Bringing a Pet to Kenya: DVS Requirements and What Expats Need to Know

Kenya has a growing expat community and receives significant numbers of pets relocating with diplomatic, NGO, and corporate staff. The process is managed by the Directorate of Veterinary Services (DVS) and requires advance preparation.

DVS import permit

An import permit from DVS is required before your pet travels. Apply with enough lead time for processing - the permit needs to be in hand before the pet departs the origin country. The permit specifies the animal, origin, destination, and travel window.

Health certificate

A veterinary health certificate from an accredited vet in the origin country is required. For UK arrivals, APHA endorsement is needed. The certificate must cover microchip, rabies vaccination, other core vaccines, and a clinical examination confirming the animal is healthy and free from signs of disease.

Arriving at JKIA

Most international pets arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi. DVS and KEPHIS inspectors are present for live animal arrivals. They verify the import permit, health certificate, and physically inspect the animal.

Rabies

Kenya is in a region with active rabies in wildlife. Rabies vaccination for arriving pets is non-negotiable. First vaccination requires adequate time for immunity development before travel. If you’re travelling with a pet that hasn’t been vaccinated for rabies, start the process at least 6 weeks before planned travel to allow a completed vaccination course.

Practical considerations

Nairobi’s climate is moderate (it sits at high altitude), but routes transiting through hot Gulf hubs can create airline cargo embargoes issues. If routing via Dubai or Doha to Nairobi, confirm live animal acceptance at the transit point during summer months.