When Do You Need a Pet Import Permit? A Country-by-Country Guide
Many pet owners are surprised to discover they need official government permission - an import permit - before their pet can enter certain countries. Missing this step is one of the most common causes of animals being held at borders, returned to origin, or placed in quarantine at the owner’s expense.
Here’s a clear breakdown of which countries require advance permits and what the process involves.
Countries Where an Import Permit IS Required
Middle East
| Country | Authority | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| UAE | Ministry of Climate Change & Environment | Apply via TRACES or authorised UAE agent |
| Oman | MARA | Apply 4+ weeks before travel |
| Kuwait | PAHW | Required for all non-GCC origins |
| Qatar | MOPH | Required; process through Hamad Airport vet authority |
| Bahrain | MIAM | Required |
| Jordan | Ministry of Agriculture | Required |
| Saudi Arabia | MEWA | Required; breed restrictions apply |
Africa
| Country | Authority | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Kenya | Directorate of Veterinary Services | Required |
| Ghana | Veterinary Services Directorate | Required |
| Tanzania | MLFD | Required |
| Nigeria | NAQS | Required |
| Ethiopia | Ministry of Agriculture | Required |
| Zimbabwe | Department of Veterinary Services | Required |
| Mauritius | MAIFS | Required + quarantine; very strict |
Asia-Pacific
| Country | Authority | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Philippines | BAI | Required; process takes 4-6 weeks |
| Vietnam | Sub-Department of Animal Health | Required |
| Cambodia | Department of Animal Health | Required |
| Myanmar | Department of Animal Husbandry | Required |
| Australia | DAFF | Permit issued as part of pre-export approval |
| New Zealand | MPI | Pre-export approval required |
Americas
| Country | Authority | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Peru | SENASA | Pre-arrival notification/authorisation |
| Mexico | SENASICA | Import certificate required |
Countries Where an Import Permit is NOT Required
Most Western countries do not require a pre-import permit:
- UK: No permit. Microchip, vaccination, AHC or health certificate only
- USA: No permit for personal pets from most countries
- EU member states: No permit. Documentation only (AHC for non-EU origin)
- Canada: No permit for dogs/cats from most countries
- Japan: No permit per se, but strict pre-notification to MAFF required
How to Apply
Most permit applications require:
- Owner’s passport/residency details
- Animal species, breed, age, microchip number
- Current vaccination records
- Proof of residence at destination
- The health certificate (or draft) from your vet
Submit via the destination government portal, through their embassy in your home country, or via a licensed agent in the destination country.
Sources: IATA Travel Centre; individual country government authority websites. Data current as of May 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
Middle Eastern countries (Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, Jordan, UAE), most African countries (Kenya, Ghana, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Nigeria), Southeast Asian countries (Philippines, Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar), and some others including Mauritius and Mexico. EU and most Western countries do not require pre-import permits.
Your pet may be refused entry and held in quarantine at your expense, or returned to the origin country on the next available flight. In some countries, the animal may be impounded. Always obtain required permits before travel.
Allow a minimum of 4-6 weeks. Some countries (Mauritius, Australia) have permit processes that take longer. Apply as early as possible once your travel dates are confirmed.