PhilippinesVietnam is classified under rabies-risk categories, making a clear understanding of the Philippines pet import laws essential. We provide precise expert insights to help you navigate the regulatory landscape and ensure your beloved pet returns home safely and smoothly.
Last updated 14 Oct 2026i
Four key points pet owners must pay close attention to before relocating dogs or cats to the Philippines
Vietnam is classified as a rabies-risk country
Dogs & Cats: Import require full vaccinations and an SPS permit.
Mainly shipped as Checked Baggage (AVIH) or Manifest Cargo
Pets must be at least 4 months old, fully vaccinated
The import regulations for dogs and cats entering the Philippines are highly aligned and streamlined under the BAI framework.
The right choice depends on your flight plans, your pet’s size, and the airline’s policies.
Pet and owner travel on the same flight and ticket. The pet travels either under your seat(In-Cabin) or as Checked Baggage (AVIH). Highly recommended direct routes on Vietnam Airlines or Philippine Airlines.
The pet travels unaccompanied under a separate Air Waybill (AWB) as cargo. This is applicable for large breeds. All pets entering the Philippines must be cleared by BAI quarantine officers at the port of entry.
Every step below is legally mandated and must be completed in sequence
All dogs and cats entering the Philippines must be at least 4 months old. A 15-digit ISO 11784/11785 microchip must be implanted before the rabiesvaccination, and the chip number must match identically on every document.
A valid inactivated rabies vaccine and core vaccinations (DHLPP for dogs, FVRCP for cats) are required. The vaccination records must be clearly documented in your pet’s booklet and officially endorsed by the Vietnam Department of Animal Health
It is mandatory to register and apply for an SPS Import Clearance (SPSIC) permit online through the BAI portal before travel. This official permit is valid for 60 days from the date of approval.
Within 10 to 14 days prior to the departure flight, your pet must undergo comprehensive clinical treatment for internal and external parasites (deworming and tick/flea treatment) by a licensed veterinarian
All pets must receive an official Export Health Certificate issued by the Vietnam DAH. This official certificate must be obtained within 10 days of your departure flight, confirming the pet is fit for travel.
We highly recommend planning direct flights with premium carriers like Vietnam Airlines or Philippine Airlines to transport your pet under the AVIH (Checked Baggage) service, ensuring maximum safety and efficiency.
A compliant relocation is built on sequenced preparation. Each phase below has legallymandated waiting periods
Implant ISO 15-digit microchip first, then administer rabies and core vaccines. Pet must be at least 4 months old at arrival.
Prepare an airline-approved IATA-compliant kennel, training your pet to sleep and relax inside for at least 4–6 weeks prior to flight.
Submit a complete medical and documentation file online via the BAI portal to obtain the SPS Import Clearance (SPSIC) permit, valid for 60 days.
Secure a confirmed Checked Baggage (AVIH) slot on direct flights with premium airlines or reserve Manifest Cargo space for unaccompanied shipping.
Within 10–14 days prior to departure, perform mandatory clinical deworming and parasite treatments and get a clinical health certificate from a licensed vet.
Obtain the official Export Health Certificate from the Vietnam DAH within 10 days of travel and check in at the airport for departure.
Applied to every pet flying the Philippines route.
Eight weeks and fully weaned is the floor for carriage, and some airlines set it higher. Cabin allowances count pet and crate together. Pregnant animals are not accepted.
IATA and IPATA both advise against sedation, and a pet known to be sedated can be refused at the counter. Crate conditioning on a six-week schedule does that work instead.
Every journey is different — see how we handled real relocation cases for pets traveling from Vietnam to the Philippines.
A Bolognese x Poodle mix who flew from Manila to Da Nang for a week with his owner, then flew home — a short stay still needs the same full paperwork as a permanent move.
A Devon Rex cat whose SPS Import Clearance and Vietnam export certificate were both filed under a different family member’s name than the one on her pet booklet.
Pet owners work with a single point of contact while we take full responsibility for every stage of the journey
Last updated 14 Oct 2026
Compiled by our specialists from the regulations in force on the date above, for reference only. Rules may change after this date. Please verify with the competent authorities or contact us for the most accurate information.
Tell us about your pet and destination. Our team will review your case and provide a clear, tailored quotation.
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