Air Travel Regulations for Pets to Thailand – 2025 Updated Guide
Bringing your beloved pet along when relocating, traveling, or going on an extended stay in Thailand is a rewarding experience—but it comes with specific responsibilities. Thailand has clear and strict regulations regarding the air transport of dogs and cats, designed to ensure the health and safety of both animals and people.
This comprehensive guide will help you understand the latest pet import laws for Thailand (2025), including documentation, vaccinations, quarantine requirements, airline guidelines, and tips to prepare your pet for a smooth journey.
Table of Contents
1. Can You Bring Pets to Thailand?
Yes, Thailand allows the importation of pets—primarily dogs and cats—by air, but you must comply with their official veterinary and customs procedures. Thailand is considered a rabies-controlled country, so it strictly regulates pet entry to avoid disease transmission and ensure animal welfare.
Both accompanied pets (traveling with the owner) and unaccompanied pets (traveling as manifest cargo) are permitted, depending on airline and country of origin.
2. Airline Rules for Pet Travel to Thailand
Airlines have individual policies for pet transportation. Your pet may travel:
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In-cabin (for small animals under ~7kg, depending on airline)
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As checked baggage
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As manifest cargo (mandatory for large breeds or unaccompanied pets)
Some major airlines that allow pet transport to Bangkok (BKK) or other Thai airports:
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Qatar Airways
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Singapore Airlines
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Emirates
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Thai Airways
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Lufthansa
Tip: Book your pet’s spot well in advance, as many airlines limit the number of animals allowed on each flight.
3. Thailand’s Official Pet Import Requirements
To legally bring a dog or cat into Thailand, you must follow Department of Livestock Development (DLD) regulations. As of 2025, these include:
✅ Pet Must Be:
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At least 4 months old
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Microchipped with ISO 11784/11785 (15-digit) standard
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Vaccinated and healthy
✅ Entry Port:
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Pets must arrive at designated international airports such as:
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Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK)
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Don Mueang (DMK)
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Phuket (HKT)
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Chiang Mai (CNX)
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✅ Import Permit:
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Pre-approval from the DLD is recommended
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Apply for an Import Permit (R.1/1) 15–30 days before arrival
4. Required Documents for Pet Entry into Thailand
You will need to submit and carry the following documents:
📌 1. Health Certificate (VC)
Issued by a licensed veterinarian within 7 days before departure. Must include:
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Pet’s breed, sex, age, microchip number
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Confirmation of no infectious diseases
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Fit-to-fly status
📌 2. Rabies Vaccination Certificate
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Pet must be vaccinated at least 21 days prior to travel, but not more than 12 months before entry
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For puppies/kittens: earliest valid rabies vaccination age is 3 months
📌 3. Microchip Certificate
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Number must match that on the vaccine and health certificates
📌 4. Import Permit (optional but recommended)
Apply via the Thai DLD website or contact the Livestock Quarantine Station
📌 5. Airline Booking Details
Include cargo manifest if shipping separately
📌 6. Owner Identification
Passport copy and proof of ownership of the pet
Important: All documents must be in English (or Thai) and presented upon arrival.
5. Quarantine Rules and Health Checks
Thailand generally does not require quarantine if all documents are in order and the pet is healthy. However:
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Inspection by the Animal Quarantine Officer is mandatory at the airport.
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If any health concerns arise, quarantine (7–30 days) may be imposed at an approved facility.
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If documents are missing or invalid, entry may be denied or delayed.
Quarantine fee: ~500–1000 THB/day (subject to location and facilities)
6. Breed Restrictions in Thailand
While Thailand is relatively relaxed about breeds, some rules and restrictions apply:
🚫 Banned or Restricted Dog Breeds:
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Pit Bull Terrier
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American Staffordshire Terrier
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Other aggressive breeds may be subject to import denial unless with special permission
🐾 Brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds:
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Such as Bulldogs, Pugs, and Persian cats may face airline restrictions due to breathing issues during flight
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Many airlines do not accept snub-nosed pets as cargo
Tip: Always check with both the airline and DLD before booking for restricted or brachycephalic breeds.
7. Tips to Prepare Your Pet for Flying to Thailand
Traveling long distances can be stressful for pets. Follow these tips to ensure their comfort and safety:
🧳 Before the Trip
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Visit your vet for a full check-up and documentation.
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Microchip your pet and update identification tags.
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Get your pet used to their travel crate weeks before the flight.
✈️ During the Flight
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Choose a non-stop flight when possible.
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Attach a label with your contact info and “Live Animal” sticker on the crate.
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Do not sedate your pet unless approved by a vet.
🐶 Upon Arrival
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Proceed to the Livestock Quarantine Station immediately after landing.
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Submit documents and pay inspection or clearance fees.
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Provide water and comfort after travel.
8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
❓ How much does it cost to bring a pet to Thailand?
Costs vary, but typically:
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Airline pet cargo: $300–$1200+
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Vet paperwork & vaccination: $100–$300
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Import fees or quarantine (if required): $50–$300
❓ Can I bring other animals (birds, reptiles, etc.)?
Yes, but with additional permits and specific requirements. Contact the Thai DLD for guidelines.
❓ Is Thailand pet-friendly?
Yes. Many apartments, hotels, and even cafes now accept pets in cities like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket, though it’s best to confirm policies in advance.
❓ Can my pet fly in-cabin to Thailand?
Yes, depending on the airline policy and pet’s weight (usually under 7–8 kg). Make sure to reserve early.
9. Conclusion
Transporting your pet to Thailand by air requires careful preparation, but with the right documents, vaccinations, and planning, the process is smooth and safe. Always stay updated with the latest guidelines from the Thai Department of Livestock Development and your airline provider.
By following this 2025 guide, you’ll ensure that your furry friend arrives in Thailand healthy, happy, and ready to explore their new home.
