How to Fly with a Pet to India (2026 Requirements)
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Plan Your Trip FreeVeterinary
Microchip implantation
180+ days before travelISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip required. Should be implanted before vaccinations.
Vaccinations
Rabies vaccination
90+ days before travelCurrent rabies vaccination required. Must be administered after microchipping. Keep official vaccination records.
Core vaccinations
60+ days before travelDogs must have current DHPP vaccinations. Cats must have current FVRCP vaccinations. Bring full vaccination history.
Documentation
Health certificate from USDA-accredited vet
10+ days before travelHealth certificate from a USDA-accredited vet within 10 days of travel, confirming the pet is healthy, vaccinated, and microchipped.
USDA/APHIS endorsement
7+ days before travelHealth certificate must be endorsed by USDA APHIS. Allow 2–5 business days via VEHCS or USDA office.
Indian Embassy/Consulate authentication
5+ days before travelIndia may require the USDA-endorsed health certificate to be additionally authenticated by the Indian Embassy or Consulate in the US (or via Apostille). Verify this requirement with the Indian Consulate before travel, as requirements have changed in recent years.
Customs & Entry
Customs declaration on arrival
Declare your pet to Indian customs upon arrival. Pets must enter through designated international airports with veterinary inspection facilities. No quarantine required for pets from the US if all documents are in order.
Important Notes
India's pet import requirements have evolved — verify current requirements with India's Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (dahd.gov.in) or the Indian Embassy before traveling. Authentication requirements for health certificates can change. Emirates and Air India are common carriers for US–India routes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does my pet need a microchip to travel to India?
Yes. An ISO 11784/11785 compliant 15-digit microchip is required. The microchip must be implanted before the rabies vaccination is administered — if done in the wrong order, the vaccination may not count.
What vaccinations does my pet need to enter India?
A current rabies vaccination is required. The vaccine must be administered after microchipping and must remain valid on the date of arrival.
Is quarantine required when bringing a pet to India?
No quarantine is required for pets that arrive with all documentation in order. If documentation is missing or incorrect, your pet may be detained.
How far in advance do I need to start preparing to travel to India with my pet?
At least 2 months before departure. Start early to allow time for vaccinations, required waiting periods, and government paperwork.
What is the USDA health certificate and do I need one for India?
A USDA health certificate (Form 7001) is an official document signed by a USDA-accredited veterinarian confirming your pet's health and vaccination status. It must be issued within 10 days of departure and endorsed by your regional USDA APHIS office. Most international destinations require it.
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Get Your Free ChecklistRequirements last verified: 2026-03-25. Always confirm current rules with your vet and the destination country's animal health authority before travel.