Have you left your pet back at home? Here’s how to get your pet back to you!

By : Fazmina Samat

Relocating to a new country is an exciting adventure, but it can be daunting when you’re planning to bring along a beloved pet. Ensuring your furry friend travels safely and comfortably is a top priority. Bringing your pet to Qatar involves jumping through a series of hurdles to make sure a smooth transition.

Microchip identification

Every pet must be implanted with an ISO-Compliant microchip (ISO 11784 / 11785). Ensure the chip number is accurately recorded on all documents, including vaccination records. A certificate detailing the microchip information is also necessary.

Vaccination requirements

Rabies Vaccination – Makes sure your pet’s rabies vaccination is up-to-date and administered at least 30 days before entry into Qatar. Additionally, you’ll need a Rabies Serology Certificate to indicating your pet has passed the Rabies Neutralizing Antibody Titre Test (RNATT).

Dogs – All dogs must be vaccinated against DHLPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Leptospirosis, Parainfluenza, and Parvovirus)

Cats – Should be vaccinated with FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, and panleukopenia) or Fel O Vax.

 All vaccinations should be administered within the last 12 months or at least 30 days before arrival.

Obtain International Health Certificate

You will need to obtain an International Health Certificate of Good Health from your veterinarian. This certificate is also known as APHIS Form 7001 in the U.S. The certificate should be issued in English and needs to be certified by a government body, within 10 days of your departure.

Apply for Import permit from Qatar

You will be required to get an import permit from the Livestock Department at Qatar’s Ministry of Municipality and Environment (MME). The permit should be issued no more than 30 days before the arrival of the pet. Note that import permits are only available for pets over four months old.

How to apply for import permit

Online Application

Step 1 – Visit the Animal Certificate page on the MME website.

Step 1 : Visit the customer service office in the municipality or government services complex.

Step 2 – Enter your QID and mobile number

Step 2 – Provide original and copy of applicant’s QID

Step 3 – Complete the form and submit the application

Step 3 – Submit all required documents

Step 4 – System message will be sent to your registered email address

In person application

Step 4 – Sign the service terms and conditions.

Flying your pet to Qatar

Most airlines allow pets as checked baggage or air cargo, with one pet per person. Make sure the pet carriage / kennel meets International Air Transport Association (IATA) standards. Pets are allowed entry through Hamad International Airport. Confirm pet breed acceptance with your vet and airline in advance. Pay excess baggage fees at the airport check-in if your pet is travelling as checked baggage. If your pet is transported as cargo, the airline authorities will take care of the pet.

Bringing in other pet animals

If you’re brining birds, invertebrates, tropical fish, reptiles, and mammals such as rodents and rabbits to Qatar, rabies vaccination is not required. You’ll have to meet other requirements and should have a health certificate for entry. Pet owners are strongly advised to seek guidance from relevant authorities in both their home country and Qatar.  For exotic pets you need to verify that it is not protected under Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). You will be required to apply for additional permits if it’s the case.

---

Make sure to check out our social media to keep track of the latest content. 

Instagram - @qatarliving

X - @qatarliving

Facebook - Qatar Living

YouTube - qatarlivingofficial