Bringing Your Dog, Cat, or Other Pet to China
Meet our buddy Henry, who we helped relocate from Germany to China.
Traveling with your pet to China requires careful planning and adherence to strict import regulations. Whether you’re relocating, taking an extended vacation, or adopting a new furry friend, understanding China’s pet travel requirements is essential for a stress-free experience.
This guide covers the basics of what you need to know about bringing your pet to China, including microchipping, vaccinations, health certificates, and breed restrictions.
Key Requirements for Bringing Pets to China
Microchip Identification
Your pet must be microchipped with either an ISO-compliant 15-digit microchip or an AVID 9-digit chip. The microchip must be implanted before any rabies vaccination is administered.
Tip: Always scan your pet’s microchip during vet visits to ensure it’s functional, readable, and matches all records.
Rabies Vaccination
Your pet’s rabies vaccination must be at least 30 days old and valid within 12 months before entering China. Depending on your country of origin, a second rabies vaccination may be required. If so, it must be administered 30 days after the first vaccination.
Rabies Titre Test
A blood sample must be taken after the second rabies vaccination. This can be done on the same day but must follow the administration of the vaccine.
Veterinary Health Certificate for Export
A government-accredited veterinarian must examine your pet and complete the official veterinary health certificate for export to China within 7–10 days before travel.
International Fit to Fly Certificate
An accredited veterinarian must examine your pet and issue a Fit to Fly Certificate within 7–10 days of your pet’s scheduled departure.
Other Country-Specific Regulations
- One Pet Per Passport: China allows only one pet per human passport. If you’re traveling with more than one pet, multiple passports will be required.
- Owner Arrival: You must arrive in China before your pet. Your original passport is needed to clear your pet through customs.
- Customs Clearance: Customs processing time varies by country of origin. For example:
- From Australia: may take 10–12 hours
- From the USA: may take 4–6 hours
- From Australia: may take 10–12 hours
Note: Regulations are subject to change. WorldCare Pet Transport’s Pet Relocation Counselors are here to help you stay up-to-date with the latest pet travel requirements.
Restricted Dog Breeds in China
China does not have a nationwide ban on dog breeds, but certain cities like Beijing, Chengdu, and Shanghai may restrict larger or specific breeds.
Breeds that may face restrictions include:
Tibetan Mastiff, Mastiff, Staffordshire Terrier, Akita, Dogo Argentino, German Shepherd, Chinese Chongqing Dog, Borzoi, Bull Terrier, Newfoundland, Cane Corso, Central Asian Shepherd Dog, Great Dane, Dogue de Bordeaux, Neapolitan Mastiff, Fila Brasileiro, Pit Bull Terrier, Irish Wolfhound, Caucasian Shepherd Dog, Kunming Wolfdog, and Chinese Rural Dog.
Meet our buddy Dimitri, who we helped relocate from Germany to China as well.
Additional Travel Considerations
Carry Original Documents:
Bring all original health records, as they serve as your pet’s “passport” during travel.
Recommended (but Not Required) Vaccinations
For Dogs:
- DHPP+L (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza, Leptospirosis)
- Bordetella (kennel cough) – within the last 6 months
For Cats:
- FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia)
Check Airline Requirements
Airlines may have their own pet travel rules, including crate size, temperature restrictions, and paperwork requirements. Always confirm with your airline in advance.
Customer Experience: Moving a Pet to China
Our buddy Boots made the journey from the UK to China! Here’s what her family shared about their experience:
“Excellent service, the support made the whole process easy and really helped ease concerns over my pet’s welfare. I think it really helps when the service agent so clearly loves and cares for animals—it made me confident mine would be cared for just as well on their journey to a new country. Thank you!”
— R.J., UK to China
Final Thoughts
By following these guidelines and preparing a couple of months in advance, you can ensure a smooth entry into China with your pet. If you’re unsure about any step, working with a professional pet transport company can reduce stress and ensure compliance.
For expert and caring assistance in relocating your pet to China, WorldCare Pet is here to help!