Published on June 5, 2025
Last updated:
Although Hawaii is part of the United States, it is the only rabies-free state, which means it has unique and strict pet import requirements. To ensure you relocate your cat or dog to the islands safely and smoothly, we’ve created this simplified guide.
This article provides a basic overview. For a more detailed explanation of the process, please visit the Hawaii Department of Agriculture’s official pet import page.
Timeline for Pet Relocation to Hawaii
The entire process can take 4-6 months when moving from the mainland. It’s essential to leave yourself plenty of time to meet all veterinary and documentation requirements.
Important Tip
Always keep your pet’s original health documents with them during travel. Think of these as their “passport” which is vital for inspection and clearance.
Key Requirements to Move Your Pet to Hawaii
Microchip
Your pet must have a 15-digit ISO-compliant microchip implanted before the first rabies vaccination. This microchip must be readable at the time of inspection.
Tip: Have your vet scan the microchip at every visit to ensure it is functional and matches all veterinary records.
Rabies Vaccinations
Hawaii requires two rabies vaccinations:
- Rabies Vaccine #1: primary shot
- Rabies Vaccine #2: Given at least 30 days after the first and within the validity period of the first vaccine
- At the time of arrival in Hawaii, the second rabies vaccine must be older than 30 days and still valid
General Vaccinations (Recommended, Not Required)
We strongly encourage your pet to receive the following vaccinations for their safety and well-being:
For Dogs:
- DHPP+L (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza & Leptospirosis)
- Bordetella (Kennel Cough – within the past 6 months)
For Cats:
- FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia)
Rabies Titer Test (FAVN Test)
After Rabies Vaccine #2, a blood sample must be sent to an approved lab to test for rabies antibodies.
- Must be completed at least 30 days before arrival in Hawaii and no more than 36 months prior
- Approved labs include: Auburn University, Kansas State University, University of Missouri, and the DoD Food Analysis & Diagnostic Laboratory
Note: It can take 4–6+ weeks to receive titer test results.
Parasite Treatments
Your pet must be treated for:
- Internal parasites (e.g., nematodes, cestodes)
- External parasites (fleas and ticks)
Treatment must occur within 14 days before arrival in Hawaii. Click here for a list of approved parasite treatments
Dog and Cat Import Form
This form must be submitted and acknowledged by the Hawaii Department of Agriculture at least 10 days before your pet’s arrival.
Working with WorldCare Pet? Your dedicated pet relocation counselor can assist you in filing this paperwork correctly to avoid delays or quarantine.
Hawaiian Health Certificate
Your pet must receive a Hawaiin health certificate from a licensed veterinarian within 14 days of travel.
What Happens If Requirements Aren’t Met
Hawaii law requires every dog and cat entering the state to go through one of three quarantine tracks, based on how completely the requirements above are met before arrival:
- Direct Airport Release — for pets who meet every requirement on time. The pet is inspected and released the same day, with no separate holding period.
- 5-Day-Or-Less Program — for pets who meet most, but not all, requirements (for example, paperwork arriving after the 10-day deadline). The pet is held at the quarantine facility for a short stay before release.
- 120-Day Quarantine — for pets who don’t meet the requirements above. The pet is held at the state’s Animal Quarantine Station for up to 120 days.
Each track carries its own fee, paid directly to the Hawaii Department of Agriculture, in addition to any relocation costs. Starting the process early is what allows a pet to qualify for the fastest track, since several of the requirements above (the 30-day waiting period after the second rabies shot, the titer test turnaround) have fixed timelines that can’t be compressed.
Prohibited and Restricted Animals
Hawaii’s import rules cover domestic dogs and cats only. Non-domestic hybrids, including wolf-dogs, Dingoes, Bengal cats, and Savannah cats, are prohibited entirely, regardless of how many generations removed from their wild ancestry or what documentation a breeder provides. If you’re not sure whether your pet falls into one of these categories, check with your pet relocation counselor before starting any part of the process above; there’s no permit or workaround that allows entry for a prohibited hybrid.
FAQ: Moving with Pets to Hawaii
Can my pet be sedated for the flight?
Sedation is strongly discouraged, as its effects at altitude can be harmful.
How long does airport clearance take in Honolulu?
AQS clearance can take 3–5 hours. If working with WorldCare Pet, we’ll keep you updated and let you know when your pet is released.
Does this process work the same way for neighbor island airports?
Direct Airport Release currently applies at Honolulu International Airport. If you’re flying into Kahului, Kona, Lihue, or Hilo, ask your relocation counselor to confirm how clearance works for that specific airport, since the process can differ from Oahu.
Is there a residency requirement for pets entering Hawaii?
Yes. Your pet must have lived in the continental U.S. for at least 6 months (or since birth). Pets under 4 months old are not permitted.
Does my housing in Hawaii allow pets?
Check with your relocation company or housing provider to confirm pet acceptance before arrival.
Is flea and tick prevention required?
While not legally required, ongoing parasite prevention is strongly recommended during your pet’s stay in Hawaii.
Is dog registration required?
Yes. All dogs must be registered after arriving in Hawaii. Visit: Hawaii Dog Registration
Does Hawaii treat rabies differently than the mainland U.S.?
Yes. Hawaii is rabies-free and has stricter protocols. This matters if you plan to travel from Hawaii to the mainland or to another country with your pet.
How Old Should My Puppy or Kitten Be Before the Move?
Because the microchip has to go in before any rabies vaccinations count, the second rabies shot has to come at least 30 days after the first, and the titer test can only happen after that second shot (plus its own 30-day wait and multi-week lab turnaround), a newborn puppy or kitten will typically be about 6 months old by the time all 5-Day-Or-Less program requirements are met. Puppies and kittens who aren’t able to complete the requirements in time face the full 120-day quarantine. If you’re planning a move date around a new puppy or kitten, it’s worth mapping the paperwork timeline backward from your travel date rather than forward from their adoption date.
Real Journey: Pennsylvania to Hawaii
Our buddy Harley made the move from Pennsylvania to Hawaii. Here’s what his family had to say:
“My dog Harley is very anxious and sensitive, and he came through a flight from JFK to Honolulu like a champ.The level of service and care given by your pet service helped ease our fears and really came through for Harley!”
— Giannascoli Family, PA to HI
Final Checklist for Moving Your Pet to Hawaii
- Microchip is ISO-compliant and readable
- Two valid rabies vaccinations completed in the correct timeframe
- Rabies titer test performed and passed
- Internal & external parasite treatment administered within 14 days
- Dog & Cat Import Form submitted and confirmed 10+ days before arrival
- Hawaiian Health Certificate completed by your vet within 14 days of travel
- All original veterinary records traveling with your pet
- Housing in Hawaii confirmed to be pet-friendly
- Dog registration arranged (post-arrival)
- Do not sedate your pet
WorldCare Pet Is Here to Help!
Moving your pet to Hawaii involves a lot of steps, but you don’t have to do it alone. WorldCare Pet has years of experience relocating pets safely and successfully.
Request a free quote and a member of our team will reach out to you shortly.
Moving your pet across the world just got less stressful. Valerie Neyra, Marketing Coordinator at WorldCare Pet and devoted cat mom to Lucky, creates the guides, tools, and resources pet parents need to navigate domestic and international pet transport with confidence. Her mission? Making sure no pet owner feels alone during a global move.