Importing Animals to India: Passports and Vaccinations

Published on April 27, 2026 and written by Cyril Jarnias

Importing a pet to India may seem like a complex challenge, but with the right information, this process becomes much simpler. It’s crucial to understand the specific regulations and administrative procedures to ensure a hassle-free experience.

Among the essential elements, a compliant pet passport and guarantee that all required vaccines have been administered are imperative to ensure your four-legged companion’s legal entry.

This article will guide you step by step through the legal requirements and practical tips, so you can confidently navigate the complexities of importing animals to India.

Administrative Procedures for Importing Pets to India

Steps to Follow for Administrative Procedures When Importing Pets to India:

1. Verify Owner Eligibility:
   • Resided outside India for more than 2 years.
   • Not stayed in India for more than 180 days during this period.
   • Provide proof of residence transfer (contract, visa).
2. Confirm Number and Species of Animals:
   • Maximum two dogs or cats per person.
   • Other species: specific procedures, mandatory DGFT license required.
3. Prepare necessary documents (see table below).
4. Obtain an Indian No Objection Certificate (NOC) through an agent or directly from the relevant AQCS office.
5. Book transportation meeting requirements:
   • Accompanied baggage or air freight depending on the situation.
6. Upon arrival, present yourself at the veterinary/quarantine office with all original documents for final inspection.

Required Documents Table

Document	Details / Notes
Pet Passport	Official identification
Health Certificate	Issued by accredited veterinarian
Vaccination Certificate	Mandatory vaccines including rabies
Flight Ticket	Corresponding to owner’s travel
Owner’s Passport and Visa	Proving residence and transfer
NOC (Indian Certificate)	To obtain before departure
DGFT Import Permit	If specific conditions or other species

Specific Rules and Regulations:

• Mandatory quarantine upon arrival for health inspection; duration varies depending on country of origin and vaccination status.
• Restrictions on certain dog breeds considered dangerous or brachycephalic; verification recommended before import.
• Certain protected species require additional CITES permit; import sometimes prohibited for wildlife.
• Maximum two animals per household without special DGFT authorization; any exception requires justification to DAH&D.

Expected Timeframes

• Obtaining NOC: typically between 1 to 5 business days depending on agent/authority efficiency
• Preliminary formalities (vaccinations, certificates): allow several weeks
• Quarantine after arrival: few days to several weeks

Timeframes can vary significantly depending on country of origin, transport seasonality, and local administrative workload.

Official Portals & Useful Contacts

• NOC/Import forms available on Indian government websites such as DGFT and AQCS
• Possibility to complete certain procedures online via portals.gov.in/dgft/
• Main contacts: AQCS offices in major Indian airports

Common Challenges Faced by Owners During Import Process:

• High administrative complexity: multiple required forms
• Unexpected delays in obtaining NOC or DGFT permit
• Local variability regarding veterinary inspections/quarantine
• Restrictions on certain breeds poorly known outside India
• Limited access to veterinary offices in some secondary airports

To minimize these difficulties: anticipate each step several weeks/months before departure, use specialized animal import/export agent if needed, systematically verify each condition specific to country/day/intended route

Mandatory Vaccinations for Pets Relocating to India

Mandatory Vaccinations for Pet Entry to India

Species	Mandatory Vaccine	Timing Before Entry	Documents to Provide	Specifics
Dog	Rabies	>1 month and <1 year	Vaccination Certificate	Valid for 1 year

How to Obtain a Pet Passport for India

Steps to Obtain a Pet Passport for India

1. Mandatory Microchip
   The animal must be identified by an electronic microchip compliant with ISO 11784 or 11785 standards. If another standard is used, bring a compatible reader.
2. Rabies Vaccination
   The rabies vaccination certificate must be current and issued at least 30 days before travel.
3. Veterinary Health Certificate
   An accredited veterinarian must issue a certificate attesting that the animal is healthy enough to travel.
4. Obtaining No Objection Certificate (NOC)
   This document, issued by the Animal Quarantine Station in India, is mandatory for entry. The application must be made in person by the owner or by an authorized agent.
5. Import Permit
   A “License to Import” issued by the Director-General of Foreign Trade may be required depending on travel type or origin.

Summary Table of Required Documents

Document	Issued By	Average Timeframe
Microchip (ISO 11784/11785)	Accredited Veterinarian	Immediate
Rabies Vaccination Certificate	Accredited Veterinarian	1 to 2 weeks
Health Certificate	Accredited Veterinarian	1 to 7 days
NOC (No Objection Certificate)	Animal Quarantine Station India	3 to 7 days
Import Permit	Director-General of Foreign Trade	1 to 2 weeks

Competent Authorities

– Animal Quarantine Station (India): issues NOC and conducts health inspection upon arrival.

– Director-General of Foreign Trade: issues import permit if necessary.

– Accredited Veterinarians: issue vaccination and health certificates.

Average Timeframes

– Allow approximately 2 to 4 weeks to gather all necessary documents.

– NOC may require appointment scheduling and on-site visit.

Potential Costs

– Microchip identification: €30 to €60

– Rabies vaccination: €20 to €50

– Health certificate: €30 to €100

– NOC issuance fees: €20 to €50

– Agent or specialized service fees (optional): varies by provider

Importance of Pet Passport

– The pet passport consolidates all documents proving the animal’s good health and sanitary compliance.

– It’s essential for entry to India and helps avoid quarantine or boarding refusal.

– It guarantees compliance with Indian customs and sanitary requirements.

Practical Tips for Successful Application

– Schedule veterinary and quarantine station appointments in advance.

– Verify vaccine and document validity at least two months before departure.

– Prepare paper and digital copies of all documents.

– Use a specialized agent if unfamiliar with procedures.

– Prepare an approved transport crate and familiarize your pet with travel.

Useful Resources and Contacts

– Animal Quarantine and Certification Services (AQCS) India: for appointments and file submission.

– Director-General of Foreign Trade: for import permit.

– Accredited Veterinarians: for vaccination, microchipping, and certificates.

– Animal concierge services (e.g., PawSpace, agencies specialized in international animal transport).

Key Takeaways

The pet passport is a compilation of sanitary and administrative documents required for traveling with an animal to India. Its acquisition requires anticipation, rigor, and coordination with competent authorities.