Pet Relocation from India to UK: Complete Process, Cost, Documents & City-Wise Guide
Relocating a pet from India to the United Kingdom is a detailed and highly regulated process. Whether you’re moving for work, studies, or family, ensuring your pet travels safely and legally requires careful planning, strict compliance with UK pet import laws, and professional coordination.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about pet relocation from India to the UK — including the complete process, costs, required documents, timelines, city-wise guidance, airline rules, and expert tips. If you’re searching for international pet relocation, international pet shipping, or overseas pet transport, this guide will help you make informed decisions.
Why Pet Relocation to the UK Requires Professional Planning
The UK follows strict biosecurity and animal welfare regulations under DEFRA (Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs). Any mistake — such as incorrect vaccination timing or missing paperwork — can result in pet quarantine, travel delays, or refusal of entry.
That’s why many pet parents choose international pet relocation specialists like Anvis Pet Relocation, who manage complex international pet transport and ensure full legal compliance.
Step-by-Step Process for Pet Relocation from India to the UK
1. Microchipping (Mandatory)
Your pet must be implanted with an ISO-compliant microchip before receiving the rabies vaccination. The microchip must be readable and meet international standards.
2. Rabies Vaccination
After microchipping:
- Your pet must receive a valid rabies vaccination
- The vaccine must be administered at least 21 days before travel
- Booster vaccinations must remain valid
3. Rabies Antibody Titer Test (RNATT)
This is a mandatory blood test for pets traveling from India to the UK.
Key requirements:
- Blood sample sent to an EU/UK-approved laboratory
- Must show antibody levels of 0.5 IU/ml or higher
- Travel allowed three months after the blood sample date
This step determines your earliest possible travel date.
4. Additional Vaccinations & Parasite Treatments
Recommended vaccinations:
- DHPPi / DHLPP (Dogs)
- FVRCP (Cats)
Dogs must receive tapeworm treatment between 24 and 120 hours before entering the UK.
5. Import Permit (If Required)
Most personal pet relocations do not require an import permit. However, commercial moves or relocation involving multiple pets may require additional approvals.
6. UK Health Certificate
A government-approved veterinarian in India issues the health certificate, which must be endorsed by AQCS (Animal Quarantine & Certification Services). The certificate must be completed within 10 days before travel.
7. Airline Booking & IATA Travel Crate
Pets must travel in an IATA-approved travel crate that meets airline safety and welfare requirements.
Crate requirements include:
- Enough space for the pet to stand, sit, and turn comfortably
- Ventilation on all sides
- Secure locking mechanism
- Leak-proof base
Crate training before travel is highly recommended.
8. Approved UK Entry Airports
Pets must arrive through UK-approved Animal Reception Centres (ARC) at airports such as:
- London Heathrow
- London Gatwick
- Manchester
In most cases, pets cannot travel in cabin and must fly as manifest cargo.
Pet Relocation Cost from India to the UK
The cost depends on factors such as pet size, breed, airline, crate, documentation, city of departure, and season.
Cost to Fly a Dog from India to the UK
Estimated range: ₹2,00,000 – ₹4,50,000+
Cost to Fly a Cat from India to the UK
Estimated range: ₹1,60,000 – ₹3,50,000+
Cost Breakdown
| Expense | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Microchipping | ₹1,500 – ₹3,500 |
| Rabies Vaccination | ₹2,000 – ₹4,000 |
| Rabies Titer Test | ₹18,000 – ₹30,000 |
| Government Health Certificate | ₹6,000 – ₹12,000 |
| Airline Cargo Fee | ₹1,20,000 – ₹3,00,000 |
| IATA Travel Crate | ₹8,000 – ₹45,000 |
| Pet Relocation Service Fee | Varies |
Planning Pet Relocation from India to the UK?
Pet relocation costs and regulations can change frequently, and one small mistake can lead to delays or quarantine. Working with an experienced international pet relocation company helps ensure your pet travels safely, legally, and stress-free.
How Much Does It Cost to Import a Dog to the UK?
The final cost depends on:
- Dog size and weight (including crate)
- Airline route and cargo rates
- Seasonal demand
- Special handling or quarantine risk
Using a professional international pet relocation company helps avoid costly errors and delays.
Required Documents for Pet Relocation from India to the UK
Mandatory Document Checklist
- Microchip certificate
- Rabies vaccination certificate
- Rabies titer test report
- Vaccination records or pet passport
- UK health certificate
- Tapeworm treatment certificate (Dogs)
- Owner passport copy
- Flight booking confirmation
- Import declaration if required
City-Wise Guide: Pet Relocation to the UK from India
Pet Relocation from Delhi to UK
Delhi offers strong airline connectivity and AQCS availability. Planning ahead is important due to cargo clearance timelines.
Pet Relocation from Mumbai to UK
Mumbai is one of the most preferred hubs for international pet shipping, offering multiple airline options and efficient export processing.
Pet Relocation from Bangalore to UK
Bangalore is ideal for professionals relocating abroad. Early veterinary scheduling is recommended due to high demand.
Pet Relocation from Chennai to UK
Chennai offers competitive cargo pricing and relatively smooth clearance procedures.
Pet Relocation from Hyderabad to UK
Hyderabad has good airline connectivity but requires early flight booking due to limited cargo pet slots.
Airline Rules for International Pet Transport to the UK
Most pets travel as manifest cargo under airline pet transport regulations.
Commonly used airlines include:
- Lufthansa
- KLM
- Air France
- Qatar Airways
- Emirates
- Singapore Airlines
Pets generally cannot travel in cabin to the UK unless on special charter or approved exceptions.
Quarantine Rules for Pets Entering the UK
No quarantine is required if:
- Vaccinations are valid
- Rabies titer test is successful
- All documents are accurate
Quarantine may be imposed if documentation is incomplete or vaccination timing is incorrect.
How Long Does Pet Relocation from India to the UK Take?
Typical Timeline
| Step | Duration |
|---|---|
| Microchip & Rabies Vaccination | 1–2 weeks |
| Rabies Titer Waiting Period | 3 months |
| Airline & Export Process | 2–4 weeks |
Total recommended timeline: 4–6 months
Breed Restrictions in the UK
The UK restricts the import of certain breeds, including:
- Pit Bull Terrier
- Japanese Tosa
- Dogo Argentino
- Fila Brasileiro
Legal clearance may be required for restricted breeds.
Preparing Your Pet for International Travel
Crate training tips:
- Introduce the crate early
- Make it a comfortable resting space
- Practice short crate stays
- Avoid sedation unless prescribed by a veterinarian
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Delaying the rabies titer test
- Incorrect vaccination sequence
- Using non-IATA travel crates
- Missing tapeworm treatment timelines
- Booking flights before documentation approval
Professional international pet relocation services help prevent these issues.
Why Choose Anvis Pet Relocation for UK Pet Travel?
Anvis Pet Relocation specializes in pet relocation international services, providing complete international pet transport solutions from India to the UK.
Our Services Include:
- Step-by-step legal compliance guidance
- Veterinary coordination and titer test support
- Airline booking and cargo handling
- IATA-approved travel crates
- Customs and quarantine clearance
- Door-to-door overseas pet transport
- Dedicated pet relocation consultants
We ensure every pet relocation is safe, compliant, and stress-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to bring a pet from India to the UK?
Your pet must be microchipped, vaccinated for rabies, pass a rabies titer test, complete a three-month wait period, obtain a UK health certificate, and travel via approved cargo routes.
How much does it cost to fly a dog from India to the UK?
Typically between ₹2,00,000 and ₹4,50,000, depending on dog size, airline, and crate requirements.
How much does it cost to fly a cat from India to the UK?
Typically between ₹1,60,000 and ₹3,50,000, depending on airline and crate size.
Can pets travel in cabin to the UK?
In most cases, no. Pets must travel as manifest cargo unless on special charter flights.
Is quarantine required for pets entering the UK?
No quarantine is required if all vaccination and documentation requirements are met.
How long does pet relocation to the UK take?
The process typically takes 4–6 months, mainly due to rabies titer waiting periods.
Final Thoughts
Pet relocation from India to the UK requires careful planning, accurate documentation, and compliance with strict regulations. With professional guidance, your pet can travel safely and comfortably.
If you are looking for international pet relocation, or overseas pet transport, Anvis Pet Relocation is your trusted partner for a smooth and worry-free journey.
Ready to Relocate Your Pet from India to the UK?
Whether you are relocating a dog or cat, Anvis Pet Relocation ensures a safe, compliant, and stress-free international journey. Our experts handle every detail — from veterinary documentation to airline coordination and UK clearance.
