Guides & Checklists
International Pet Relocation Requirements
Everything you need for compliant, stress‑reduced pet travel abroad—microchips, vaccinations, health certificates, airline‑approved kennels, import permits, and timelines by destination.
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Core Requirements for Most Countries
These are the common pillars of international pet travel. Exact rules vary by destination and airline.
ISO Microchip
An ISO‑compatible microchip (15‑digit) placed before any qualifying vaccination. Bring your chip number and scanner if available.
Vaccinations
Up‑to‑date rabies is typical; some destinations require additional vaccines or titer tests. Observe waiting periods after vaccination.
Health Certificate
A vet‑issued (and often government‑endorsed) certificate confirming health, vaccinations, and fitness to fly within a set window before departure.
Import Permits
Some countries require a pre‑approved import permit or booking reference before travel. Lead time ranges from days to several weeks.
Quarantine Rules
Select destinations have quarantine on arrival or home isolation protocols. Space can be limited—reserve as early as possible.
Airline‑Approved Kennel
IATA‑compliant kennel sized to your pet’s measurements. Ventilation, fasteners, water bowls, absorbent bedding, and clear labeling required.
Country‑Specific Considerations
High‑level patterns—request a tailored checklist for exact steps.
EU & UK
ISO microchip, valid rabies, and a health certificate (or EU Pet Passport when applicable). UK arrivals often require approved routes and advance notifications.
Australia & New Zealand
Strict biosecurity: import permits, lab testing, precise vet timelines, and quarantine reservations. Plan months in advance.
Asia
Requirements vary widely. Some destinations need microchip + rabies + titer and government endorsement; others add import permits and pre‑arrival approvals.
Middle East
Expect import permits, endorsed health certificates, and airline routing constraints during hot seasons. Breed policies may apply.
Latin America
Generally straightforward with endorsed health certificates; some countries require pre‑arrival notifications or additional vaccines.
Timeline Planner
Typical sequencing for a smooth, compliant move.
60–120+ Days Out
Confirm destination rules, measure kennel, microchip (if needed), update rabies, and initiate any required titers or permits. Reserve quarantine when applicable.
30–45 Days Out
Finalize routing, gather documents, and schedule vet appointments aligned to the health certificate validity window.
10–14 Days Out
Complete the health exam and certificate; obtain government endorsement if required. Print copies and prepare kennel labels.
Travel Week
Check airline rules, attach dishes, absorbent bedding, and documents to the kennel. Arrive early for check‑in and heat/cold embargo checks.
Documents & Travel Checklist
Bring printed copies in a clear sleeve attached to the kennel.
Documents
• Microchip certificate/number
• Rabies vaccination certificate(s)
• Health certificate (endorsed if required)
• Import permit / pre‑approval (if applicable)
• Quarantine reservation (if applicable)
• Owner ID and contact info
• Rabies vaccination certificate(s)
• Health certificate (endorsed if required)
• Import permit / pre‑approval (if applicable)
• Quarantine reservation (if applicable)
• Owner ID and contact info
Kennel & Day‑Of
• IATA‑approved kennel sized to measurements
• Water bowls secured to the door
• Absorbent bedding (no straw/hay)
• Food portions and feeding instructions
• Labels: name, destination, contacts, live animal stickers
• Water bowls secured to the door
• Absorbent bedding (no straw/hay)
• Food portions and feeding instructions
• Labels: name, destination, contacts, live animal stickers