The short answer
To bring a dog or cat into United States you need microchip. There is no quarantine for animals that meet every requirement. Plan on at least 45 days before departure.
The United States updated its dog-import rules in 2024. All dogs must be at least six months old, microchipped, appear healthy on arrival and have a CDC Dog Import Form receipt — with extra steps for dogs that have been in a high-risk rabies country.
Entry requirements
How far ahead to start
These are the windows the United States requirements create, counted back from your travel date. The first one is the one people underestimate.
- 1
Implant an ISO 11784/11785 microchip
22 days before travel Cannot be rushed
It has to come first: every later certificate references this number, and a rabies shot given before the chip usually does not count.
- 2
Rabies vaccination
21 days before travel Cannot be rushed
Must be given after the microchip and be valid on the day you travel. Most destinations also require a minimum of 21 days between the shot and entry.
- 3
Book the flight and reserve the pet slot
30 days before travel
Airlines cap how many animals travel per flight. The pet slot runs out well before the seats do.
- 4
Health certificate and official endorsement
2 days before travel Cannot be rushed
Issued by an accredited vet close to departure, then endorsed by your government authority. This endorsement cannot be done at the airport.
- 5
Travel day
Travel day
Carry the originals plus copies of everything, arrive early, and keep the crate documents attached to the crate.
Confirm with the official source
Rules change without notice and can differ by the country your pet is travelling from. Before you book anything, check the requirements directly with the authority that issues them.
Frequently asked questions
Does United States require a microchip for pets?
Yes — a microchip is required to bring a dog or cat into United States.
Does United States require a rabies titer (blood) test?
It depends — a rabies titer test may be required for United States depending on where your pet has travelled from. Confirm with the official source.
Is there a quarantine for pets entering United States?
No — United States does not quarantine pets that meet every entry requirement before arrival.
How far ahead should I start planning a pet move to United States?
Give yourself at least 45 days before travel to complete every step in the correct order.
