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Taking a dog or cat to India from the UK

Travelling with your pet to India from the UK requires structured preparation, correct certification, and careful timing. Below is a clear, practical step-by-step guide covering vaccinations, Export Health Certificates, pre-export paperwork, NOC applications, declarations, and final travel checks, written to help you avoid delays and last-minute problems. This guide applies to non-commercial exports of pet dogs and cats from the UK to India.

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Step-by-Step Guide: Importing your dog or cat from the UK to India

  • DGFT approval can take several weeks, so we strongly recommend starting the process early.

  • Additional requirements may apply if you are travelling through another country.

  • If you intend to return to the UK in the future, a rabies blood test (RNATT) may be required, so planning ahead is advisable.

Important information

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Confirm the Correct Import Route

Pets can enter India under one of three routes:

  • Transfer of residence

  • Re-import of a previously exported pet

  • DGFT import licence (for temporary stays or certain other circumstances)

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If you're travelling temporarily, relocating with more than two pets, or don't meet the transfer-of-residence requirements, you'll usually need a DGFT import licence.

 

Certain breeds (including Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, Cane Corsos, Akitas, and some Mastiff breeds and crosses) cannot be imported into India.

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Microchip and Vaccinations

Your pet must have an ISO-compliant microchip, and the microchip number must match all documentation.

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A valid rabies vaccination is required and must:

  • Be administered when your pet is at least 12 weeks old

  • Be given at least 30 days before travel

  • Be valid at the time of entry into India

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Routine vaccinations should also be up to date.

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Plan Your Journey

Before booking your veterinary appointments, confirm:

  • Your departure date

  • Your airline

  • Your arrival airport

  • Any transit countries

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Additional documentation may be required depending on your route.

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Obtain the correct travel certificate Export Health Certificate and AQCS Approval

India requires an EHC 2910 Export Health Certificate completed by an Official Veterinarian.

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The process normally involves two appointments:

  • A pre-export (PX) appointment approximately one week before travel

  • A final examination within 48 hours of departure

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The PX certificate is then used to obtain an Advance No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Animal Quarantine and Certification Service (AQCS).

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Final Examination and Certification

During the final appointment, we will:

  • Perform a full clinical examination

  • Verify the microchip details

  • Review vaccination records

  • Complete and issue the final Export Health Certificate.

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Airline Requirements

Some airlines also require a Fit to Fly certificate and may have additional rules regarding:

  • Crate specifications

  • Breed restrictions

  • The number of pets permitted per passenger

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Always check directly with your airline before travelling.

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Arrival in India

Your pet should travel with the following original documents:

  • Export Health Certificate (EHC 2910)

  • Rabies vaccination certificate

  • Microchip records

  • AQCS No Objection Certificate (NOC)

  • Flight documentation

Need help with your pet's travel?
Get in touch with our team for professional advice and guidance.
Start a Request
Prefer to understand every step in detail first?
Explore our full step-by-step guide for a more in-depth breakdown of the requirements.
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