Small dog in an airline-approved pet carrier at an airport terminal

Traveling internationally with a dog involves considerably more planning than a domestic trip. Each country has its own import requirements, and airlines have their own policies — many of which have changed significantly in recent years. This guide gives you a framework for navigating international pet travel, with links to the authoritative sources you'll need to consult for your specific destination.

Important: International pet import regulations change frequently. Always verify requirements directly with your destination country's official government or agricultural authority before your trip. The guidance below is a general framework, not a substitute for current official requirements.

Step 1: Microchipping

Microchipping is the universal baseline for international pet travel. Most countries require dogs entering their territory to be microchipped with an ISO 11784/11785-compliant 15-digit microchip. The microchip must typically be implanted before the rabies vaccination for the vaccination to be recognized.

If your dog isn't already microchipped, this is your first step — see your veterinarian well in advance of travel.

Step 2: Rabies Vaccination

A valid rabies vaccination is required for entry into virtually every country. Requirements vary by destination:

  • Waiting period – Many countries require a waiting period of 21–30 days after a valid rabies vaccination before entry is permitted
  • Vaccine timing – Some countries require the vaccine to be administered after microchipping
  • Titer test – Certain countries (including some EU member states, Japan, Australia, and New Zealand) require a rabies antibody titer test to confirm vaccine efficacy, with an additional wait period after the test

The USDA APHIS Pet Travel website is the authoritative U.S. resource for international pet travel requirements, with country-specific information updated regularly.

Step 3: Health Certificate

Most countries require a health certificate issued by a licensed, accredited veterinarian within 10 days of travel. In the U.S., this certificate must typically be endorsed by the USDA APHIS Veterinary Services office — a process that requires advance planning as endorsement appointments can be limited.

  1. Schedule a vet appointment within 10 days of departure
  2. Have your vet complete the required health certificate form for your destination country
  3. Book a USDA APHIS endorsement appointment (allow 3-5 business days minimum)
  4. Bring your endorsed certificate when traveling — keep a digital copy as a backup

Step 4: Airline Requirements

Airlines have their own pet travel policies, which may be more restrictive than country import requirements:

  • In-cabin vs. cargo – Small dogs (typically under 8kg/17.6lbs in an approved carrier) may travel in-cabin on many airlines. Larger dogs travel in the cargo hold. Many airlines have restricted or eliminated cargo pet transport in recent years — verify directly with your airline.
  • Breed restrictions – Brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds such as bulldogs, pugs, and Boston terriers face restrictions on many airlines due to respiratory risk in cargo holds
  • Carrier requirements – Carriers must fit under the seat in front of you for in-cabin travel; airlines specify exact dimensions
  • Temperature restrictions – Many airlines suspend cargo pet travel during extreme heat or cold

Step 5: Destination Country Import Requirements

International pet travel documents including health certificate and microchip record

Beyond the universal basics, each destination country has specific requirements:

  • Quarantine – Some countries (notably Australia, New Zealand, Hawaii, and others) require mandatory quarantine periods regardless of vaccination status
  • Additional vaccinations – Some destinations require vaccinations beyond rabies (Bordetella, Leptospirosis, etc.)
  • Tapeworm treatment – Entry to the UK, Ireland, Finland, Malta, and Norway requires documented tapeworm treatment with praziquantel within 1-5 days before entry
  • Import permits – Some countries require advance import permits before your pet arrives

The CDC dog importation requirements page covers U.S.-specific incoming requirements and provides a framework for understanding what other countries may require.

Building Your Timeline

International pet travel requires a minimum of 6 months of planning for most destinations. Key milestones:

  • 6+ months before – Research destination requirements; schedule microchipping if needed; begin rabies vaccination sequence if titer test required
  • 3-4 months before – Complete any required titer tests; begin import permit process if required
  • 3-4 weeks before – Book airline tickets with pet reservation confirmed; book APHIS endorsement appointment
  • Within 10 days of departure – Vet visit for health certificate; APHIS endorsement

See our guide to flying with your dog for airport-day preparation and carrier selection advice.