Prepared by Marcus Webb, Senior Pet Relocation Consultant
Step by step
The India to Thailand pet import process
Each step must be completed in a precise sequence. Start early. We manage every stage and deadline.
1
Complete all required vaccinations (rabies and core vaccines)
Responsible: DAHD-authorised vet
At least 21 days before arrival in Thailand; within the past 12 months
2
Apply for DLD import permit
Responsible: Owner or Thai-based agent
7-60 days before departure; permit valid 60 days
3
Obtain official DAHD health certificate with government stamp
Responsible: DAHD-authorised vet
As close to departure as possible; ensure validity on arrival
4
Book cargo space (Air India Cargo or Thai Airways Cargo)
Responsible: Owner or agent
4-6 weeks before travel
Which Thailand rules depend on a pet coming from India?
None of the Thailand rules we have verified names India on its own.
The rules that apply to every pet entering Thailand, whatever the origin, are listed with their official sources in our Thailand guide.
What does India require before your pet leaves?
Export permit: Not required: AQCS's full list of requirements for exporting a pet dog or cat contains no Indian export permit or licence; only the importing country's own permit, if it has one. Applies to dogs and cats leaving India. Export of pets (Dog & Cats), checked 1 October 2026
Export health certificate: For export, the owner takes the pet and documents (originals and copies) to the AQCS quarantine office 7 days before embarkation, with a prior appointment, to obtain the NOC (export certificate). Applies to dogs and cats leaving India. Export of pets (Dog & Cats), checked 1 October 2026
Export health certificate: A fit-to-fly veterinary health certificate from a local registered vet is required, plus microchip certificate, vaccination details, owner's passport and ticket, and any importing-country requirements (import permit, titre test). Applies to dogs and cats leaving India. Export of pets (Dog & Cats), checked 1 October 2026
Export health certificate: The AQCS export certificate is valid for 10 days from issue or examination. Applies to dogs and cats leaving India. Export of pets (Dog & Cats), checked 1 October 2026
Export health certificate: The document is the AQCS 'Certificate of Health for Export (Pet Animals)', normally issued the same day. Applies to dogs and cats leaving India. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs), checked 1 October 2026
Other conditions: A separate application form is needed for each pet; if the pet is too young for a vaccination, the mother's vaccination record must be produced. Applies to dogs and cats leaving India. Export of pets (Dog & Cats), checked 1 October 2026
Costs
What this route typically costs
Rabies and core vaccinations: INR 1,000-3,500 depending on number of vaccines
DAHD health certificate: INR 2,000-5,000
DLD import permit fee: nominal Thai government charge
Air India or Thai Airways cargo from DEL/BOM to BKK: USD 500-1,400 depending on crate size
IATA-compliant crate (if needed): USD 60-250 depending on size
Agent fees India (optional): USD 400-800
Total typical range: USD 1,200-2,800 for a medium dog
Critical points to read before you book
The DLD import permit must be secured before travel. Contact the Animal Quarantine Station at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi or Don Mueang by email; they send the permit within around 7 working days. Apply no later than 7 days before departure.
Microchip must be implanted before the rabies vaccination. If the microchip was inserted after vaccination, Thai DLD considers the vaccination record invalid and the pet may face quarantine.
All vaccines must be current and within 12 months of travel. Expired vaccines, even by a day, can result in the permit being rejected.
The health certificate must have a government stamp from DAHD. A certificate signed only by a private vet without official endorsement will not be accepted.
Thailand does not require a titre test, but ensure vaccination records are clear and complete. Any ambiguity in vaccination history can prompt quarantine at the officer's discretion.
Airlines
Carriers approved for this route
Not all airlines accept live animals on this route. We know which carriers to use and how to book.
AIR INDIA
Air India
Air India operates from DEL and BOM to BKK (Bangkok Suvarnabhumi). Pets as cargo. IATA-compliant crate required. Book Air India Cargo at least 4-6 weeks ahead for large pets.
Cargo Only
THAI AIRWAYS
Thai Airways
Thai Airways (TG) flies directly from DEL and BOM to BKK. Cargo service available through Thai Airways Cargo. Temperature-controlled hold. One of the most established carriers on this corridor.
Cargo Only
SPICEJET
SpiceJet
SpiceJet operates some international routes to Bangkok. Check current schedule for pet cargo availability. Not all SpiceJet international routes accept live animals.
Cargo Only
FAQ
Common questions about India to Thailand pet transport
No. Thailand does not require a FAVN titre test for pet imports. The main requirements are a current rabies vaccination (plus core vaccines for dogs), a DLD import permit, and an official DAHD health certificate with a government stamp.
Not automatically. Quarantine is discretionary in Thailand. For compliant arrivals with all correct documentation, DLD officers typically clear the pet on arrival. A quarantine detention of up to 30 days can be imposed if there are document irregularities or health concerns.
Apply by email to the DLD Animal Quarantine Station at your port of entry (typically Bangkok Suvarnabhumi or Don Mueang). Include your pet’s vaccination records, microchip number and travel date. The permit is issued within about 7 working days and is valid for 60 days. Apply between 7 and 60 days before departure.
Air India Cargo and Thai Airways Cargo are the established options for large pet cargo on India-Bangkok routes. Both operate direct services from DEL and BOM to BKK. Book cargo space at least 4-6 weeks ahead and confirm the live animal booking explicitly with the cargo division, not just the passenger desk.
Airline guides
Air India
Thai Airways
SpiceJet
Breed guides
Check breed-specific airline rules and country bans.
Requirements on this page were checked against the authorities below. Rules change, so confirm
current conditions with the relevant authority before you travel.
AQCS· Animal Quarantine and Certification Service, India, under the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying
IATA· International Air Transport Association, Live Animals Regulations