Pet Transport from Malta to New Zealand
Planning to move your pet from Malta to New Zealand? Get Your Quote
Getting your dog or cat from Malta to New Zealand is entirely achievable, but the preparation timeline is not flexible.
This route is relatively straightforward compared to some international routes. Start preparations at least 4 weeks before your travel date – some steps have fixed waiting periods that cannot be shortened.
We’ve laid out every step below so you know exactly what to prepare and when.
Step-by-Step Process
Microchip your pet (ISO 11784/11785 standard)
First step - must be done before any vaccinations.
Responsible: Your veterinarian
Book IATA-compliant flight and cargo/cabin space
2-4 weeks before travel. Confirm pet space with airline directly.
Responsible: You (or your pet transport agent)
Obtain official veterinary health certificate
Within 10 days of travel (check destination-specific requirement)
Responsible: Official veterinarian
Travel day: arrive early, present all documentation at cargo desk
3-4 hours before departure for cargo pets; 2 hours for cabin
Responsible: You + airline check-in/cargo desk
New Zealand Import Requirements
What New Zealand requires for pets entering the country.
Microchip
Required (ISO 11784/11785)
Rabies Vaccination
Required
Quarantine
Check current requirements with destination authority
Import Permit
Check with destination authority
Health Certificate
Required
Exporting from Malta
What you need from Malta before your pet can leave.
Export Permit
{'required': False}
Cost Factors
Costs vary depending on pet size, transport method, and whether you use a transport agent.
- Airline cargo or cabin fees (varies by carrier, route, pet weight, and crate size)
- IATA-compliant travel crate (purchase or hire)
- Veterinary fees: vaccinations, microchipping, health certificate
- Pet transport agent fee (recommended for complex routes)
Important Warnings
Why this route needs early planning
Compared to some international pet transport routes, Malta to New Zealand is manageable. That said, every country’s rules are different and the timing requirements are strict.
Practical advice for shipping your pet from Malta
Microchip first, then vaccinate. The microchip must be implanted before any rabies vaccination for the vaccination to count. It’s the most common and costly mistake people make.
Get the health certificate from an official (government-approved) veterinarian, not just your regular vet. Some countries have strict requirements about who can sign the certificate. Check the destination authority’s approved list.
If this is your first international pet move, consider using a registered pet transport agent. They handle the documentation, airline booking, crate sizing, and can troubleshoot issues. IPATA-registered agents are the recognised standard.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Related Routes
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