Bringing a Pet to Sri Lanka: Quarantine Rules, Import Permits and What to Know

Sri Lanka requires careful planning for pet imports. Mandatory quarantine, a government import permit, and titre test requirements mean owners need to start the process at least 4 to 6 months before travel. The Department of Animal Production and Health (DAPH), under the Ministry of Agriculture, is the competent authority.

Import permit

An import permit from DAPH is required before your pet departs. The application includes: species, breed, age, sex, microchip number, vaccination history, titre test results, and owner details. Processing can take several weeks. Apply as early as possible, ideally 8 to 10 weeks before travel.

Microchip

ISO 11784/11785 microchip required. The chip must be implanted before or on the same day as the first rabies vaccination.

Rabies vaccination

Current rabies vaccination is required. The vaccination must be on record in the health certificate with product name, batch number, and expiry.

Titre test

Sri Lanka requires a rabies antibody titre test (RNATT) at an internationally accredited laboratory, showing at least 0.5 IU/ml. The blood sample must be drawn at least three months before arrival. Results from OIE-accredited labs are accepted.

Quarantine

All pets entering Sri Lanka undergo quarantine at the government facility in Pelawatte, Colombo. The standard period is 14 days. Owners are not usually permitted to visit during quarantine. Quarantine fees are payable on arrival. The facility provides basic care, but many owners arrange for additional comfort items to be delivered (check current rules with DAPH, as this varies).

Health certificate

An official health certificate from an accredited vet in the origin country, endorsed by the government veterinary authority, is required. The certificate must have been issued within 10 days of travel.

Arriving at Colombo

Pets arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB). Live animals must be declared on arrival and will be directed to DAPH officials for inspection and quarantine processing.

Practical advice

Given the titre test window and quarantine requirements, the minimum total preparation time is around 4 to 5 months. Work with an IPATA agent who has Sri Lanka experience – the permit process and quarantine booking require local knowledge.