A Simple Guide to China Pet Travel

 

RELOCATING PETS IN AND OUT OF CHINA

Moving your pet to or from China can seem daunting at first glance due to the strict import rules and quarantine requirements.

While China's regulations are confusing, the good news is that several options for leaving and entering China are safe for pets – whether quarantine is required.

If you're ready to discuss a specific plan for your pet? Contact us to set up a consultation with our dedicated team here to assist you with a personalized consultation!

 

PET IMPORT REQUIREMENTS FOR CHINA

Chinese import protocols are strict concerning pets, and different cities and provinces may have varying requirements. To begin with, all pets entering China must meet the following conditions:

• Microchip: All pets must have a microchip compatible with international standards.
• Rabies Vaccinations: Pets must have a rabies vaccination within a year of departure (older than 30 days at the time of travel) and a second rabies vaccine.
• Rabies Titer Test: A rabies titer test is required for pets from non-approved countries. Pets from approved countries (e.g., New Zealand, Australia, the U.K., Japan, and Singapore) are exempt from the rabies titer test requirement.
• One Pet per Passport: A strict one pet per passport rule applies if entering China directly.

Failure to meet the above requirements may result in a 30-day quarantine and limit approved ports of entry. Additionally, many major cities in China require that dog owners obtain a dog license once the dog has arrived in the city.

Pro Tip: Always double-check the vaccination validity and microchip information before travel. Also, research the specific pet import requirements of your destination city in China to avoid surprises.

 

MOVING MULTIPLE PETS TO CHINA

If you have more than one pet, there are two options for importing multiple pets into China:

• Use another relative or friend's passport(s) to import your other pet(s).
• Enter China through Hong Kong.

The best choice for your family depends on your destination city in China. We're here to help you navigate this process, whether you have one pet or multiple furry companions.

 

PET QUARANTINE

As mentioned above, you can still enter China without a rabies titer test from an approved lab. However, your pet must stay in quarantine for 30 days before going home. Although the word quarantine can be intimidating, your pet will be cared for, and you

You can still enter China without a rabies titer test from an approved lab, but your pet must stay in quarantine for 30 days before going home. Although "quarantine" can be intimidating, your pet will be cared for in a clean, air-conditioned unit with outdoor areas for dogs and a cattery for cats. Pets are fed twice a day, and dogs are walked regularly.

Pro Tip: Familiarize yourself with the quarantine facility and its policies in advance. Inquire about communication options to check in on your pet throughout their stay.

 

PET EXPORT REQUIREMENTS FOR LEAVING CHINA

When you're ready to leave China, pets have no pre-export quarantine, making the process smoother. However, your pet must have the following:

• A completed vaccination booklet (with stickers) from a Chinese vet.
• A health certificate.
• An export permit from a government-approved vet or a government vet.

As some cities require a copy of your physical passport to be present during check-in for your pet, we recommend traveling after your pet has departed.

Pro Tip: Plan your departure date carefully, and coordinate with the government vet to ensure all necessary documents are in order for a seamless pet export process.

As you can tell from the information above, how you move your pet to or from China is primarily determined by the origin and destination cities. At PetRelocation, our team of experts is dedicated to providing you with personalized guidance and support, ensuring a safe and stress-free journey for your beloved pet.

Author:

PetRelocation Team

Topic:

Air Travel, Ask the Experts

Pet:

Cats, Dogs

Country:

China