Australia pet travel requirements

Microchip (ISO, 10 or 15 digits)

The cat or dog needs a working ISO-compatible microchip, generally 10 or 15 digits. Numbers beginning 999 and 9-digit AVID chips are not accepted. A government-approved veterinarian scans it at every preparation visit and before blood sampling; all documents must record the same number. If there are two compliant chips, both must be scanned and recorded.

Dogs / Cats

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Rabies vaccination from 84 days of age (group 3)

A government-approved veterinarian gives an approved rabies vaccine from 84 days of age. Cover must remain continuously valid from RNATT sampling through export. Manufacturer-approved three-year vaccines are accepted. A lapse requires revaccination, a new RNATT and a new ordinary waiting period.

Dogs / Cats · Origin group: Group 3 (rabies controlled): rabies preparation, permit, normally 30-day quarantine

Enter the actual manufacturer/veterinarian valid-until date. If it is missing, the report flags expiry as unconfirmed rather than assuming a fixed one-year duration.

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Rabies antibody (RNATT) test at a government-approved laboratory

A government-approved veterinarian scans the microchip and collects blood in an approved country for FAVN or RFFIT at a laboratory recognised by the exporting competent authority. The result must be at least 0.5 IU/ml. After a primary rabies course, allow 3–4 weeks before sampling; regularly vaccinated pets may be sampled sooner with veterinarian confirmation. Results are valid for 365 days from sampling.

Dogs / Cats · Origin group: Group 3 (rabies controlled): rabies preparation, permit, normally 30-day quarantine

A repeat RNATT received by the laboratory before the current result expires can preserve continuous protection and avoid a new wait, with a permit variation. The planner does not automatically prove an uninterrupted chain of earlier results; supply that evidence to DAFF.

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Complete the ordinary 180 days from RNATT laboratory receipt

For the ordinary group-3 route, complete at least 180 days in approved countries after the qualifying RNATT sample arrives at the laboratory. This is a residency period, not quarantine. An unbroken renewal chain or documented Australian pre-departure preparation may change which earlier result establishes eligibility; DAFF must confirm that evidence.

Dogs / Cats · Origin group: Group 3 (rabies controlled): rabies preparation, permit, normally 30-day quarantine · Entry pathway: Group 3: standard 30-day quarantine / Group 3: official identity verification, 10-day quarantine / Group 3: Australian export evidence, 10-day quarantine

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Group 2: official identity verification before preparation

A competent-authority official veterinarian verifies identity before other preparations, completes the country-specific declaration and sends it directly to DAFF. On the standard group-2 route, eligibility is 180 days after official identity verification. The declaration remains valid while the chip works and the animal stays in group-1/2 countries; a passport or vaccination card is not equivalent.

Dogs / Cats · Origin group: Group 2 (rabies-free): official identity check, permit, minimum 10-day quarantine · Entry pathway: Group 2: standard identity and 180-day preparation

The separately selectable young-animal and direct-return routes require specific supporting evidence and permit confirmation; they are not automatic age exemptions.

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Obtain the BICON import permit before export

Apply through BICON and pay the assessment fee. Most permits take 20–40 business days and can take up to 123; there is no expedited service. A group-2 permit is valid for 12 months from issue; group-3 validity follows the RNATT expiry. Read the issued permit: it sets the binding individual conditions. It must be valid when the pet arrives.

Dogs / Cats · Origin group: Group 2 (rabies-free): official identity check, permit, minimum 10-day quarantine / Group 3 (rabies controlled): rabies preparation, permit, normally 30-day quarantine

Processing times are planning guidance, not a required fixed waiting period or a promise of approval. Current charges must be checked in BICON; no stale fee amount is assumed.

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Final veterinary examination within five days before export

A government-approved or official government veterinarian scans the microchip and checks for external parasites and clinical signs of infectious or contagious disease within five days before export. The animal must be fit for travel and quarantine; it must not be under quarantine restrictions, nursing young or more than 30 days pregnant. The second internal parasite treatment may be given at this same visit.

Dogs / Cats · Origin group: Group 2 (rabies-free): official identity check, permit, minimum 10-day quarantine / Group 3 (rabies controlled): rabies preparation, permit, normally 30-day quarantine

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Official endorsement within five days before export

Get the current country-specific veterinary health certificate from the exporting competent authority. After the final examination and second internal parasite treatment, have the official government veterinarian endorse the certificate and required reports within five days before export. Send the valid permit, endorsed certificate, required laboratory/vaccine records and group-3 RNATT declaration with the pet. Follow country-specific endorsement arrangements: US APHIS accepts VEHCS electronic signature/digital endorsement and a printed endorsed certificate travels with the pet.

Dogs / Cats · Origin group: Group 2 (rabies-free): official identity check, permit, minimum 10-day quarantine / Group 3 (rabies controlled): rabies preparation, permit, normally 30-day quarantine

Current group-3 DAFF prose says wet-ink stamps and first-page permit endorsement; the current US APHIS procedure accepts secure digital endorsement. Confirm the permit and exporting competent authority requirements rather than treating those generic formats as interchangeable.

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Live 180 consecutive days in a listed country first (unlisted origin)

A pet from an unlisted country (such as mainland China) can't be imported directly. Move it to a listed country and keep it there for at least 180 consecutive days immediately before export, doing every vaccination and test there, then follow that country's group rules.

Dogs / Cats · Origin group: Not on the list: live 180 days in a listed country first

We can't model the interim country's own import and quarantine (for example Hong Kong's); treat these dates as a lower bound.

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Oct 26, 2026

Leishmania infantum blood test

A government-approved veterinarian scans the microchip and collects blood within 45 days before export. An approved laboratory must report a negative Leishmania infantum result by standard quantitative IFAT or ELISA; rapid/snap versions are not accepted. Record the chip, collection date, method and result and take the report for official endorsement.

Dogs · Origin group: Group 2 (rabies-free): official identity check, permit, minimum 10-day quarantine / Group 3 (rabies controlled): rabies preparation, permit, normally 30-day quarantine

A positive result does not qualify for import; contact DAFF for case-specific advice.

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Confirm the Leptospira Canicola vaccination or test route

Choose one qualifying route with the veterinarian: a completed Leptospira interrogans serovar Canicola vaccination course with valid continuing cover, or a negative MAT blood test within 45 days before export. A primary course must be completed at least 14 days before export; a regular booster is given between 12 months and 14 days before export, per the registered product directions. The usual primary course is two doses 2–4 weeks apart, but the actual manufacturer interval governs. Group-2 guidance says vaccinated/in-progress dogs must not use MAT and a positive MAT cannot be overridden by switching to vaccination. Australian leptospirosis vaccines do not cover Canicola.

Dogs · Origin group: Group 2 (rabies-free): official identity check, permit, minimum 10-day quarantine / Group 3 (rabies controlled): rabies preparation, permit, normally 30-day quarantine

This planner does not collect the Canicola vaccine course or product. This milestone requires the certifying veterinarian to select and date the applicable route; it is not an instruction to do both. A positive MAT does not qualify for import.

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Confirm desexing evidence or arrange Brucella canis testing

Confirm acceptable desexing evidence (bilateral ovariectomy/ovariohysterectomy for females or bilateral orchiectomy for males), or obtain a negative Brucella canis test on blood collected within 45 days before export. Only standard RSAT, TAT (also called SAT) or IFAT is accepted. For an intact dog, stop mating/artificial insemination at least 21 days before sampling, then do not mate/inseminate again until export. A pregnant dog must be no more than 30 days pregnant at export.

Dogs · Origin group: Group 2 (rabies-free): official identity check, permit, minimum 10-day quarantine / Group 3 (rabies controlled): rabies preparation, permit, normally 30-day quarantine

Desexing is not collected by this planner, so a test is not imposed automatically on every dog. The official veterinarian must verify the exemption or the test and mating dates. A positive test does not qualify for import.

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Complete required canine influenza vaccination

Dogs exported from the United States, South Korea, Hawaii or Singapore require a registered canine-influenza vaccine effective against the strains where the dog has lived. Complete a primary course according to the manufacturer at least 14 days before export. For a regularly vaccinated dog, the booster must be between 12 months and 14 days before export and cover must remain valid at export. Do not replace product-specific dose intervals with a guessed fixed interval.

Dogs · Origin group: Group 2 (rabies-free): official identity check, permit, minimum 10-day quarantine / Group 3 (rabies controlled): rabies preparation, permit, normally 30-day quarantine · Departure countries/regions: US, KR, US-HI, SG

The vaccine product, course and valid-until date must be checked by the veterinarian. Guam is not included in the Hawaii/Singapore vaccination requirement.

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Start and maintain veterinarian-administered external parasite protection

A government-approved veterinarian starts an acceptable contact-killing flea/tick product at least 30 days before export for dogs or 21 days for cats. Repeat according to the shortest applicable manufacturer interval to maintain continuous protection until export. At each preparation visit scan the chip and examine for parasites. If fleas/ticks are found, remove them and restart preparation. Owners cannot substitute their own applications for the required veterinarian-administered records.

Dogs / Cats · Origin group: Group 2 (rabies-free): official identity check, permit, minimum 10-day quarantine / Group 3 (rabies controlled): rabies preparation, permit, normally 30-day quarantine

This step dates the start; repeat appointments depend on the actual product. The veterinarian must record them and maintain protection through export.

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

First internal parasite treatment

A government-approved veterinarian administers the first of two treatments effective against nematodes and cestodes. Both treatments must be within 45 days before export and at least 14 days apart, according to product directions; the second is within five days before export. Record product, active ingredient, dose and date.

Dogs / Cats · Origin group: Group 2 (rabies-free): official identity check, permit, minimum 10-day quarantine / Group 3 (rabies controlled): rabies preparation, permit, normally 30-day quarantine

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Second internal parasite treatment

A government-approved veterinarian gives the second nematode/cestode treatment at least 14 days after the first and within five days before export, recording product, active ingredient, dose and date on the certificate. The same visit may include the final clinical examination.

Dogs / Cats · Origin group: Group 2 (rabies-free): official identity check, permit, minimum 10-day quarantine / Group 3 (rabies controlled): rabies preparation, permit, normally 30-day quarantine

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Babesia canis rossi treatment after mainland-Africa residence

If the dog has ever visited mainland Africa, a government-approved veterinarian gives imidocarb dipropionate within 28 days before export. DAFF permits one 7.5 mg/kg subcutaneous dose or two 6.0 mg/kg subcutaneous doses 14 days apart. The veterinarian selects and records the regimen.

Dogs · Origin group: Group 2 (rabies-free): official identity check, permit, minimum 10-day quarantine / Group 3 (rabies controlled): rabies preparation, permit, normally 30-day quarantine · Departure or recent travel history includes: DZ, AO, BJ, BW, BF, BI, CM, CF, TD, CG, CD, DJ, EG, GQ, ER, SZ, ET, GA, GM, GH, GN, GW, CI, KE, LS, LR, LY, MW, ML, MR, MA, MZ, NA, NE, NG, RW, SN, SL, SO, ZA, SS, SD, TZ, TG, TN, UG, ZM, ZW, EH

The requirement covers any lifetime mainland-Africa visit; this branch can see only the supplied origin/travel history. Disclose older visits. A chosen two-dose regimen needs two appointments 14 days apart within the 28-day window; this milestone does not automatically choose or duplicate a regimen.

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Record when the laboratory received the RNATT sample

Use the receipt date on the laboratory report, not an assumed delivery interval after blood sampling. The ordinary Australian 180-day residency/wait starts when the sample reaches the laboratory. Until this actual date is entered, any computed earliest date is only a theoretical lower bound and must not be used to book travel.

Dogs / Cats · Origin group: Group 3 (rabies controlled): rabies preparation, permit, normally 30-day quarantine

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Optional official identity verification for 10-day group-3 quarantine

Have identity verified by an official government veterinarian before other preparations, at least 180 days before export and before RNATT blood is taken. The identity visit must be separate from the RNATT visit. The official veterinarian supplies the declaration directly to DAFF. A passport, vaccination card or ordinary chip certificate is insufficient.

Dogs / Cats · Origin group: Group 3 (rabies controlled): rabies preparation, permit, normally 30-day quarantine · Entry pathway: Group 3: official identity verification, 10-day quarantine

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Get the official country-specific RNATT declaration

An official government veterinarian completes, signs and stamps the negotiated RNATT declaration using the vaccination certificate and laboratory report. The chip, result and blood-sample date must agree exactly, and the declaration must identify the testing laboratory. Obtain this before applying for the import permit.

Dogs / Cats · Origin group: Group 3 (rabies controlled): rabies preparation, permit, normally 30-day quarantine

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Book Mickleham quarantine and compliant travel after permit issue

After the import permit is issued, reserve the Mickleham stay and arrange manifested air cargo directly to Melbourne International Airport. Do not book arrival in another Australian city followed by a domestic transfer. Group-2 aircraft changes are limited to group-1/2 countries or Amsterdam, Frankfurt, Copenhagen, London, Dubai or Hong Kong; group-3 aircraft changes must be in an approved country. Keep the pet airside under competent-authority supervision, separated from other animals. Transit without unloading may occur in other countries.

Dogs / Cats · Origin group: Group 2 (rabies-free): official identity check, permit, minimum 10-day quarantine / Group 3 (rabies controlled): rabies preparation, permit, normally 30-day quarantine

Confirm the connection authority accepts the animal and has suitable holding facilities before committing to a route. A transport agent is recommended, not mandatory.

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Seal the group-2 crate and retain the official seal record

The official government veterinarian supplies the crate seal and records its number on the health certificate. Seal the animal into its compliant crate at export and keep the seal intact until arrival. If exceptional circumstances require opening it, an official government veterinarian, airport authority or aircraft captain must reseal it. Follow the permit instructions for recording any change.

Dogs / Cats · Origin group: Group 2 (rabies-free): official identity check, permit, minimum 10-day quarantine

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Canada: verify CIV vaccination or isolation/testing alternative

For a dog exported from Canada, meet the CIV vaccination route or the alternative: isolate from other dogs for the 10 days immediately before export (except dogs in the same export shipment); collect a nasal/deep-pharyngeal swab within seven days before export for a negative CIV PCR; and have the dog examined within 48 hours before export with no clinical signs. The government-approved veterinarian must certify the prescribed owner/exporter isolation declaration. A vaccination route must satisfy the manufacturer and DAFF permit timing.

Dogs · Origin group: Group 3 (rabies controlled): rabies preparation, permit, normally 30-day quarantine · Departure countries/regions: CA

These are alternatives, not a requirement to vaccinate and isolate/test. This planner does not automatically select this independent health route; the official veterinarian must confirm the chosen dated course.

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Verify official identity, under-six-month application and DAFF waiver

Before using this young-animal route, obtain the official identity declaration completed before any preparations, proof that the import permit was lodged before the six-month birthday, and DAFF confirmation in the issued permit that the usual 180-day lead time does not apply. Verify group-1/2 residence since birth. An animal merely being under six months at export is not sufficient; a properly lodged young application can be relevant even if export is later.

Dogs / Cats · Origin group: Group 2 (rabies-free): official identity check, permit, minimum 10-day quarantine · Entry pathway: Group 2: DAFF-confirmed young-animal permit waiver

MANDATORY EVIDENCE CHECK: selecting this pathway does not complete the official identity check, lodge a permit, or prove a waiver. Do not book until the competent authority and DAFF have confirmed the evidence and permit.

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Verify Australian export certificate, chip and return-country evidence

Supply the Australian-issued export health certificate or reference number and prove the functioning microchip matches all preparations. For group 2, establish a direct return from the same country to which Australia originally exported the animal; further country visits can remove the exemption and require a new identity check and 180-day residence. For group 3, this evidence supports the reduced-quarantine identity route, but the normal rabies wait remains unless the separate pre-prepared-return evidence is met.

Dogs / Cats · Origin group: Group 2 (rabies-free): official identity check, permit, minimum 10-day quarantine / Group 3 (rabies controlled): rabies preparation, permit, normally 30-day quarantine · Entry pathway: Group 2: documented direct return from the same country / Group 3: Australian export evidence, 10-day quarantine / Group 3: return with Australian pre-departure rabies preparation

MANDATORY EVIDENCE CHECK: selecting a returning pathway does not prove Australian origin, direct-return residence or eligibility. The issued permit and original records must be checked before booking.

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Verify ACDP pre-departure result and uninterrupted rabies protection

Before omitting a new 180-day wait, prove rabies vaccination and a passing ACDP RNATT (at least 0.5 IU/ml) completed in Australia before the pet originally left, together with its Australian export evidence. Verify uninterrupted manufacturer-valid vaccination and RNATT protection overseas, with every subsequent laboratory report and official RNATT declaration. If a vaccine or RNATT lapsed, this exception does not apply: use the normal group-3 wait. Preparations outside Australia must be in approved countries.

Dogs / Cats · Origin group: Group 3 (rabies controlled): rabies preparation, permit, normally 30-day quarantine · Entry pathway: Group 3: return with Australian pre-departure rabies preparation

MANDATORY EVIDENCE CHECK: the planner does not infer historical ACDP preparation or continuity from pathway selection. No booking is justified until the exporting authority and DAFF accept these records and the issued permit. A trip shorter than 45 days is not an automatic additional waiver.

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Verify approved-country residence and individual permit conditions

Confirm the residence required for the selected route with the competent authority. Group 2 requires group-1/2 residence since birth, since direct Australian export, or for 180 days after official identity verification immediately before export. Ordinary group 3 requires approved-country residence from qualifying RNATT laboratory receipt through the 180-day period. A country list or recent-history field alone does not prove this continuous residence. All individual permit conditions still govern.

Dogs / Cats · Origin group: Group 2 (rabies-free): official identity check, permit, minimum 10-day quarantine / Group 3 (rabies controlled): rabies preparation, permit, normally 30-day quarantine

Returning Australian trips under 45 days may receive individually adjusted permit conditions. No test, treatment or quarantine exemption is automatic solely because the trip is short.

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Young group-2 pet: official identity check before all preparation

An official government veterinarian must verify identity, complete the country-specific declaration and send it directly to DAFF before the import preparations start. This remains mandatory for pets under six months. The young-animal pathway removes the ordinary 180-day lead time only after the early permit application and DAFF waiver are proved.

Dogs / Cats · Origin group: Group 2 (rabies-free): official identity check, permit, minimum 10-day quarantine · Entry pathway: Group 2: DAFF-confirmed young-animal permit waiver

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Verify the group-1 residence and eligibility declarations

Prove the pet has lived only in New Zealand since birth or direct import from Australia, or has lived continuously in New Zealand for at least the 180 days immediately before export if it has lived elsewhere. Ask NZ MPI which certificate applies. This is residence, not quarantine. Under the current NZ operative OMAR, an imported animal's qualifying residence begins on the first full calendar day after release from post-arrival quarantine; do not count NZ arrival or quarantine days toward the 180 days.

Dogs / Cats · Departure countries/regions: NZ

Country classification and recent trip history alone do not prove continuous residence or complete lifetime history. Verify the dated evidence with the preparing authority before booking.

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI), New Zealand · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI), New Zealand · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Arrange the authorised preparing official

All required preparations must be completed in New Zealand by a veterinarian employed by an NZ MPI-listed veterinary practice (or an NZ MPI official veterinarian where required). Contact the responsible local authority before starting; an ordinary clinic or owner-administered treatment is not automatically accepted. Use a functioning ISO-compatible microchip, normally 10 or 15 digits, never starting 999; scan and record every compliant chip at each visit and match the certificate.

Dogs / Cats · Departure countries/regions: NZ

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Topical external parasite treatment within five days

In New Zealand, a veterinarian employed by an NZ MPI-listed veterinary practice (or an NZ MPI official veterinarian where required) must administer a compliant topical treatment that kills ticks and fleas on contact within five days before export. Maintain protection until export and repeat per the shortest manufacturer interval if needed. Recheck for parasites at subsequent visits; remove any found parasites and restart preparation. Oral treatments do not generally meet these conditions.

Dogs / Cats · Departure countries/regions: NZ

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Internal parasite treatment within five days

In New Zealand, a veterinarian employed by an NZ MPI-listed veterinary practice (or an NZ MPI official veterinarian where required) must administer a compliant product effective against nematodes and cestodes within five days before export, recording the treatment on the certificate.

Dogs / Cats · Departure countries/regions: NZ

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Final health examination within five days before export

In New Zealand, a veterinarian employed by an NZ MPI-listed veterinary practice (or an NZ MPI official veterinarian where required) examines the pet within five days before export and certifies it is free of ticks/external parasites and clinical signs of infectious or contagious disease, treated for internal and external parasites, and fit to travel. It must not be under quarantine restrictions, nursing young, or more than 40 days pregnant. The examination and both treatments may be at the same visit. Scan the chip before the examination. It must already be at least eight weeks old on this visit. Known clinical conditions need a comprehensive fitness assessment; any deterioration before departure requires re-examination.

Dogs / Cats · Departure countries/regions: NZ

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI), New Zealand · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI), New Zealand · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Choose AUPET9 or AUPETOA9 with NZ MPI

NZ MPI determines the certificate: AUPET9 is a unique pre-printed numbered certificate issued by a veterinarian at an MPI-listed practice; AUPETOA9 is an official assurance issued by an NZ MPI official veterinarian. If the pet does not meet every AUPET9 criterion, obtain official assurance. Standard-compliant dogs/cats do not require an Australian import permit or mandatory post-entry quarantine.

Dogs / Cats · Departure countries/regions: NZ

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI), New Zealand · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI), New Zealand · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Complete the exporter and, if required, owner declarations

For AUPET9, declare identity, qualifying NZ residence, no prohibited hybrid/banned breed, no quarantine restriction, pregnancy/nursing status, and any mainland-Africa history for a dog. If the exporter is not the owner (including a transport agent), the owner must also provide a statutory declaration witnessed by a Justice of the Peace.

Dogs / Cats · Departure countries/regions: NZ

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Obtain the original NZ MPI route-specific certificate

At the final examination obtain the current AUPET9 from the MPI-listed practice veterinarian or AUPETOA9 from an NZ MPI official veterinarian. It must certify the scanned matching microchip, NZ freedom from rabies, Brucella canis, Leptospira canicola and indigenous leishmaniasis, and completion of every applicable test/treatment. Take the original certificate and relevant laboratory reports with the pet; copies are not accepted.

Dogs / Cats · Departure countries/regions: NZ

Do not assume every standard AUPET9 requires an additional government-veterinarian endorsement. NZ MPI decides whether official assurance or further endorsement is required. This row concerns dogs/cats, not the rabbit certificate.

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Notify the first-entry regional office at least three days ahead

Email DAFF in the state/territory of the first Australian arrival at least three days before arrival. Include expected date/time, flight and air-waybill (unless on a vessel), pet description and contact number. For a vessel, the master must notify DAFF at least three days before reaching the first port. Use the current New Zealand guide for regional contacts; do not send documents to an outdated address.

Dogs / Cats · Departure countries/regions: NZ

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Arrange direct transport and first-entry clearance

Travel directly from New Zealand to mainland Australia. Air travel is manifested cargo in an IATA-compliant crate; direct sea travel is allowed under the guide and is not required to be manifested air cargo. Vessels must use a first point of entry for live pets and cannot carry other non-imported cats/dogs without prior DAFF approval. Allow at least one hour before a domestic air connection, which may occur only after first-entry biosecurity clearance.

Dogs / Cats · Departure countries/regions: NZ

A transport agent is recommended, not compulsory. This is not the Melbourne-only group-2/3 route.

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Verify the group-1 residence and eligibility declarations

Prove the pet has lived only in Norfolk Island since birth or since direct import from Australia/New Zealand, or for at least the 180 days immediately before export where other-country history applies. This is residence, not quarantine.

Dogs / Cats · Departure countries/regions: NF

Country classification and recent trip history alone do not prove continuous residence or complete lifetime history. Verify the dated evidence with the preparing authority before booking.

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Arrange the authorised preparing official

All required preparations must be completed in Norfolk Island by a registered veterinarian approved by Norfolk Island Regional Council. Contact the responsible local authority before starting; an ordinary clinic or owner-administered treatment is not automatically accepted. Use a functioning ISO-compatible microchip, normally 10 or 15 digits, never starting 999; scan and record every compliant chip at each visit and match the certificate.

Dogs / Cats · Departure countries/regions: NF

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Topical external parasite treatment within five days

In Norfolk Island, a registered veterinarian approved by Norfolk Island Regional Council must administer a compliant topical treatment that kills ticks and fleas on contact within five days before export. Maintain protection until export and repeat per the shortest manufacturer interval if needed. Recheck for parasites at subsequent visits; remove any found parasites and restart preparation. Oral treatments do not generally meet these conditions.

Dogs / Cats · Departure countries/regions: NF

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Internal parasite treatment within five days

In Norfolk Island, a registered veterinarian approved by Norfolk Island Regional Council must administer a compliant product effective against nematodes and cestodes within five days before export, recording the treatment on the certificate.

Dogs / Cats · Departure countries/regions: NF

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Final health examination within five days before export

In Norfolk Island, a registered veterinarian approved by Norfolk Island Regional Council examines the pet within five days before export and certifies it is free of ticks/external parasites and clinical signs of infectious or contagious disease, treated for internal and external parasites, and fit to travel. It must not be under quarantine restrictions, nursing young, or more than 40 days pregnant. The examination and both treatments may be at the same visit.

Dogs / Cats · Departure countries/regions: NF

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Complete Parts 1 and 2 of the Norfolk health certificate

The owner/representative completes animal/exporter/consignee details and declares NF residence for 180 days or since birth/direct import from Australia or New Zealand and no biosecurity restrictions. Use the current separate certificate for each cat or dog.

Dogs / Cats · Departure countries/regions: NF

Veterinary health certification for cats and dogs imported from Norfolk Island to mainland Australia

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Complete and endorse the Norfolk four-part health certificate

Part 3 is completed by the registered NF veterinarian after the five-day examination and parasite treatments, signing/dating each page. Part 4 is completed by a registered NF government officer after checking the owner declaration and veterinary section. The government officer certifies no rabies, canine brucellosis, monocytic ehrlichiosis, leishmaniasis or leptospirosis on NF in the 12 months before export, and that no animals entered NF except from Australia/New Zealand in the preceding five years. Carry the original certificate; standard-compliant dogs/cats require no Australian import permit or mandatory post-entry quarantine.

Dogs / Cats · Departure countries/regions: NF

This is the statutory certificate route, an alternative to importation covered by an import permit under section 12. If DAFF issues an import permit for your circumstances, follow its conditions. This step does not replace any disease, treatment, identity, transport or state/territory requirements in the approved certificate or BICON.

Veterinary health certification for cats and dogs imported from Norfolk Island to mainland Australia

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Government Federal Register of Legislation · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Government Federal Register of Legislation · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Government Federal Register of Legislation · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Notify the first-entry regional office at least three days ahead

Email DAFF in the state/territory of the first Australian arrival at least three days before arrival. Include expected date/time, flight and air-waybill (unless on a vessel), pet description and contact number. For a vessel, the master must notify DAFF at least three days before reaching the first port. Use the current Norfolk Island guide for regional contacts; do not send documents to an outdated address.

Dogs / Cats · Departure countries/regions: NF

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Arrange direct transport and first-entry clearance

Travel directly from Norfolk Island to mainland Australia. Air travel is manifested cargo in an IATA-compliant crate; direct sea travel is allowed under the guide and is not required to be manifested air cargo. Vessels must use a first point of entry for live pets and cannot carry other non-imported cats/dogs without prior DAFF approval. Allow at least one hour before a domestic air connection, which may occur only after first-entry biosecurity clearance.

Dogs / Cats · Departure countries/regions: NF

A transport agent is recommended, not compulsory. This is not the Melbourne-only group-2/3 route.

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Check the dog’s complete history with NZ MPI

If the dog lacks continuous NZ residence since birth or qualifying direct import from Australia, obtain a negative Leishmania infantum IFAT/antibody ELISA using blood collected at least twenty-one days after release from NZ post-arrival quarantine, submitted to MPI Animal Health Laboratory. Attach the result; AHL may arrange an approved Australian laboratory retest after an unfavourable result. Keep the dog continuously in NZ after the qualifying sample. Any lifetime mainland-Africa residence requires the AUPETOA9 official-assurance route and the applicable Babesia canis rossi preparation. Previous accepted treatment can avoid retreatment only on the DAFF guide's evidence conditions with NZ MPI official attestation. Recent travel cannot exclude older history.

Dogs · Departure countries/regions: NZ

The recent-country list is not proof of complete lifetime history or the date NZ residence began. Have NZ MPI determine the applicable tests and certificate.

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI), New Zealand · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI), New Zealand · Checked Nov 12, 2026

History-dependent Leishmania sample after NZ quarantine release

For a dog without the qualifying since-birth/direct-Australian-import exemption, the certifying veterinarian scans the microchip and collects blood at least twenty-one days after release from NZ post-arrival quarantine, not twenty-one days after NZ arrival. Submit the sample to MPI Animal Health Laboratory for a negative IFAT or antibody ELISA and attach the result to the export certificate. AHL can arrange an approved Australian laboratory retest after an unfavourable result. Keep the dog continuously in NZ from the qualifying sample through export.

Dogs · Departure countries/regions: NZ · Departure or recent travel history includes: AD, AE, AF, AG, AI, AL, AM, AO, AQ, AR, AS, AT, AW, AX, AZ, BA, BB, BD, BE, BF, BG, BH, BI, BJ, BL, BM, BN, BO, BQ, BR, BS, BT, BV, BW, BY, BZ, CA, CC, CD, CF, CG, CH, CI, CK, CL, CM, CN, CO, CR, CU, CV, CW, CX, CY, CZ, DE, DJ, DK, DM, DO, DZ, EC, EE, EG, EH, ER, ES, ET, FI, FJ, FK, FM, FO, FR, GA, GB, GD, GE, GF, GG, GH, GI, GL, GM, GN, GP, GQ, GR, GS, GT, GU, GW, GY, HK, HM, HN, HR, HT, HU, ID, IE, IL, IM, IN, IO, IQ, IR, IS, IT, JE, JM, JO, JP, KE, KG, KH, KI, KM, KN, KP, KR, KW, KY, KZ, LA, LB, LC, LI, LK, LR, LS, LT, LU, LV, LY, MA, MC, MD, ME, MF, MG, MH, MK, ML, MM, MN, MO, MP, MQ, MR, MS, MT, MU, MV, MW, MX, MY, MZ, NA, NC, NE, NF, NG, NI, NL, NO, NP, NR, NU, OM, PA, PE, PF, PG, PH, PK, PL, PM, PN, PR, PS, PT, PW, PY, QA, RE, RO, RS, RU, RW, SA, SB, SC, SD, SE, SG, SH, SI, SJ, SK, SL, SM, SN, SO, SR, SS, ST, SV, SX, SY, SZ, TC, TD, TF, TG, TH, TJ, TK, TL, TM, TN, TO, TR, TT, TV, TW, TZ, UA, UG, UM, US, UY, UZ, VA, VC, VE, VG, VI, VN, VU, WF, WS, YE, YT, ZA, ZM, ZW, US-HI

This automatic reminder sees supplied outside-AU/NZ history, not the complete lifetime residence needed to determine eligibility. The planner does not collect quarantine-release dates and cannot automatically date this twenty-one-day requirement. Have NZ MPI verify the exact date and any exemption before booking.

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI), New Zealand · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI), New Zealand · Checked Nov 12, 2026

NZ dog with mainland-Africa history: complete Babesia treatment

A dog with any lifetime mainland-Africa residence requires NZ MPI official assurance AUPETOA9. The current DAFF NZ guide requires the applicable imidocarb dipropionate treatment at least two weeks before export. The current MPI official-assurance OMAR specifies either one 7.5 mg/kg injection or two 6 mg/kg injections two weeks apart, by subcutaneous or intramuscular injection. DAFF's public guide describes subcutaneous administration; use the regimen accepted on the actual certificate and retain its two-week pre-export timing. The drug must be individually imported into NZ and importation/clearance/distribution may take up to sixty days. Prior accepted AU/NZ import treatment is an exemption only on DAFF's continuity and official-attestation conditions, not an automatic lifetime waiver.

Dogs · Departure countries/regions: NZ · Departure or recent travel history includes: DZ, AO, BJ, BW, BF, BI, CM, CF, TD, CG, CD, DJ, EG, GQ, ER, SZ, ET, GA, GM, GH, GN, GW, CI, KE, LS, LR, LY, MW, ML, MR, MA, MZ, NA, NE, NG, RW, SN, SL, SO, ZA, SS, SD, TZ, TG, TN, UG, ZM, ZW, EH

The automatic branch sees supplied history, not all lifetime travel. This reminder does not automatically pick a one-/two-dose regimen or recognise a previous-treatment exemption. Ask NZ MPI before arranging repeat treatment.

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI), New Zealand · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI), New Zealand · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Reach eight weeks before the NZ certification examination

The current operative AUPET9 and AUPETOA9 OMARs require the animal to be at least eight weeks old at the clinical examination for certification. It is insufficient to reach eight weeks only on departure. The final-examination step also enforces this birth-date constraint.

Dogs / Cats · Departure countries/regions: NZ

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI), New Zealand · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI), New Zealand · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Post-entry quarantine at Mickleham (MEL)

The pet is transferred directly from Melbourne Airport to Mickleham. Standard group-3 quarantine is at least 30 days; eligible official-identity and documented Australian-return routes can reduce it to at least 10. All conditions and documentation must be met, and biosecurity issues may lengthen the stay.

Dogs / Cats · Origin group: Group 3 (rabies controlled): rabies preparation, permit, normally 30-day quarantine · Entry pathway: Group 3: standard 30-day quarantine

This is the ordinary group-3 route. Choose an eligible reduced-quarantine pathway only after its evidence requirements are checked.

No domestic transfer into Melbourne is permitted.

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Minimum 10-day post-entry quarantine at Mickleham

Group-2 pets and eligible reduced-quarantine group-3 pets complete at least 10 days at Mickleham, transferred directly from Melbourne Airport. Incomplete documents, non-compliant preparation or other biosecurity concerns can extend quarantine; a chosen route does not guarantee release on day 10.

Dogs / Cats · Origin group: Group 2 (rabies-free): official identity check, permit, minimum 10-day quarantine / Group 3 (rabies controlled): rabies preparation, permit, normally 30-day quarantine · Entry pathway: Group 2: standard identity and 180-day preparation / Group 2: DAFF-confirmed young-animal permit waiver / Group 2: documented direct return from the same country / Group 3: official identity verification, 10-day quarantine / Group 3: Australian export evidence, 10-day quarantine / Group 3: return with Australian pre-departure rabies preparation

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

First-entry inspection and release after acceptable documents

At the first Australian point of entry, a biosecurity officer checks the animal and documents. Release follows acceptance of the standard conditions; further documents or action may be required if they do not match. Pay the document/inspection charges before release. Local registration requirements apply after import.

Dogs / Cats · Departure countries/regions: NZ

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026

First-entry inspection and release after acceptable documents

At the first Australian point of entry, a biosecurity officer checks the animal and documents. Release follows acceptance of the standard conditions; further documents or action may be required if they do not match. Pay the document/inspection charges before release. Local registration requirements apply after import.

Dogs / Cats · Departure countries/regions: NF

Source: Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) · Checked Nov 12, 2026