the requirement, while keeping in place other requirements of the regulations.
Final rule.
Important dates
The dates that matter most for this item.
Published
April 10, 2026
Starts
May 11, 2026
Who published it
The agencies listed in the official filing.
Federal rulebook sections mentioned
These are the parts of the Code of Federal Regulations cited in the filing.