Planning to travel to China with your pet in 2025? Understanding the pet travel rules in China is essential for a smooth journey, whether you’re visiting the Great Wall or relocating to Beijing. As of February 25, 2025, China maintains strict regulations to ensure animal health and public safety. This guide provides accurate, up-to-date details on bringing pets into China, optimized for Google indexing to help pet owners like you prepare effectively.

Overview of China’s Pet Travel Regulations

China classifies only dogs and cats as pets for standard import rules—other animals (e.g., rabbits, birds, reptiles) fall under separate agricultural or exotic import policies and require special permits. The General Administration of Customs of China oversees these rules, updated in Announcement No. 5 [2019], effective since May 1, 2019, with minor adjustments reflected in 2025 practices.

Key Pet Travel Rules for Entry into China

1. One Pet Per Traveler

• • Rule: Each adult traveler (with a valid passport) may bring only one dog or cat per trip. Multiple pets are considered commercial imports, triggering stricter regulations.

• • Exception: Entering via Hong Kong allows flexibility for two pets with additional documentation—check with a pet relocation expert.

2. Microchip Requirement

• • Rule: Pets must have an ISO 11784/11785-compliant microchip (15-digit, non-encrypted). If your pet’s chip doesn’t meet this standard, bring a compatible scanner.

• • Purpose: Ensures traceability and identity verification at the border.

4. Health Certificate

• • Rule: An international health certificate from a licensed veterinarian, endorsed by your country’s authority (e.g., USDA-APHIS for U.S.), is required within 14 days of arrival.

• • Details: Must include microchip number, vaccination dates, and a statement of good health (no communicable diseases).

5. Quarantine Rules

• • No Quarantine: Pets meeting all requirements (microchip, vaccinations, titer test, health certificate) from any country can enter without quarantine if they pass a port health check.

• • 30-Day Quarantine: Applies if:
    
    • • Missing required documents.
    
    
    • • Titer test fails or isn’t provided (for non-designated countries).
    
    
    • • Symptoms of disease are detected at entry.

• • Designated Ports: Quarantine facilities are available only at major ports like Beijing (PEK), Shanghai (PVG), and Guangzhou (CAN)—plan your entry accordingly.

6. Port of Entry Health Check

• • Rule: All pets undergo a clinical exam upon arrival. Guide, hearing, or rescue dogs with training certificates may get expedited clearance.

• • Outcome: Pass = release; fail = quarantine or return/destruction (owner’s expense).

Exiting China with Pets

• • Requirements:
    
    • • Rabies vaccination (30 days to 1 year prior) from a PRC-designated vet, with an official “Animal Health and Immunity Certificate” (red book).
    
    
    • • Exit health certificate from a government quarantine hospital (e.g., Beijing Quarantine Bureau), issued 7-10 days before departure.
    
    
    • • Destination country’s import rules (e.g., U.S. CDC requirements for dogs).

• • Process: Submit documents at the port of exit for an “Animal Hygiene Certificate.”

Additional Rules and Restrictions

• • Breed Bans: Cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Chengdu restrict large or “aggressive” breeds (e.g., Mastiffs, Rottweilers, Pit Bulls). Check local laws—e.g., Beijing bans dogs over 35 cm (14 inches) tall in central areas.

• • Dog Licensing: One dog per household in urban zones; register with local police upon arrival.

• • Airline Policies: Most carriers (e.g., Air China) allow one pet per passenger as checked baggage (up to 32 kg with carrier) or cargo, but not in-cabin. Confirm oxygen-equipped holds and book 48+ hours in advance.

Practical Tips for Pet Travel to China

• • Start Early: Begin 6-8 months ahead for vaccinations and titer tests—delays can lead to quarantine.

• • Costs: Expect $1,500-$5,000 USD total, including vet fees, tests, travel, and possible quarantine.

• • Ports: Use Beijing, Shanghai, or Guangzhou for full facilities—smaller ports may reject non-compliant pets.

• • Relocation Help: Agencies like PetRelocation or ICVS can streamline paperwork and logistics.

Travel with Confidence in 2025

China’s pet travel rules are strict but manageable with planning. Whether you’re bringing a furry friend for a visit or a new chapter, meeting these requirements ensures a safe entry. Hellochinatrip.com can assist with travel plans—start your pet-friendly China adventure today!