Moving Pets to Thailand: DLD Requirements, Quarantine, and Bangkok Airport Pickup
Thailand’s Department of Livestock Development (DLD) manages pet imports. The process is moderately complex but well-documented, and tens of thousands of expat families have completed it successfully.
Core Requirements
- ISO 15-digit microchip (required before any documentation)
- Rabies vaccination: current, administered after microchipping
- Import permit from DLD: apply before travel through the DLD or via the Thai consulate in your country
- Health certificate: issued within 10 days of travel, endorsed by the government veterinary authority in your country
- Rabies titre test: required for pets from non-approved countries - the UK requires a titre test. Result must be ≥0.5 IU/mL. Blood drawn at least 30 days after vaccination.
Quarantine
Thailand operates a 30-day mandatory quarantine for pets from most countries, including the UK. The quarantine is served at a DLD-approved facility at Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) in Bangkok.
Some sources report shorter periods under certain conditions - verify current DLD policy before booking, as rules update periodically.
The quarantine facility at Suvarnabhumi is well-staffed with experienced veterinary care. You can visit your pet during the quarantine period.
Cost Estimate
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Titre test | £150 |
| Import permit (DLD fee) | THB 1,000-2,000 (~£22-44) |
| Health certificate + endorsement | £250 |
| Airline cargo (UK-Bangkok) | £400-1,000 |
| 30-day quarantine | THB 30,000-60,000 (~£660-1,320) |
| Agent fee | £300-600 |
| Total | ~£2,000-3,500 |
Arriving at Suvarnabhumi (BKK)
Your pet arrives via the cargo terminal at Suvarnabhumi. Arrange advance collection with a Thai-licensed customs agent - your pet cannot be collected without a cleared import permit and customs agent involvement. A Bangkok-based IPATA agent can arrange this.
Sources: Thailand DLD import requirements. Data current as of {TODAY}.