Key Requirements for Importing a Pet to India

Before travelling, pet owners generally need to prepare the required health and travel documents for a pet import service in India. These may include vaccination records, veterinary health certificates and other documents required by the relevant authorities. The pet may also need to meet specific health and entry conditions. Airline rules can have additional requirements related to carriers, booking procedures and transportation.

On 19th December 2022 DGFT has issued a trade notice that provide for import of pet Animals. This guidelines includes import policy provision for other mammals including pet animal. According to this trade Notice, pet animals (mainly cats & dogs) cannot be freely imported and Import is subject to specific Policy Conditions (6), (7), and (8).

a. Policy condition (6) :-

• i. Import of wild animals (as per Wildlife Protection Act, 1972) is prohibited.
• ii. Animals listed under CITES must follow CITES rules.

b. policy Condition (7):- Accordingly policy condition 7, imports of Dogs allowed only for

• i. Pet dog with valid documents in importer’s name.
• ii. Research purposes (with CPCSEA recommendation).
• iii. Defence and Police internal security

c. Policy Condition (8):- According to policy condition 8 Import of commercial dogs for breeding or trade is NOT permitted.

Method of import:- As per the applicable guidelines for import of pet animals, pet animals may be imported either through

• a. Cargo or
• b. As passenger baggage

In case of permanent import, up to two pets (only cats and dogs) are allowed as passenger baggage without obtaining DGFT authorization, provided the person is transferring residence to India after a continuous stay abroad of more than two years

However, DGFT authorization becomes mandatory if the stay abroad is less than two years, if the pet is not being transported as passenger baggage, or if the case does not qualify under the baggage rules.

Where more than two pets are proposed to be imported, DGFT import authorization is compulsory and the application is examined along with supporting documents by the Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying (DAH&D)

In the case of temporary import of pet animals, DGFT authorization is required in all cases and the application is examined on the basis of justification and supporting documents by DAH&D.

Documents required for Pet import:-

For Permanent Import:

• a. Vaccination Book / Pet Passport
• b. Emotional Support Certificate (if applicable)
• c. Passport of the Pet

For Temporary Import:

• a. Vaccination Book / Pet Passport
• b. Emotional Support Certificate
• c. Passport of Pet
• d. Return ticket / expected return date
• e. Undertaking from local host/relative in India

Application process:-

• a. Apply online on the DGFT website
• b. Submit the application using your IEC (if available) or the Permanent IEC No. IIHIE0153E for personal imports.
• c. File the application at least 2 months prior to the proposed travel date.

Why Hire a Pet Import Consultant in India?

Handling an international pet relocation without professional guidance can become confusing. A pet import consultant in India can help you understand the required process and organize the documentation according to your pet's travel circumstances.

Professional assistance can be useful for:

• • Understanding applicable import requirements
• • Preparing and checking documentation
• • Coordinating with relevant authorities
• • Reviewing veterinary paperwork
• • Understanding travel and airline requirements
• • Reducing the risk of delays caused by incomplete documents

This guidance becomes especially valuable when you are travelling internationally for the first time with your pet.

How a Pet Import Service Provider Can Help

Choosing the right pet import service provider in India can simplify the coordination involved in your pet's relocation. Instead of managing every requirement separately, you can get professional assistance throughout the documentation and import process. A reliable service provider should understand the applicable regulations and clearly explain what documents and procedures are relevant to your case.

At Arrow Exim Consultants, the focus is on helping pet owners navigate the formalities involved in importing pets into India. The team can assist with understanding documentation and regulatory requirements so that owners can prepare properly before their pet's journey.

We can assist you comprehensively in obtaining the required import approval for pet animals by managing the entire process in a structured and compliant manner. Our services begin with a detailed eligibility assessment based on your travel status, number of pets, and purpose of import (permanent or temporary). We guide you on applicable DGFT provisions, baggage rules, and quarantine requirements to ensure full regulatory compliance.

We prepare and review all necessary documentation, including vaccination records, pet passport, health certificates, emotional support certificates (if applicable), and undertakings. Our team drafts and files the online application for Import Authorization through the DGFT portal using the appropriate IEC. We also coordinate with the Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying (DAH&D) wherever examination is required.

Further, we assist in obtaining the Advance NOC from the Animal Quarantine and Certification Services (AQCS) and provide continuous follow-up with authorities until approval is granted, ensuring a smooth and timely import process.

Plan Your Pet's Import Well in Advance

International pet relocation should not be treated as a last-minute task. Some documents and veterinary requirements may need to be completed before the travel date. Airline procedures can also require advance planning.

Start by confirming the current requirements for your pet and destination. Then prepare the necessary veterinary records and travel documents. Professional guidance can help you identify important steps before they become a problem.

Choose Professional Assistance for Pet Import

Bringing your pet to India should be a carefully planned process. From documentation to regulatory formalities, every step matters when preparing for international pet travel. If you are looking for a reliable pet import service in India, Arrow Exim Consultants can help you understand and manage the necessary import formalities. With professional guidance, pet owners can prepare their documents correctly and make the relocation process more organized.