practical · 5 May 2026

Bringing Pets into China: The Current Rules in 2026

China's pet import rules require rabies vaccinations, microchipping, health certificates, and prior approval. Dogs and cats are the most common cases. Here is the process, the timeline, and what happens at the border.

Bringing a dog or cat into China requires: ISO 11784/11785 microchip; rabies vaccination administered after the microchip; a rabies antibody titre test (RFFIT/FAVN at ≥0.5 IU/mL) for countries without a direct GACC certification pathway; a government-endorsed health certificate issued within 10 days of travel; and GACC pre-approval, which may take 4–8 weeks.

At entry, declare the animal at the APHIS inspection desk. One cat or dog per household is admitted without quarantine if documents are complete. Incomplete paperwork triggers 7–30 days of quarantine at ¥200–400 per day.

Breed restrictions: Beijing prohibits dogs over 35 cm at the shoulder in urban districts. Shanghai and other cities maintain restricted breed lists. Large-breed dog owners should research city-specific rules before moving.

Timeline: allow 60–90 days minimum. Professional pet relocation services (¥3,000–15,000) significantly reduce error risk.