Importing Your Pet to Thailand

Thailand is a manageable destination for pet import, especially compared to countries like Japan or Australia. There is no mandatory quarantine for pets arriving with correct documentation, which significantly reduces the stress of the process.

The Department of Livestock Development (DLD) oversees pet imports. An import permit must be obtained before travel, and the health certificate must meet DLD’s specific format. The whole process typically takes 6-10 weeks if you start early.

Dogs arriving from rabies-free countries may benefit from simplified requirements, though the DLD permit is required regardless of origin. Cats generally follow the same process as dogs.

The import permit: apply before you book

Thailand requires an import permit from the DLD before your pet can enter the country. The permit takes 2-4 weeks to process and must specify your pet’s details, the origin country, and the anticipated entry port. Bangkok Suvarnabhumi (BKK) is the main entry point.

Apply for the permit as soon as you know your travel date. The permit is valid for a specific period, so coordinate the timing with your flight booking. Many owners use a Thai pet import agent to handle this: the DLD process is straightforward but has specific format requirements for the application form.

Health certificate timing

The veterinary health certificate must be issued within 7 days of departure and must be endorsed by the official government veterinary authority in your origin country. Present the original certificate (not a copy) at the DLD inspection desk on arrival.

Thailand does not require a rabies titre test for most origins, but does require proof of current rabies vaccination. The microchip must be implanted before the vaccination for the vaccine record to be valid.