If you are planning to move to Turkey with your pet, you need to know about the rules and regulations related to pet importation in the country. In this article, we will provide information on the process of importing pets into Turkey, including the types of pets allowed, vaccination requirements, application procedures, quarantine rules, international travel schemes, licensing requirements, and relevant government websites.
Types of Pets Allowed in Turkey
Turkey allows the importation of dogs, cats, and birds for non-commercial purposes. If you plan to bring a different type of pet into Turkey, you will need to contact the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry for approval.
Vaccination Requirements
To import your pet into Turkey, you need to ensure that your pet is up to date with the required vaccinations. Dogs and cats must be vaccinated against rabies at least 30 days before entering Turkey. The rabies vaccine should be administered no earlier than 3 months before the travel date and no later than 1 year before the travel date. Birds are not required to be vaccinated.
Application Procedure
To import a pet into Turkey, you need to obtain an import permit from the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry. The application can be submitted in person or by email. You will need to provide the following documents:
- A copy of your passport
- A copy of your pet’s vaccination certificate
- A health certificate issued by a veterinarian
- A pet ownership certificate (if applicable)
Once your application is approved, you will receive an import permit, which you must present to customs officials upon arrival in Turkey.
Quarantine Rules
There is no mandatory quarantine period for pets imported into Turkey, as long as all the required documents are in order and the pet meets the vaccination requirements.
International Travel Schemes
Turkey is a member of the European Union’s Pet Travel Scheme, which allows pet owners to bring their pets into the EU from certain non-EU countries without the need for quarantine. To qualify for this scheme, pets must be microchipped, vaccinated against rabies, and have a pet passport or official veterinary certificate.
Licensing Requirements
Pet owners in Turkey are required to register their pets with the local authorities. The registration process varies depending on the city or town, so it is recommended to contact the local municipality for information on the specific requirements.
Government Websites
The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry website provides useful information on the importation of pets into Turkey, including the application process and vaccination requirements. The website is available in Turkish and English: http://www.tarimorman.gov.tr/
Importing your pet into Turkey requires proper planning and preparation to ensure compliance with the country’s regulations. Knowing the types of pets allowed, vaccination requirements, application procedures, quarantine rules, international travel schemes, licensing requirements, and relevant government websites can help make the process smoother and less stressful.