Moving Pets Overseas: How to Move Internationally With a Pet

Moving internationally with a family pet is an emotional and complex process.

Considering all the airline rules, destination requirements, health paperwork, and travel logistics, there’s a lot to prepare and plenty of opportunity for stress.

This guide takes you step by step through the entire process, ensuring your pet arrives safely and happily in your new home abroad.

Careful Planning is Essential

International pet moves are expensive, often time-sensitive, and for many countries, there are mandatory documentation, quarantine, and vaccinations to be aware of.

A small oversight can delay entry, cost you extra money, or worse, leave your pet stuck in quarantine far from home.

You may also like to read: Best Countries to Move to. In this guide, we suggest some of the best countries for Americans to move to and why.

Create a Pet Relocation Checklist

Moving a pet overseas requires months of preparation. Here’s a checklist to get you started:

1. Research the destination’s import rules.
2. Confirm airline pet policies.
3. Schedule vet visits early.
4. Prepare paperwork and tests.
5. Book travel through a reputable transporter.

Pro tip: Government regulations and airline rules can change. Always check with both your destination’s embassy/agencies and a USDA-accredited vet early in your planning.

You may also like to read: Moving Abroad Checklist. In this guide, we have created a comprehensive checklist so that you do not miss any important tasks when moving abroad.  

Documentation and Health Requirements

Microchip

Most countries require a 15-digit ISO microchip implanted before any rabies vaccination. If your chip isn’t ISO-compliant, you’ll often need a second chip or to carry a scanner.

Rabies Vaccine and Titer Tests

Almost all destinations require proof of rabies vaccination after microchip implantation, typically done at least 21–30 days before travel.

Some countries (e.g., Australia, New Zealand, and Japan) require a rabies titer blood test months before entry to prove immunity.

Health Certificate or Pet Passport

• US Export: A veterinary health certificate (“fit-to-fly”) issued by a USDA-accredited vet and endorsed by the USDA within a tight time window before departure is usually required.
• EU / Many countries: A pet passport is common in Europe, which includes a microchip, vaccination records, and treatment info.

Note: The U.S. CDC has also updated dog import rules: dogs must be 6 months old, microchipped, and vaccinated against rabies before entering the U.S. on return trips, and additional documentation may apply.

Transportation Options

International pet transportation costs typically range from $2,000–$5,000 per pet, depending on the destination, services, airline route, and the required paperwork.

In-Cabin Travel

Small dogs and cats may be allowed in the cabin if they meet carrier size and weight limits. Fees vary widely between airlines.

Cargo Hold / Air Freight

Larger animals typically fly as cargo. This is more expensive and requires an IATA-approved travel crate. On average, cargo costs from $200 to $1,500+ per pet.

Professional Pet Relocation Services

Full-service pet transport companies handle documentation, quarantine, customs, and delivery, often costing $2,500–$3,500+, depending on services and destination.

Specialty / Ground Transport

Some companies provide combined door-to-door transport for shorter distances (often costly).

You may also like to read: Choosing an International Mover. In this guide, we take you step-by-step through the process of picking a good international moving company.

Breakdown of Typical Costs

Expense	Typical Range
Microchip	~$25–$75
Vaccinations + Titer Tests	~$50–$400+
Health Certificate	~$100–$350+
USDA Endorsement Pet Carrier	~$38-$175                                             ~$50-$200
Airline Travel (in-cabin)	~$50–$1,000+
Airline Cargo Transport	~$1,000–$3,500+
Professional Relocator	~$2,500–$3,500+
Customs / Import Fees	~$30–$500+
Quarantine Fees	Varies widely

Quarantine Considerations

Some countries insist upon quarantine upon arrival, especially if the destination has strict biosecurity (e.g., Australia, New Zealand). Quarantine can be days to weeks and can add significant fees.

• Australia: 10 days minimum.
• New Zealand: Similar requirements.

Make arrangements early and factor the quarantine period into your relocation plans.

Check Destination Country Rules

There’s no universal set of rules. For example:

• EU jurisdictions use a harmonized pet passport and require specific treatments before travel.
• Middle Eastern countries often require rabies vaccinations and microchips and sometimes quarantine on arrival.
• Asia may require titer tests and advanced notice.

Always consult the embassy or official veterinary authority of the destination country well ahead of moving day.

You may also like to read: How to Ship a Car Overseas. In this guide, you will find useful and practical tips for shipping your car abroad.

Acclimating Your Pet to a New Country

Once you arrive:

Settling In

• Let your pet explore the new home gradually.
• Maintain a consistent routine (feeding, walks, and play).
• Introduce new sights and sounds slowly.

Vet Visit After Arrival

Visit a local vet soon after arrival to:

• Transfer medical records.
• Confirm vaccinations are up to date per local standards.
• Get recommendations for local parasites or health requirements.

Handle Stress and Disorientation

Pets may feel stressed in a new country. These tips will help your pet settle in:

• Provide familiar blankets/toys in their space.
• Use calming pheromones or supplements with vet guidance.
• Keep comfort and reassurance high in the first weeks.

You may also like to read: Countries That Will Pay You to Move There. In this guide, we look at some countries that offer incentives for people wanting to move there and the criteria that you have to meet to qualify.

Tips for Moving Abroad with Pets

• Plan early; sometimes it can take up to 6 months to meet the country’s requirements.
• Double-check microchip, vaccination, and certificate timing.
• Keep copies of all paperwork physically and digitally.
• Confirm airline policies multiple times before travel.
• Hire an experienced professional to help if overwhelmed; it’s worth it for your peace of mind.

Useful Resources

• USDA – Essential information for owners exporting pets
• Find a USDA-accredited vet
• IATA – Useful information about pet crates
• IPATA – International Pet and Animal Transportation Association
• Destination country requirements
• Embassy Finder –To find the details of every embassy
• Moveadvisor – For country guides and international moving tips

Moving overseas with your pet doesn’t have to be overwhelming, but it does require planning, attention to detail, lots of time, and diligent preparation.

Remember to start the preparations early, understand your destination laws, get the right documentation, choose the best travel method for your pet, and ensure that you settle your pet into their new home thoughtfully. You’ll make the transition smooth and stress-free for both of you.