Pet Transport from Malta to the United States: 2026 Guide
Relocating a pet from Malta to United States follows a clear path once you understand what United States asks for. Allow around 4-6 weeks. The requirements are modest compared with stricter destinations. Pets with correct documentation skip quarantine …
The Malta to United States import process
Every step must be completed in sequence. A single missed deadline can add months to your timeline. We own the entire process.
Responsible: Your vet in Malta
Responsible: You (owner)
Responsible: You or pet transport agent
Responsible: You
Responsible: Official vet
Responsible: You
What your pet needs to enter United States
Every item must be verified before your pet can board. We track each one against current standards.
What this route typically costs
Critical points
There are no direct flights from Malta to the US. Your pet will connect through a European hub. This is a normal part of pet cargo from Malta, but choose a hub with a well-established cargo pet facility.
Malta gets very hot in July and August. Airlines apply heat embargoes on cargo pet acceptance during the hottest months. Early morning flights offer the best chance of avoiding a temperature refusal, but it is not guaranteed. Spring or autumn travel is safer.
The CDC Dog Import Form is mandatory. Without the receipt, your dog may be refused entry or held on arrival. It is free and takes 10 minutes online. Do this first.
Approved carriers for this route
Not all airlines accept live animals. We book only with carriers that handle live animal cargo correctly.
How United States handles incoming pets
What experienced owners do
Confirm live animal acceptance on every flight segment before booking. Not all aircraft or connections take pets, and cargo terms can differ leg to leg.
Keep every original document together and take copies. Border officials want originals, and a missing signature or date can hold up clearance.
Work backwards from your travel date and add a buffer. Fixed waiting periods mean a single slipped appointment can push the whole move back by weeks.
Check the airline’s crate size and labelling rules early. An undersized or wrongly labelled crate is a frequent reason pets are refused at check-in.