India does allow the import of pets, but there are certain restrictions and regulations that must be followed. The import of pets is regulated by the Indian government’s Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research.
Restrictions on which types of pets can be brought into India
India has strict regulations regarding which types of pets can be imported. The following pets are allowed to be imported into India:
- Dogs
- Cats
- Birds
- Fish
- Guinea pigs
- Hamsters
It is important to note that the import of certain dog breeds such as Pitbulls, Japanese Tosas, and Brazilian Mastiffs are banned in India due to safety concerns. Additionally, certain bird species are also banned for import due to the risk of avian influenza.
Pet Vaccination Requirements in India
All pets being imported into India must be vaccinated against rabies. Dogs and cats must have a valid rabies vaccine certificate, which should be at least 30 days old but not more than one year old at the time of arrival. Additionally, dogs must also be vaccinated against canine distemper, hepatitis, and parvovirus.
Importation Application Procedure in India
To import a pet to India, you must obtain an import permit from the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying. The application for an import permit must be made at least 30 days before the pet’s scheduled arrival in India. You will need to provide the following documents along with your application:
- A valid health certificate for your pet issued by a licensed veterinarian in the country of origin.
- A valid rabies vaccination certificate.
- A certificate of origin.
- A certificate of good health issued by the government veterinarian of the exporting country.
It is important to note that the Indian government requires all documentation to be in English, so you may need to get your documents translated before submitting them.
Quarantine Rules in India
All pets entering India are subject to a quarantine period of up to 30 days. The quarantine period is mandatory for all pets, and the costs associated with quarantine will be borne by the pet owner. During the quarantine period, your pet will be examined by a veterinarian to ensure that they are healthy and free of any communicable diseases.
International Travel Scheme
India is not part of any international travel scheme for pets, such as the European Union’s Pet Travel Scheme or the United States’ Pet Passport program. Therefore, it is important to follow the regulations set forth by the Indian government when importing a pet into India.
Licences in India
Pet owners in India are required to obtain a license for their pets. The license is issued by the local municipality or city corporation, and the requirements for obtaining a license may vary depending on the location. Generally, you will need to provide proof of vaccination against rabies and pay a fee to obtain a pet license.
Relevant Government Websites
If you are planning to bring your pet to India, the website of the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying is a useful resource for information on the requirements and procedures for importing pets. The website provides detailed information on the application process, required documents, and fees for importing pets to India. You can also find contact information for the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying if you have any questions or concerns.
Link to the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying website:
Bringing a pet to a new country can be a complicated process, and it is important to be aware of the regulations and requirements set forth by the country’s government. In India, pets must meet certain requirements and undergo a quarantine period before they are allowed into the country. Additionally, pet owners must obtain a license for their pets from the local municipality or city corporation. By following the regulations and guidelines set forth by the Indian government, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free process when importing your pet to India.