🇦🇺 Pet travel to Australia: entry requirements (2026)
Bringing a pet to Australia 🇦🇺 is one of the strictest destinations. A rabies titer test and a long waiting period apply, so start early. Quarantine on arrival: 10 days. The essentials: ISO microchip, rabies vaccination, RNATT titer test, import permit and an official health certificate.
Microchip
Required — ISO 11784/11785
Rabies
Required
Titer test (RNATT)
Required
Quarantine
10 days
Import permit
Required
Cabin / cargo
Cargo only
Breed bans
Pit Bull Terrier, Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro, Japanese Tosa, Perro de Presa Canario
Authority
DAFF Australia — Cats & Dogs
Step-by-step requirements
- Implant an ISO 11784/11785 microchip first — it must be in place before the rabies shot to be valid.
- Get the rabies vaccination after the microchip.
- Do the RNATT rabies titer test at an approved lab. Free-status countries enforce a long wait — often up to 180 days — count backwards from your travel date.
- Apply for the import permit from the destination authority well in advance.
- Have your vet issue the health certificate: Import permit + RNATT rabies titer test + DAFF health certificate.
- Book travel — pets fly in cargo for this route. Confirm the airline's container rules.
By species
Official sources
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Frequently asked questions
Does the microchip have to come before the rabies shot?
Yes. For Australia the rabies vaccination only counts if the ISO 11784/11785 microchip was implanted first. Always chip, then vaccinate.
Is there quarantine in Australia?
Yes — about 10 days on arrival (shorter if every requirement is met in advance).
Can my pet fly in the cabin?
No — this route requires cargo transport.
How long does preparation take?
Start about 6–7 months ahead.
Are any dog breeds restricted?
Yes: Pit Bull Terrier, Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro, Japanese Tosa, Perro de Presa Canario.