Import and Quarantine Policies

I have compiled a summary of policies about importing cats and dogs to as many countries as I could find. Whenever possible, I also supplied a jump point to the official web site of the destination for more complete details about the country's requirements. So if a country's name is in blue and underlined, then click it to see more info about the destination's policies.

You should also check with the destination's local Consulate or Embassy to verify information, if you can't reach their official web site. And, if you're in the USA, then you can contact the US Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service department for up-to-date requirements.

As far as I can tell, all countries require a current rabbies vaccination. This means that the vaccination must be at least 30 days old and not more than 12 months, although some places require less than 6 months. Even if your cat receives 5 year vaccines, you're better off getting a current vaccination as many countries don't recognize the validity of a 5 year vaccine.

In general, I'd suggest that your cat's Rabies cerificate includes details about the vaccine used (serial #, batch #, live vs. killed, expiration date, manufacturer, etc.). Usually the label can be peeled off the bottle and applied to the certificate. Many governments feel more comfortable with these details, and some require it. We also get the same details for RC's annual FVRCP, and Feline Leukemia vaccinations.

If you are departing from the USA, then you should be sure to obtain the US Interstate and International Certificate. To learn more about how to obtain this certificate, click here.

There is no "standard" health certificate. Even the US Interstate and International Certificate varies from state to state. We are often departing from remote corners of the world. We've always been fortunate to find very qualified, caring vets, but they don't have any experience with preparing health certificates. Click here to see a simple health certificate that you can print and use. We usually modify this form so it includes English and the languages of the place we are departing and arriving to help officials. We also have created a simple booklet where we have all of RC's annual vaccinations, including labels from the vaccine bottles, kept.