If you are planning to move to Hong Kong with your pet, it is important to know the rules and regulations regarding importing pets into the country. In this article, we will provide information on the restrictions, requirements, and procedures for bringing pets to Hong Kong.
Hong Kong’s Pet Importation Rules
Hong Kong allows the import of pets, but there are restrictions on the types of pets that can be brought into the country.
Restrictions on types of pets
According to the Hong Kong government, the import of certain types of pets is prohibited. These include all types of wild animals, such as snakes, lizards, and exotic birds. In addition, some dog breeds are considered dangerous and may be subject to additional regulations. If you are unsure about whether your pet is allowed in Hong Kong, you can contact the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) for more information.
Vaccination Requirements
Before bringing your pet to Hong Kong, it is mandatory that they have certain vaccinations to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
Required vaccinations
The following vaccinations are required for pets entering Hong Kong:
- Dogs: Rabies, distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, and leptospirosis.
- Cats: Rabies, feline calicivirus, feline herpesvirus type I, and feline panleukopenia.
It is important to ensure that your pet is up-to-date on all their vaccinations before traveling. You should obtain a vaccination certificate from your veterinarian, which should be presented to Hong Kong authorities upon arrival.
Importation Application Procedure in Hong Kong
If you are planning to bring your pet to Hong Kong, you must follow a specific application process. The process can be complicated, so it is important to start early and to ensure that you have all the necessary paperwork and documentation.
Required paperwork and other requirements
The following documents and requirements are necessary for importing a pet to Hong Kong:
A health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian in your home country, which confirms that your pet is healthy and free from any infectious diseases.
A certificate of vaccination against rabies, issued by a licensed veterinarian. The certificate should show that your pet has been vaccinated at least 30 days before arrival in Hong Kong, but not more than one year prior.
An electronic identification microchip implanted under your pet’s skin. The microchip should comply with ISO 11784/11785 standards and must be implanted before the rabies vaccination.
An import permit from the AFCD. To obtain this permit, you will need to provide the following documents:
A copy of your pet’s health certificate and rabies vaccination certificate.
A copy of your passport or other identification document.
Payment of the required fees.
Application process
To start the application process, you should contact the AFCD. After submitting the required documents and paying the fees, it may take up to 10 business days to process the import permit. It is important to note that the permit is only valid for four months from the date of issue, so make sure to plan your travel accordingly.
Quarantine Requirements
All pets entering Hong Kong are subject to a quarantine period. The length of the quarantine period depends on the country of origin and the vaccination status of your pet. For example, pets coming from a Category 1 country, which includes most developed countries, are subject to a 14-day quarantine period, while pets coming from a Category 2 country, which includes some developing countries, are subject to a 30-day quarantine period.
International Travel Scheme
Hong Kong is not part of the EU Pet Travel Scheme, but it does recognize the rabies vaccination certificate issued by other countries, as long as it meets certain requirements. This means that if you are traveling from a country with a valid rabies vaccination program, your pet may not need to undergo a blood test before entering Hong Kong.
Pet license requirements
In Hong Kong, pet owners are required to obtain a license for their pets. The license is issued by the AFCD and must be renewed annually. The license fee depends on the type of pet and its age.
To obtain a pet license, you will need to provide the following:
Proof of identity (such as your passport or Hong Kong ID).
Proof of ownership (such as a purchase receipt or adoption papers).
Proof of vaccination (such as a vaccination certificate).
Payment of the required fees.
It is important to note that failure to obtain a pet license can result in a fine or other penalties.
Relevant Government Websites
If you are planning to bring your pet to Hong Kong, the website of the AFCD is a useful resource for information on the requirements and procedures for importing pets. The website provides detailed information on the application process, required documents, and fees for importing pets to Hong Kong. You can also find contact information for the AFCD if you have any questions or concerns.
Link to the AFCD website:
Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department
Bringing your pet to Hong Kong requires careful planning and preparation, but with the right documentation and procedures, it is possible to make the journey safely and legally. It is important to follow the rules and regulations regarding the import of pets to avoid any delays or problems upon arrival. By obtaining the necessary paperwork, ensuring that your pet is up-to-date on all their vaccinations, and following the application process, you can make the transition to Hong Kong with your furry friend as smooth as possible.