Transporting Pets to China

 Step 1: Microchip Your Pet

Before planning any international travel, ensure your pet is microchipped. The microchip must comply with ISO 11784/11785 standards (15-digit, non-encrypted). Implantation must be done by a certified veterinarian, and the microchip number should be properly recorded in the official database. This microchip links your pet to all essential documents required for entry into China.

 Step 2: Rabies Vaccinations – Two Doses Required

For pet import to China, your dog or cat must receive two valid rabies vaccinations.
✔️ The first vaccination must be administered at least 30 days prior to departure but no more than 12 months before travel.
✔️ A booster dose (second vaccination) is mandatory shortly after the first dose.
Note: China does not accept multi-year or 3-year rabies vaccines.

Additional Recommended Vaccinations:

• For Dogs: Distemper, Hepatitis/Adenovirus, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza, Leptospirosis

• For Cats: Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia, Leukemia

 Step 3: Rabies Titer Test (FAVN Test)

A rabies antibody test (Titer Test) is compulsory if your pet is arriving from non-designated countries.
✔️ The blood sample for the titer test must be collected no earlier than 30 days after the second rabies shot.
✔️ The test must be processed at a laboratory recognized by the GACC (General Administration of Customs of China) or approved international labs.
✔️ The result should show a minimum rabies antibody level of 0.5 IU/ml.

 Step 4: Internal and External Parasite Treatment

Before departure, your pet must undergo parasite treatments targeting internal (tapeworms) and external (ticks, fleas) parasites. This step ensures your pet meets China’s strict health safety standards.

 Step 5: Obtain a Veterinary Health Certificate

A licensed veterinarian must issue an official health certificate that includes:
✔️ Pet’s identification and description
✔️ Microchip number
✔️ Rabies vaccination records
✔️ Titer test results
✔️ Details of parasite treatments

This certificate is crucial for customs clearance at Chinese ports of entry.

 Step 6: Check for Pet Import Permit (if applicable)

Depending on your visa status and the nature of your travel, an import permit may be required. Always confirm this with Chinese authorities or your pet relocation specialist to avoid last-minute surprises.

 Step 7: Be Aware of Banned Dog Breeds (City-Specific)

While China doesn’t have a nationwide ban on dog breeds, cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Chengdu restrict or prohibit certain breeds. Examples include:

• Beijing: German Shepherd, Mastiff, Rottweiler, Doberman, Great Dane, and others

• Shanghai: Tibetan Mastiff, Rottweiler, Bullmastiff, and their crosses

• Chengdu: Pit Bull Terriers, Akita, Dogo Argentino, Cane Corso, and more

Always verify local breed regulations with Anvis Pet Relocation before travel.

 Step 8: Prepare for Quarantine (if needed)

• Pets from designated countries that meet all health and vaccination criteria generally avoid quarantine.

• Pets from non-designated countries or those missing any requirements will face mandatory 30-day quarantine at approved facilities in cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Urumqi.