Using the Veterinary Export Health Certification System (VEHCS)

Last Modified: November 19, 2024

The Veterinary Export Health Certification System (VEHCS) is APHIS’ secure online system for creating, issuing (complete, sign, date), submitting, and endorsing health certificates for international export of live animals and germplasm from the United States to other countries. We've compiled a number of resources to help you successfully use the system.

Veterinary Export Health Certification System

Log in to VEHCS

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VEHCS User Guides

Step-by-Step Guide to Using VEHCS

(PDF, 9.04 MB)

Learn about the different color-coded VEHCS banners, different types of VEHCS health certificates and how to complete them, and recent updates to VEHCS.
Quick Reference Guides for VEHCS Users

These short guides cover everything from creating and managing a VEHCS account to adding funds to your pre-purchase account and printing a completed health certificate.
Completing a Health Certificate

Watch this video to learn how to correctly complete a health certificate in VEHCS.

About VEHCS

APHIS accepts electronic signatures from USDA-accredited veterinarians for issuance of all live animal export health certificates, regardless of country of destination. To learn more, view this World Trade Organization (WTO) notification (123.1 KB) and check out the resources below.

The International Export of Animals

This video explains the advantages to using VEHCS and the role of the accredited veterinarian in issuing health certificates.
VEHCS: The Best Way to Obtain USDA Endorsement for Live Animals and Germplasm

(PDF, 1.83 MB)

This flyer highlights why VEHCS is the best way to obtain USDA endorsement for live animals and germplasm.
VEHCS Training for Accredited Veterinarians

Accredited veterinarians can take this online training to learn more about VEHCS.

Need Help?

VEHCS Help

From eAuthentication support to VEHCS troubleshooting, our experts are ready to help.

User ID, password, and technical support related to login:

eAuthentication Support

VEHCS/PCIT technical support, organization administration issues:

VEHCS/PCIT Help Desk

Email: pcithelpdesk@usda.gov

APHIS Endorsement Offices

Our endorsement offices can answer questions about issuing export certificates, interpreting regulations and requirements, saving and uploading PDF files, certificate status, payment (user fees), creating and uploading shipping labels, and accreditation.

Using the Veterinary Export Health Certification System (VEHCS) Contacts
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