Importing Your Pet to Philippines

The Philippines has a structured pet import system managed by the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI). The process is manageable but has specific documentation requirements that catch unprepared owners off guard.

An import permit from the BAI must be obtained before travel. The permit is issued relatively quickly (typically 1-2 weeks for household pets) but must be in place before you fly. Most pets arrive via Manila (NAIA), which has a dedicated animal inspection area.

The Philippines does not require a rabies titre test for dogs and cats from most origins, making the preparation timeline more flexible than Japan or Australia. A 7-10 day quarantine inspection period may apply on arrival, though full facility quarantine is not required for compliant pets from approved countries.

Import permit and approved entry points

Apply for the BAI import permit online or through a registered pet transport agent. You’ll need your pet’s microchip number, rabies vaccination certificate, and health certificate details when applying. The permit specifies the approved port of entry.

Main ports with animal inspection facilities: Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Manila, Mactan Cebu International Airport, and Francisco Bangoy International Airport (Davao). Arrive at the port specified on your import permit: arriving at a different port without prior approval can result in detention of your pet.

Breed restrictions

The Philippines bans certain dog breeds from import. Banned breeds include Pit Bull Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers, Staffordshire Bull Terriers, and dogs that are substantially similar in appearance. Mixed breeds with these as a component may also be affected.

If you own one of these breeds or a breed that could be mistaken for one, contact the BAI directly before making any travel arrangements. Import refusal is enforced at the port.