For many people their pet may be their best friend. Therefore it is not uncommon for people to wonder what the rules and regulations are with regard to bringing pets into South Africa. The good news is “yes” bringing pets into South Africa is an option, provided you meet all the regulations and requirements.
Today we will be providing you with some valuable information with regard to bringing pets into South Africa.
Does my dog or cat need to be micro chipped?
The answer is yes; all dogs and cats which enter South Africa need to be micro chipped with a 15 digit ISO pet microchip. This is a vital rule which needs to be abided by should you wish to successfully bring your pet into the country.
Do I need an import permit?
The answer is yes, when it comes to bringing pets into South Africa, an application for import is required. Unless your dog or cat is entering from another SADC member (Angola, Botwsana, Republic of Congo, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Swaziland, Tanzania, Zambia or Zimbabwe), an application for import is required with the Director of Animal Health.
How do I plan to bring a pet into South Africa?
The golden rule is to plan well in advance. Be sure to apply ahead of time for your permit in order to bring your pet into South Africa. Following receipt of the completed Import Application form, a Veterinary Import Permit will be issued and sent directly to you.
What are the rules with regard to vaccinations?
A rabies vaccination needs to be administered no less than 30 days and no more than 12 months prior to entering. This needs to be administrated after the microchip is implanted.
What are the quarantine periods for bringing pets into South Africa?
Depending on the countries your pets are coming from, the rules generally works as follows:
- Dogs are subjected to a minimum of 14 days in quarantine.
- Cats who are accompanied by a properly completed import permit and veterinary health certificate will not be subject to quarantine.
What about kittens and puppies?
Kittens and puppies under three months of age don’t need to be vaccinated for rabies. It is important to understand that if your kitten or puppy is under three months of age, they can only travel to South Africa if the mother of the animal has been vaccinated for rabies more than 30 days prior and less than 12 month before the birth.
I have questions about South African immigration
If you have any questions, or need help with any of your immigration needs, please do not hesitate to contact us. One of our helpful immigration consultants will be able to assist you further.
You can reach us at +27 (0) 21 424 2460. Alternatively if you prefer for us to call you, then all you need do is a request a call back. It is as simple as that.
