Table of Contents
Relocating or traveling to Vietnam with your furry friend? Here is everything you need to know about pet import regulations in 2026 to avoid quarantine.
Can I Bring My Pet to Vietnam?
Yes! Vietnam is generally a pet-friendly country for importation. Unlike countries with strict quarantine laws (like Australia or Singapore), if you follow the correct procedures, your dog or cat can bypass quarantine and go straight home with you from the airport.
Core Requirements for 2026
To bring a dog or cat into Vietnam, you must prepare three crucial documents:
- **1. ISO-Compliant Microchip:** While not always strictly enforced by Vietnamese customs, a 15-digit ISO microchip is essentially required for international travel and to verify the pet's identity on health records.
- **2. Rabies Vaccination Certificate:** Your pet must be vaccinated against rabies. The vaccine must be administered *at least 30 days* but *no more than 12 months* before your arrival date in Vietnam.
- **3. Veterinary Health Certificate:** You need an official health certificate issued by a competent veterinary authority in your home country (e.g., USDA in the USA, DEFRA in the UK). This certificate is usually only valid for 7 to 10 days before your flight.
Do I Need an Import Permit?
If you are bringing **1 or 2 personal pets**, you generally do NOT need a formal import permit. However, if you are bringing **3 or more animals**, you are required to apply for a commercial import permit from the Department of Animal Health (DAH) under the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development at least 2 weeks before travel.
The Arrival Process
Upon landing at a major international airport (like Noi Bai in Hanoi or Tan Son Nhat in Ho Chi Minh City), you will collect your pet at the oversized baggage area or the cargo terminal. You must then present your pet and all original documents (health certificate, vaccination book, and your passport) to the quarantine officer on duty.
Always carry the original documents in your hand luggage. Never put them in your checked baggage. If your documents are incomplete or invalid, your pet may be quarantined at your expense or denied entry.