Bringing or Importing a cat or dog into Australia

Cats and dogs entering Australia must meet all of the AQIS import conditions prior to export. This is to ensure no exotic diseases are introduced into Australia. Australia is free from many animal-related diseases found in other parts of the world.

If you wish to import a cat or dog into Australia, you need to apply for an AQIS import permit via the Live Animal Imports Program. AQIS officers will assess the application and – provided that the animal meets the import permit requirements – grant an import permit.

An import permit is required to book a space at an AQIS post-arrival Animal Quarantine Station. There are three post-arrival Animal Quarantine Stations for cats and dogs in Australia – Sydney, Melbourne and Perth.

Different import conditions apply for the importation of disability assistance dogs.

The import conditions applicable for pets other than cats and dogs can be viewed through the following link; other pets.

Select the country you intend to export the cat or dog from below to download a detailed information package containing the relevant quarantine requirements, fees, import permit application form and the steps involved throughout the entire import process.

If the country is not listed below the direct importation of cats and dogs from that country into Australia is not permitted as the disease or risk status is considered to be too high. Refer to Category 6 – all other countries for more information.