Is a Cockatiel Legal in Spain? CITES Rules 2026
Yes, cockatiels are legal pets in Spain โ but as CITES Appendix II birds, they require an Article 10 Certificate and a closed ring proving captive-bred origin.
Cockatiels (Nymphicus hollandicus) are listed under CITES Appendix II. Captive-bred cockatiels are legal to keep and travel with, but require CITES documentation โ specifically proof of captive-bred origin (Article 10 Certificate in EU, or equivalent). Wild-caught cockatiels are strictly prohibited from trade under CITES.
- โ ๏ธ CITES status: Appendix II
- โ ๏ธ Captive-bred cert: Required for cross-border movement
- โ ๏ธ CITES import permit: Required in non-EU countries (UK, USA, Australia)
- โ EU movement: Article 10 Certificate + pet passport
Spain's Rules for Cockatiels
Spain: Cockatiel Legal Status
โ ๏ธ Legal with CITES documentation. Cockatiels are CITES Appendix II but very common as pets in Spain.
- Article 10 Certificate (captive-bred) โ required for EU movement of CITES II birds.
- Vet health certificate โ for any cross-border movement.
- Bird ring or microchip โ closed ring proves captive-bred in EU; required for CITES registration.
- Import from non-EU: CITES export permit from origin + import notification to Spain's MITERD.
Official sources
- Spain MITERD โ CITES and exotic species โ
- EU CITES Management Authority โ
- CITES Species Database โ
- โ ISO 11784/11785 microchipping before rabies vaccine timeline
- โ Rabies titer blood test (RNATT) & mandatory 90-day waiting period
- โ Airport transit zone regulations, international vet certificates & EU pet passport
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FAQ
Can I keep a cockatiel in Spain?
Yes. Cockatiels are popular pets in Spain, but they require CITES documentation โ specifically an Article 10 Certificate for EU movement.
What is a closed ring for a cockatiel?
A closed ring is a permanent band placed on a chick's leg in the nest, proving it was born in captivity. Required in Spain for registration of CITES II birds.
Do I need a permit to buy a cockatiel in Spain?
No special purchase permit, but the seller must provide an Article 10 Certificate. Always ask for CITES documentation when buying a bird.
Can I bring a cockatiel from the USA to Spain?
Yes, but you need a CITES export permit from the USA (from US Fish & Wildlife) and an EU import notification. Plus a vet health certificate.