Moving to Vietnam with Pets: A Practical Guide

Published on May 4, 2026 and written by Cyril Jarnias

Moving abroad to Vietnam with your faithful four-legged companion is an exciting adventure that requires careful planning to ensure a smooth journey and a peaceful settlement.

In this article, we will explore the essential steps to take to make the transition as smooth as possible, focusing on key regulatory aspects such as mandatory vaccinations and managing travel documents.

We will also share practical tips to help your pet adapt to its new environment while ensuring its comfort and safety.

By taking care to anticipate each step, you give yourself the chance to fully experience your expatriation while preserving your companion’s well-being.

Administrative Formalities for Bringing Pets into Vietnam

Entry Requirements for Pets in Vietnam

Document / Formality	Specific Requirement
Health Certificate	Issued by an accredited veterinarian, certifying the animal is in good health
Vaccination Record	Must include proof of a valid rabies vaccination
Owner’s Passport	Photocopy to be attached to the file
Airline Ticket	Flight information (date, number) accompanying the animal
Import Permit	To be submitted in advance to the veterinary office at the arrival airport (e.g., Tan Son Nhat, Ho Chi Minh City)
Parasite Treatments	Recommended, but not systematically required (check latest requirements)
Identification	Microchip or tattoo strongly recommended

Steps to Follow

• Gather all the above documents before departure.
• Send the complete file before arrival to the address of the veterinary office at the relevant airport:
  Chi cục Thú y vùng VI
  521/1 Hoang Van Thu, Phuong 4, Quan Phu Nhuan
  Tel: 028.39483032
  Email: [email protected]
• Wait for validation or a request for additional information from the Vietnamese veterinary authorities.
• Upon arrival, present all original documents to the animal health control officers.

Quarantine

In the absence of clinical signs of infectious diseases and with a complete file, pets are generally not subject to systematic quarantine.

If doubts remain during the inspection, a temporary quarantine may be decided by the veterinary authorities upon arrival.

Practical Tips to Facilitate Customs Formalities

• Arrange for a certified translation of all documents into English or Vietnamese, done by an accredited translator.
• Check for specific restrictions on certain dog and cat breeds (list available from Vietnam Airlines or veterinary services).
• Contact the veterinary services at the arrival airport in advance to clarify any points or obtain confirmation of the procedures.

Useful Contacts

Service	Contact Information
Tan Son Nhat Veterinary Office	028.39483032 / [email protected]
Airport Veterinary Service	Contact the veterinary service of the arrival airport (address on the airport website)

Official Links for Up-to-Date Information

• https://ho-chi-minh-ville.consulfrance.org/Informations-pratiques-3381
• https://www.vietnamairlines.com/fr/fr/buy-tickets-other-products/special-services/traveling-with-pet
• https://www.vietnam.vn/fr/van-chuyen-thu-cung

Note:

• Conditions can change rapidly; it is imperative to check the requirements on official websites before departure.
• Airlines impose their own criteria regarding transport (weight, minimum age of the animal, allowed breeds, etc.).

Preparing for International Pet Transport

Vietnamese Regulations on Importing Pets

To import a pet into Vietnam, it is mandatory to present:

• A health certificate issued by an official veterinarian from the country of origin
• A valid rabies vaccination certificate
• The animal’s health record
• A copy of the owner’s passport
• Arrival information (date, flight number, airline tickets)

These documents must be sent before arrival to the animal health control office at the arrival airport. Animals must be at least 10 weeks old, in good health, free of infectious diseases, and up-to-date on their vaccinations.

Summary Table of Health Requirements

Requirement	Detail
Minimum Age	10 weeks
Health Certificate	Mandatory
Rabies Vaccination	Mandatory and up-to-date
Health Record	Mandatory
Identification	Recommended (microchip/tattoo)
Documents to Send	Before arrival to the veterinary office

Available Transport Types

Commercial Air Transport

• Animals accepted in the cabin (≤6 kg with carrier) or in the hold (≤32 kg with carrier)
• Cost varies by airline and destination: average 100 to 400 EUR in cabin, 200 to 600 EUR in hold
• Impact on well-being: the cabin is preferable for small animals, the hold being more stressful and sensitive to climate variations. Some breeds sensitive to heat/cold are refused
• Sustainability: The carbon footprint of air transport is high, but there is no maritime alternative for individuals

Specialized Pet Services

• Full service (formalities, approved carrier, veterinary monitoring)
• Higher cost (500 to 2000 EUR depending on services)
• Better stress management and increased safety due to experienced staff

Preparations Before the Trip

• Reservations: Inform the airline in advance; some impose a quota of animals per flight
• IATA-approved travel carrier: sturdy, well-ventilated, adapted to the animal’s size, labeled with the owner’s contact information
• Acclimation: get the animal used to the carrier several weeks before departure
• Check restrictions: some breeds and pregnant animals are prohibited from transport
• Travel kit: prepare water, absorbent mat, toy or familiar object, health record, and original documents

Practical Tips for Securing the Animal During Travel

• Place a cloth or garment with the owner’s scent in the carrier
• Use sturdy fastenings for the carrier
• Mark the carrier “Live Animal” and indicate the direction
• Avoid feeding the animal 6 hours before departure to prevent nausea
• Follow the airline’s instructions regarding sedatives (often discouraged)

Tips for Reducing Animal Stress

• Maintain the usual routine until departure
• Use calming pheromones (spray or collar) for dogs/cats
• Opt for a direct flight and avoid long layovers
• Adjust travel times to limit the effects of jet lag: plan a gradual adaptation period upon arrival
• In case of hot/humid climate in Vietnam, plan gradual acclimatization, offer fresh water, and monitor for signs of heatstroke

Recommendations for Choosing a Reliable Transport Company

• Choose airlines known for their pet transport management (e.g., Vietnam Airlines, Air France)
• Check:
  • Customer reviews on specialized platforms
  • Certifications (IATA, veterinary accreditation, international animal transport association)
• Ask to be connected with former clients (case studies: expatriate families, animal NGOs)
• Compare included services: real-time tracking, veterinary assistance, contingency management

Real-Life Example

A common case: a cat imported from France to Ho Chi Minh City with Vietnam Airlines. The owners followed all health procedures, accustomed the cat to its carrier 3 weeks before departure, and used calming pheromones. Upon arrival, the veterinary check was quick thanks to the preparation of the complete file. The animal adapted to the local climate in a few days thanks to gradual acclimatization and the use of a fan in the room.

Tip: Preparing a detailed checklist several weeks before departure helps anticipate formalities and limit stress for both the animal and its owner.

Tips for Pet Adaptation in a New Vietnamese Environment

Here are the main tips to facilitate your pet’s adaptation to Vietnam:

• Study the Vietnamese climate: Vietnam is characterized by often intense heat and high humidity, especially in the south and during the rainy season. Some animal breeds, particularly brachycephalic breeds, are especially sensitive to heat and humidity. It is essential to anticipate adjustments (ventilation, hydration, limiting activity during the hottest hours) to preserve your pet’s health.
• Find local English-speaking veterinarians or those offering international services. Major cities generally have veterinary clinics with English-speaking staff. Prioritize these establishments to facilitate communication in case of emergency or for specific care.
• Learn about locally available pet food:

• Imported kibble and wet food may be rarer or more expensive than in Europe.
• Local brands often have different compositions, sometimes less suitable for specific needs.
• Alternatives:

• Bring a supply of usual food for the adaptation period.
• Search for specialized distributors or online stores.
• Gradually adapt the diet to local products while monitoring the animal’s digestive tolerance.

• Create a familiar space for your pets, linked to their previous home, to reduce stress. Use items carrying their scent (blanket, toys, bed) and maintain a routine similar to the one they knew before.
• Gradually introduce your pets to local wildlife and new environmental stimuli:

• Introduce new spaces gradually.
• Monitor reactions to potentially dangerous wildlife (mosquitoes, giant centipedes, stray animals).
• Use a leash and remain vigilant outdoors.

• Tips for managing jet lag and routine changes:

• Gradually shift meal and walk times before departure.
• Maintain the animal’s reference points as much as possible (meal times, walks).
• Be attentive to signs of disorientation or anxiety.

Local Registration or Regulation Procedures for Pets in Vietnam

Formality	Main Requirement	Note
Identification	Animal identification mandatory	Microchip recommended
Rabies Vaccination	Up-to-date	Veterinary certificate required
Health Certificate	Issued within 7 to 10 days before departure	Must be official
Quarantine	Possible depending on country of origin	Variable duration
Local Registration (some cities)	Declaration to the town hall or veterinarian	According to local regulations

Precautions to Take

• Limit contact with stray animals (dogs, cats, livestock, monkeys) to avoid the risk of bites and diseases (especially rabies).
• In case of a bite or scratch, clean the wound immediately and consult a doctor.

Key Takeaways

Adapting your pet’s environment, routine, and diet facilitates its acclimatization to Vietnam. Preparation and vigilance are the keys to a successful transition for your companion.

Finding Suitable Veterinary and Pet Services in Vietnam

Main Types of Veterinary Services Available in Vietnam:

• Local Veterinary Clinics: Found mainly in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, they primarily handle dogs and cats. They offer general consultations, preventive care (vaccinations, deworming), basic medical treatments, and sometimes simple surgical procedures.
• International Veterinary Clinics: Located in urban centers, they often employ veterinarians trained abroad and have modern equipment. They offer advanced medical care, specialized surgery, laboratory analysis, and services tailored to an expatriate clientele. English-speaking staff is common, facilitating communication for foreigners.
• Public Veterinary Services: Managed by the Department of Animal Health (DAH), they handle prophylaxis, vaccination, epidemic management, meat inspection, and border control for imported or exported animals.
• Rural and Paraveterinary Care: In rural areas, care is often provided by village technicians or paraveterinarians, with limited equipment. Care is more basic and mainly concerns farm animals.

Available Specialized Care:

• Orthopedic surgery (cruciate ligament, hip luxation)
• Internal medicine (diabetes, kidney failure, liver disease)
• Veterinary ophthalmology
• Dermatology (ear infections, allergies)
• Dental care
• Medical imaging (X-ray, ultrasound)
• Management of chronic diseases (Cushing’s syndrome, hyper/hypothyroidism)

Exotic Animals:

Animal Type	Available Services
Small mammals	Consultations, surgery, imaging
Exotic birds	Medical care, surgery, care advice
Reptiles/amphibians	Specialized care, environmental management
Fish	Diagnosis, adapted treatments

Large urban clinics or some specialized facilities handle exotic animals. However, care remains more limited than in Europe or North America.

Additional Services:

• Pet Boarding and Kennels: Many establishments offer pet boarding, with accommodation, feeding, and possible veterinary supervision.
• Groomers: Present in major cities, they provide grooming, clipping, bathing, nail care, etc.
• Home Services: Some clinics offer home visits, especially for expatriates.

English-Speaking Veterinarians:

International clinics and some large local facilities employ English-speaking veterinarians, essential for the expatriate community. It is recommended to check the language spoken before making an appointment.

Common Protocols for Pets:

• Vaccination: Mandatory against rabies, recommended for other diseases (parvovirus, leptospirosis, feline distemper, etc.).
• Deworming and regular antiparasitic treatments.
• Identification: Microchipping is still not widespread but recommended for traveling animals.

Local Regulations on Pet Care and Transport:

• A health certificate is required for any animal entering or leaving the country.
• Quarantine may be required depending on the country of origin/destination.
• Up-to-date vaccinations (especially rabies) are mandatory for international transport.
• Veterinary inspections are carried out at borders, ports, and airports.
• There are vaccination campaigns organized by local authorities.

Tips for Finding Reliable Services:

• Prioritize clinics recommended by expatriates or on online community groups.
• Check for the presence of qualified veterinarians, the condition of the premises and equipment.
• Ask about the language spoken, especially if you do not speak Vietnamese.
• Inquire about the possibility of obtaining detailed invoices and medical records.

Expatriate Recommendations:

• Expatriates generally recommend turning to international clinics for complex or specialized care.
• For basic care, several local veterinarians are competent, but the language barrier can be an obstacle.
• Expatriate forums and social networks in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City are valuable sources of recent reviews and feedback.

Summary of Key Points:

Service	Where to Find It	English-Speaking	Equipment Level	Notes
Local Veterinary Clinic	Major cities, neighborhoods	Rarely	Medium	Routine care, moderate prices
International Veterinary Clinic	Main cities	Yes	High	Higher fees, expatriates
Boarding/kennel/grooming	Urban areas	Sometimes	Variable	Book in advance
Exotic Specialists	Large urban clinics	Sometimes	Medium to high	Limited care
Rural/paraveterinary care	Countryside, small towns	No	Low	Basic care, not suitable for exotic pets

For optimal support, it is highly recommended to contact international clinics in advance if you are traveling with exotic animals or if you do not speak Vietnamese.