Is an Iguana Legal in Spain? 2026 Complete Guide
Iguanas are legal in Spain, but as both a CITES Appendix II species and an invasive species listed in Spain, they require specific documentation and careful management.
Green iguanas (Iguana iguana) are listed under CITES Appendix II. Captive-bred iguanas are legal in most countries with proper documentation, but require CITES paperwork for any international movement. In some southern US states and southern Europe, green iguanas are also considered invasive.
- โ ๏ธ CITES status: Appendix II
- โ ๏ธ CITES export/import permits: Required for cross-border movement
- โ Spain, Germany, France, UK: Legal with CITES paperwork
- โ USA: Legal (native range in south FL โ invasive but legal to keep)
- โ Australia, New Zealand: Banned
Spain's Rules for Iguanas
Spain: Green Iguana Legal Status
โ ๏ธ Legal with CITES II documentation. However, green iguanas are also listed as an invasive species in Spain โ you must ensure yours cannot escape.
- CITES Article 10 Certificate โ required (CITES Appendix II).
- Registration with MITERD โ CITES II species must be registered with Spain's environment ministry.
- Invasive species declaration โ iguana (Iguana iguana) is on Spain's invasive species catalogue; ownership requires extra care and documentation.
- Microchip โ recommended for ID and registration.
In some Spanish regions (Canary Islands, Balearics) iguanas have established feral populations โ local authorities may apply additional restrictions.
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 an iguana in Spain?
Yes, but green iguanas are both CITES Appendix II and listed as an invasive species in Spain. You need an Article 10 Certificate and must register with MITERD.
Is the green iguana invasive in Spain?
Yes. Green iguanas have established feral populations in some Spanish regions (Canary Islands, Balearics) and are on Spain's invasive species catalogue. Owners must prevent escape.
What CITES documentation do I need for an iguana in Spain?
An Article 10 Certificate (for EU captive-bred) or CITES export/import permits (from non-EU countries). Contact Spain's MITERD.