Vietnam Pet Import Guide: DAH Requirements, Quarantine, and Entry Documentation

Vietnam’s expat community has grown significantly in recent years, and with it the number of families relocating with pets. The import process is more involved than many expect – quarantine is the norm rather than the exception, and advance planning is essential.

DAH import permit

Before your pet travels to Vietnam, you must obtain an import permit from the Department of Animal Health (DAH), part of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD). The permit must be in hand before your pet departs.

Apply through the DAH portal or through a licensed agent in Vietnam. The process typically takes 2-4 weeks. Provide:

  • Owner details and contact in Vietnam
  • Pet details (species, breed, sex, microchip number, age)
  • Origin country
  • Vaccination and health records
  • Proposed entry point and travel dates

Documentation required

  • ISO microchip (15-digit)
  • Rabies vaccination (valid and current)
  • Core vaccinations (distemper, parvovirus, leptospirosis for dogs; panleukopenia, herpesvirus for cats)
  • DAH import permit (original)
  • Official health certificate issued by a government-accredited vet in the origin country, endorsed within 10 days of travel
  • Negative test results may be required for some diseases depending on origin country

Quarantine

Pets entering Vietnam face a quarantine period at a government-approved facility on arrival. The standard period is 21 days for most origins. Pets from approved countries with full documentation may have this reduced.

Quarantine facilities in Vietnam are located at or near the major airports (Noi Bai in Hanoi, Tan Son Nhat in Ho Chi Minh City). The cost of quarantine is paid by the owner and varies but typically runs VND 3-6 million per week (around USD 120-240).

Practical notes

Vietnam has a growing expat veterinary sector in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. International-standard clinics with English-speaking vets are available in both cities.

The heat and humidity in Vietnam are significant factors for pet welfare, particularly for brachycephalic breeds. Dogs and cats that are sensitive to heat should have their crate and travel timing carefully considered.

Source

DAH, MARD (Vietnam): cucthuy.mard.gov.vn (verified May 2026).

Frequently Asked Questions

Pets entering Vietnam may face a quarantine period of up to 21 days depending on origin country and documentation. Pets with full documentation from approved countries often face a shorter inspection period (3-7 days). Budget for quarantine when planning your timeline and costs.

The DAH (Department of Animal Health), under the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD), manages pet imports. An import permit from DAH is required before your pet travels.

Cats entering Vietnam are subject to the same import rules as dogs, including the DAH import permit and potential quarantine period. The duration depends on origin country and documentation completeness.

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