South Africa Pet Import Guide: DALRRD Import Permit, Rabies Rules, and Arrival Process
South Africa is one of Africa’s most popular relocation destinations, and its pet import rules – while requiring advance planning – are manageable. The main requirement that trips people up is the import permit, which must be obtained before your pet travels.
DALRRD import permit
The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) issues import permits for dogs and cats entering South Africa. You apply online at the DALRRD portal, submitting:
- Owner and contact details
- Pet details (species, breed, sex, age, microchip number)
- Origin country
- Proposed port of entry and travel dates
- Supporting vaccination records
The permit fee is modest (around ZAR 500-1,000 depending on permit type). Processing typically takes 3-6 weeks but can be longer during busy periods. Apply at least 2 months in advance.
Documentation required
- DALRRD import permit (original)
- ISO microchip (15-digit, 11784/11785)
- Vaccination record including: rabies (given at least 30 days before travel), distemper, hepatitis, leptospirosis, parvovirus (dogs); panleukopenia, rhinotracheitis, calicivirus (cats)
- Official veterinary health certificate issued in the origin country within 10 days of travel, endorsed by the relevant government authority
- Treatment for external parasites within 7 days of travel
No quarantine for compliant pets
South Africa does not operate routine quarantine for dogs and cats from most countries. Pets that arrive with all paperwork in order are typically cleared quickly at the port of entry. The main risk is documentation errors – a missing permit or incorrect health certificate format can mean your pet is held at the airport at your expense.
Major ports of entry
OR Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg) is the primary entry point for international pets. Cape Town International also handles pet arrivals. Both airports have DALRRD inspection facilities.
Returning to your home country
If you plan to return to the UK, USA, or Australia with your South African-acquired pet, be aware:
- UK: requires AHC, microchip, rabies vaccination (21-day wait), tapeworm treatment 1-5 days before entry
- Australia: requires titre test, microchip, extensive documentation – budget 7-12 months minimum
- USA: requires rabies vaccination and USDA health certificate
Source
DALRRD (Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development): dalrrd.gov.za (verified May 2026).