Pets Customs Clearance

What is pets customs clearance?

It’s the process of getting your pet approved by customs/inspection authorities after landing

Pets customs clearance is the formal process where customs and veterinary/inspection authorities review your pet’s documents and confirm the pet is allowed to enter the country.

Clearance usually includes document checks, health inspection, fee payment, and release

Most clearances include:

• Document verification (microchip, vaccines, permits)

• Physical inspection (in some cases)

• Fees (inspection/handling/storage if applicable)

• Release order issued

• Pickup scheduling or delivery arrangement

When Do You Need Customs Clearance for Pets?

International arrivals (dog or cat entering a new country)

If your pet enters a new country, customs clearance is required—whether your pet arrives as cargo, checked baggage, or sometimes even in cabin (destination-dependent).

Transit stops and connecting flights (when re-check is required)

Some routes require re-check or terminal transfer processes during transit. If re-check is required, the risk of delay increases, so planning matters.

Returning residents vs first-time imports (rules can differ)

Rules can differ for:

• Returning residents bringing pets back

• First-time imports

• Pets arriving under relocation programs
  So, we always check your case type, not just the destination.

Pet Customs Clearance Process (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Pre-arrival document verification

Before the flight lands, we confirm:

• Documents match microchip number

• Health certificate is within validity window

• Permit approvals are complete (if required)

• AWB/booking details are correct

Step 2: On-arrival inspection and document review

At arrival, officials may:

• Scan the microchip

• Review rabies/vaccine dates

• Check permits and endorsements

• Conduct a brief health inspection (sometimes)

Step 3: Fee payment (customs/handling/storage if applicable)

Fees can include:

• Inspection fees

• Terminal/handling fees

• Documentation fees

• Storage fees (only if pickup is late or clearance is delayed)

Step 4: Release order and pickup scheduling

Once cleared, a release order is issued and the terminal provides the pickup window.

Step 5: Final pickup or delivery to home

After release:

• You can pick up your pet (if permitted), or

• We arrange delivery (where service is available/required)

Quick flow table:

Documents Required for Pet Import Customs Clearance

Microchip certificate

Microchip proof is the “identity card” for your pet. The number must match all documents exactly.

Rabies vaccination proof + core vaccines

Rabies is the main requirement for most countries. Core vaccines depend on destination but strong records help.

Fit-to-fly / health certificate

A vet-issued health certificate is often time-limited. If it’s expired or issued too early, clearance may stop.

Import permit (if required)

Some destinations require import permits and approvals before arrival.

Rabies titer test (FAVN) for certain destinations

Regulated destinations may require FAVN results and waiting periods. Customs often checks this carefully.

Airline airway bill (AWB) / booking details

If your pet travels as cargo, the AWB (Air Waybill) is a key document used by terminals to locate, process, and release the shipment.

Owner ID / passport + address proof (varies by country)

Many countries request:

• Passport/ID copy

• Local address or contact details

• Sometimes residency proof (depends on destination rules)

Documents checklist table (simple):

Common Reasons Pets Get Delayed at Customs

Missing or expired health certificate

If the health certificate is outside the allowed window, clearance may pause until corrected (and that can be tough).

Wrong rabies timing or booster gaps

Late boosters or incorrect waiting periods are a major reason pets get held.

Microchip not scannable or mismatch with documents

If the microchip can’t be scanned or the number doesn’t match, officers may treat it as non-compliant.

Import permit not approved

Arriving without a required permit can lead to hold, re-export risk, or quarantine depending on the country.

Breed restrictions or incomplete declarations

Breed-related restrictions are mostly dog-related and can trigger extra checks.

Arrival outside clearance hours (airport cut-offs)

Some airports and government offices have limited clearance hours. If your pet lands outside those hours, storage may apply.

Customs Fees, Airport Charges & What to Expect

Typical fee types: inspection, handling, documentation, storage

Fees vary by country and airport, but common categories include:

• Veterinary inspection fee

• Terminal handling fee

• Documentation/admin fee

• Storage fee (if pickup is late or release is delayed)

When storage fees apply (and how to avoid them)

Storage fees usually apply when:

• Clearance is delayed due to paperwork

• Pickup happens after the free storage period

• Arrival happens outside working hours and pickup is next day
  How to avoid it:

• Share docs early for pre-check

• Be ready to pick up quickly after release

• Choose arrival timings within clearance hours when possible

Payment methods and who pays (owner vs consignee)

Depending on the route:

• The owner pays directly at the terminal

• Or the consignee/agent pays on your behalf
  We guide you before arrival so you’re not stuck at the counter with confusion.

Sample fee range table (illustration, USD):

These are general examples only. Real fees depend on airport and local rules.

Airport Pickup vs Door Delivery After Clearance

When you can pick up your pet directly

You can often pick up directly if:

• You are available within the pickup window

• The airport allows owner pickup

• Your documents are complete and fees paid

When delivery is safer or required

Delivery may be safer or required when:

• The terminal is far or complicated

• You don’t have suitable vehicle/transport

• You’re arriving late or with family baggage

• Local rules require agent delivery procedures

What happens if a pet arrives unaccompanied (cargo) vs accompanied

• Cargo (unaccompanied): Clearance typically happens at the cargo terminal using AWB.

• Accompanied (checked baggage / cabin): Clearance may happen via passenger terminal processes (destination-dependent).
  Either way, documents still matter.

Clearance for Dogs vs Clearance for Cats (Any Differences?)

Similar core documents, but some countries have extra cat rules

Most countries treat dogs and cats similarly for core documents. However, some destinations may add extra rules for cats (rare, but possible).

Breed restrictions are usually dog-related

Breed restrictions and special controls are mostly for certain dog breeds and mixes.

Parasite treatments (ticks/tapeworm) depend on destination

Parasite treatment rules depend on where you’re going. Some destinations require documented treatments within a specific time window.

Quarantine Rules and Customs Clearance

When quarantine is mandatory

Quarantine may be mandatory if:

• The destination is a strict quarantine country

• Required tests/waiting periods are not met

• Documents are incomplete or questionable

Home quarantine vs facility quarantine (destination-based)

Some destinations allow home quarantine, while others require government facility quarantine. Rules depend on destination and compliance level.

How we help coordinate quarantine booking and release

If quarantine applies, we help with:

• Booking guidance (where applicable)

• Document preparation for admission

• Release and post-quarantine steps

Pet Clearance for Transit / Connecting Flights

Direct vs transit routes (what changes at customs)

Direct flights reduce handling points. Transit routes can involve extra terminal processes, and that can increase delay risk.

Re-check and re-documentation risks

Transit can add:

• Re-check requirements

• Handling transfers

• Timing risks if a connection is missed

Tips to reduce delays on transit routes

• Choose reliable transit airports known for pet handling

• Avoid very short connections

• Confirm if re-clearance is required during transit

• Keep documents organised and easy to present

How Our Pet Customs Clearance Service Helps

Pre-arrival document review and checklist

We review your document pack before landing, so you catch issues early, not at the counter.

Coordination with airport handling agents

We coordinate with handling partners where possible to speed up processing.

Guidance on inspection steps and release process

We explain what happens at the airport and what you need to do (and what you don’t need to do).

Fee planning and avoiding storage charges

We help you plan likely fees and reduce storage risks by timing and readiness.

Fast pickup/delivery support after clearance

After release, we support fast pickup or arranged delivery, depending on your chosen service.

Countries & Airports We Support

Major airport clearance locations

We support clearance processes at major international hubs (availability depends on route and local rules).

Destination-specific clearance rules (link to destination pages)

Because rules vary, we recommend destination pages for exact entry steps:

• /destinations/united-kingdom/

• /destinations/canada/

• /destinations/uae/

• /destinations/australia/

• /destinations/india/
  (Internally link to your actual destination hub pages.)

FAQs (AEO Q&A)

How long does pet customs clearance take?

It depends on airport workload and document accuracy. Many clearances can be completed in a few hours, while document issues can push it to a day or more.

Can I clear my pet myself at the airport?

Sometimes yes, depending on local rules and whether the airport allows owner clearance. Cargo shipments often require cargo terminal procedures.

What fees will I pay at customs for my pet?

Possible fees include inspection, terminal handling, documentation/admin, and storage if pickup is delayed.

What happens if my pet’s documents are wrong?

Your pet may be delayed, held for inspection, placed in quarantine, or (in rare cases) refused entry based on local laws.

Will my pet be quarantined?

Only if the destination requires quarantine or if compliance rules aren’t met.

What is an airway bill (AWB) for pet shipping?

An AWB is the cargo tracking document used by airlines and cargo terminals to process and release the shipment.

Can someone else pick up my pet from the airport?

Often yes, but they may need authorisation letters, ID copies, and terminal approvals. Rules vary by airport.

Do pets arriving as cargo have a different clearance process?

Yes. Cargo arrivals usually clear at the cargo terminal using AWB, handling agents, and cargo release steps.

Get Help With Pet Customs Clearance

What we need (arrival airport, flight/AWB, pet details, docs)

To support you quickly, send:

• Arrival airport and flight number (or AWB for cargo)

• Pet details (dog/cat, breed, age)

• Document scans (microchip, rabies, health certificate, permits)

• Your contact number and pickup preference

Request quick assistance (form/WhatsApp/email/phone)

• Form: Best for full details and document upload

• WhatsApp: Fast support for urgent arrivals

• Email: Good for sending PDFs and scans

• Phone: Useful if clearance time is tight

“People Also Ask” Targets (Use as H3 Q&A)

How does customs clearance work for pets?

Authorities check documents, may scan microchip, may inspect the pet, collect fees if applicable, then issue a release order for pickup/delivery.

How long does pet customs clearance take at the airport?

It can take a few hours when documents are correct. If documents are wrong or offices are closed, it can take longer.

What documents are required for pet import clearance?

Microchip proof, rabies certificate, health certificate, permits (if required), and AWB/booking details for cargo shipments.

Can I clear my dog at customs myself?

In many countries yes, but cargo shipments may require cargo terminal procedures and sometimes agent involvement.

What are the customs fees for importing a pet?

Fees vary but may include inspection, terminal handling, and storage if pickup is delayed.

Do pets go through customs on arrival?

Yes, pets must be cleared by customs/inspection authorities before release.

What happens if my pet is delayed at customs?

Your pet may be held at the terminal, and storage fees may apply until documents are corrected and release is granted.

Does a cat need customs clearance?

Yes. Cats also require customs clearance for international arrival.

Is quarantine part of customs clearance?

Quarantine can be part of the entry process for strict destinations or non-compliance cases.

What is an AWB for pet shipping?

The Air Waybill is the cargo tracking document used for terminal release and shipment identification.

Can I pick up my pet at the cargo terminal?

Often yes, but you must follow terminal rules and show required documents/ID and pay fees.

How do I avoid pet storage fees at the airport?

Share documents early, plan arrival within clearance hours, and pick up your pet quickly after release.