Bringing your pet to New Zealand

MPI import permit, rabies blood test, Brucella test for dogs, approved parasite treatments and at least 10 days of quarantine. New ID-check rules apply to pets arriving from 1 April 2027.

DifficultyVery hard

StartPermits needed — start early

QuarantineAt least 10 days on arrival

Rabies blood testRequired (RNATT)

PermitMPI import permit (apply ≥ 20 business days ahead)

Rules checked Oct 27, 2026 against official sources · Dogs & cats

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Step by step

At least 180 days (~6 months) before
First microchip ID check (arrivals from 1 April 2027)
Two vets at two different clinics scan the chip and photograph the pet; the first check at least 6 months before export.
After the 2nd scan
Rabies blood test (RNATT)
For 2027+ arrivals: 6–12 months before shipment, or 3–6 months with two ID checks.
At least 28 days before
MPI import permit
Apply at least 20 business days before you need it.
As MPI requires
Brucella test (dogs) + approved parasite treatments
Approved Brucella tests: RSAT, TAT, CPAg-AGID, IFAT (not 2ME-RSAT alone).
At least 3 days before
Book the MPI inspection
Contact MPI at least 72 hours before travel. Quarantine on arrival: at least 10 days.

Watch out

Rules change on 1 April 2027 — check which set applies to your arrival date.
Prohibited breeds include the American Pit Bull Terrier.

Official sources: www.aphis.usda.gov · www.mpi.govt.nz. Not legal or veterinary advice — confirm with your vet, your airline and the destination's authority.

Personal plan · early access

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Bringing your pet to New Zealand

Step by step

Watch out

Get your pet's plan, dated for your trip

Nearby destinations

Australia