Importing Pets to Thailand: Cat & Dog Quarantine Rules

TL;DR

Pets imported into Thailand require an import permit (R.7) from the Department of Livestock Development (กรมปศุสัตว์, MoAC) under the Animal Epidemics Act B.E. 2558 (2015). Cats and dogs need ISO-compliant microchip, current rabies vaccination (21+ days but less than 1 year old), and a health certificate from origin within 10 days of travel. Quarantine in Thailand is typically not required if all paperwork is in order and origin is a rabies-controlled country.

Pre-Travel Checklist

• Microchip (ISO 11784/11785) implanted before vaccination.
• Rabies vaccination — must be after microchip; valid 21+ days, less than 1 year.
• Health certificate from a licensed vet within 10 days of travel.
• Export endorsement from origin-country veterinary authority.
• Pre-application for Thai import permit via DLD.

On Arrival

1. Land at Suvarnabhumi or Don Mueang.
2. Customs declaration (separate from passenger goods).
3. DLD officer inspects animal + documents.
4. If all in order — release directly.
5. If documents missing — quarantine at DLD facility (cost + duration variable).

Costs (Indicative)

• Import permit: THB 100-500.
• Shipping (air cargo or in-cabin): variable.
• Origin-country export endorsement: variable.

Common Mistakes

• Vaccinating before microchipping — invalidates the rabies certificate.
• Missing the 21-day post-vaccination wait.
• Health certificate older than 10 days.
• Airline not approved for pet transport on the chosen route.

FAQs

1. Restricted breeds?

Some airlines restrict snub-nosed breeds; Thai immigration has no breed ban but DLD case-by-case for exotic species.

2. Exotic pets?

CITES-listed species (parrots, reptiles) require additional CITES paperwork.

Related Reading

• Business in Thailand Hub