Pet Transport from USA to South Africa: DALRRD Permits, Airlines and the Process

South Africa is a popular destination for American expats and returning South Africans, and the country accepts dogs and cats from the USA. The process has a few steps but is well-understood by specialists.

South Africa’s Requirements for US-Origin Pets

The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) regulates live animal imports. Requirements for dogs and cats from the USA include:

  • An import permit from DALRRD (apply before travel; standard processing takes two to four weeks)
  • A health certificate issued by a USDA APHIS accredited veterinarian and endorsed by USDA APHIS, issued within ten days of travel
  • Rabies vaccination (current and valid on arrival)
  • Core vaccinations (distemper, parvovirus, hepatitis for dogs; herpesvirus, calicivirus, panleukopenia for cats)
  • Internal parasite treatment within a specified window before travel
  • External parasite treatment (flea and tick) within a specified window before travel
  • Microchip (ISO 11784/11785)

A rabies titre test is not a standard DALRRD requirement for US-origin pets, but confirm the current position when applying for your import permit.

Getting the DALRRD Import Permit

Apply to DALRRD before booking flights. The import permit specifies the port of entry (typically OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg), the species and breed, and the required treatments. Keep the permit number – you will need it when booking the airline cargo space.

Airlines for USA to South Africa

South African Airways (SAA) historically operated this route but has had operational disruptions. The most reliable current carriers for this corridor are:

  • Delta Air Lines via Atlanta (ATL) – Delta accepts live animal cargo on applicable long-haul routes
  • United Airlines via Newark (EWR) or Washington (IAD)
  • British Airways via London Heathrow – pets travel as cargo on the US-UK leg and the UK-Johannesburg leg (two bookings required)
  • Lufthansa via Frankfurt – a popular routing for hold pets

Summary Checklist

  • DALRRD import permit (apply 2-4 weeks before)
  • USDA APHIS-endorsed health certificate, within 10 days of departure
  • Rabies vaccination (current)
  • Core vaccinations
  • Internal and external parasite treatments
  • Microchip
  • IATA-compliant crate

Frequently Asked Questions

Apply to DALRRD (Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development) before your travel date. Allow two to four weeks for standard processing. The permit specifies your port of entry, the animal description, and the treatment requirements. Apply via the DALRRD website or contact their import control section directly.

A rabies titre test is not a standard DALRRD requirement for pets arriving from the USA. A current USDA APHIS-endorsed health certificate and valid rabies vaccination are the primary requirements. Confirm the current rules when you apply for your import permit, as requirements can change.

Delta Air Lines and United Airlines both serve OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) from the USA and accept live animal cargo on applicable routes. British Airways via London and Lufthansa via Frankfurt are also popular options. Contact the airline cargo team of your chosen carrier to book the live animal space.

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