Taking a pet out of Thailand
The export process from Thailand
Before any destination-country rule applies, your pet has to clear the Thai export process. Here is that half.
Last updated 21 May 2026
Rules change — verify before you act
This guide was last reviewed in May 2026. Export rules — Thai DLD procedures, destination-country requirements, airline policies and CDC/APHA rules — change without notice. Use this as orientation, then confirm every current requirement with the DLD and the destination country’s authority before booking.
What Thailand requires to export a pet
The Department of Livestock Development oversees pet export. The core of the Thai side is:
- a working ISO microchip;
- a current rabies vaccination and other vaccinations;
- a veterinary health certificate confirming your pet is fit to travel;
- an export permit, with the documents endorsed by the DLD.
This is usually arranged in the days just before travel, often at the DLD office at the departure airport.
Where the destination country comes in
The Thai paperwork only gets your pet out. Getting it in at the other end is governed entirely by the destination country, and that is usually the harder, longer part — especially the rabies titer test and its waiting period. Read the destination page for where you are going, and work backwards from your travel date.
Leaving from the airport
Most pets depart from Suvarnabhumi (BKK). The DLD has an office at the airport for final endorsement, and your pet is checked before it flies. Many owners use a pet relocation agent for export precisely because the airport steps and the destination paperwork have to line up perfectly.
Frequently asked
How far ahead should I start the export process?
The Thai side is fairly quick, but the destination side is not — a titer test plus a three-month wait means several months of lead time for the UK, EU or Australia. Start as early as you can; the titer test is the long pole.
Do I need an agent to export a pet?
No, but many owners use one. The value of an agent is in lining up the Thai endorsement, the destination requirements and the flight so nothing slips. For complex destinations it is often worth it.