Pet Import India
Pet Import In India
Sometimes a pet becomes part of the family and share a strong emotional bonding with their owner. We can see this is the common practice not in India but all over the world. However, the real challenge comes when a person wants to relocated their pet from outside India to India. Here we are going to discuss about in detail the entire procedure of pet import In India.
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.
- i. Pet dog with valid documents in importer’s name.
- ii. Research purposes (with CPCSEA recommendation).
- iii. Defence and Police internal security
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
- 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
- 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.
How can we assist you in obtaining the import approval?
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.