Moving with Rabbits Internationally: Import Rules, Airline Restrictions, and Country Bans
Rabbits are the world’s third most popular pet, yet international travel with a rabbit involves rules that surprise most owners. Unlike dogs and cats, where a standardised framework applies, rabbit import varies enormously by destination.
The Core Challenge: Country Rules Vary Widely
Dogs and cats have reasonably standardised international frameworks. Rabbits do not. Some countries treat rabbits as standard companion animals. Others classify them as livestock. A few ban them for biosecurity reasons.
Before planning any international move with a rabbit, check the destination country’s specific rules. Do not assume the rules are the same as for dogs.
Countries with Restrictions or Bans
| Country | Status |
|---|---|
| Australia | Import prohibited for pet rabbits (extreme biosecurity concern) |
| New Zealand | Prohibited; only allowed under strict scientific/biosecurity permits |
| UK | Permitted; health certificate required; specific format |
| EU | Permitted; health certificate required |
| USA | Permitted; no federal import restrictions for domestic rabbits |
| Canada | Permitted; health certificate required |
| Japan | Permitted; quarantine inspection on arrival |
| Singapore | Permitted with AVS import licence |
| UAE | Check with Ministry of Climate Change and Environment |
What Documents Does a Rabbit Need?
For most countries that permit rabbit imports:
- Microchip: Not all rabbits are microchipped; some countries require it. Implantation by a vet is straightforward.
- Health certificate: Issued by accredited vet, endorsed by government authority (APHA for UK, USDA APHIS for USA)
- VHD vaccination record: Viral Haemorrhagic Disease vaccination (VHD1 and VHD2) is not universally required but is recommended and required by some destinations
- Import permit: Required by some destinations (Middle East, Singapore, Japan)
Which Airlines Accept Rabbits?
Most major airlines accept rabbits as checked baggage or cargo. In-cabin acceptance is rare for international routes. Airlines commonly accepting rabbits in cargo: KLM, Lufthansa, Air France, United PetSafe. Always confirm directly with the airline.
Rabbits are sensitive to temperature extremes and stress. Avoid summer cargo embargoes and minimise connection time.
The Australia and New Zealand Situation
Australia and New Zealand classify rabbits as significant invasive pest species. Importation of live rabbits as pets is prohibited. There are no exemptions for pet rabbits. If you are moving to Australia or New Zealand with a pet rabbit, you will need to rehome or care for the animal before you leave.
Sources: Australian Department of Agriculture biosecurity guidance on rabbits; MPI New Zealand prohibited goods list; APHA UK rabbit import requirements. Data current as of June 2026.