If you are planning to import a dog or cat into Kenya, it is important to meet all veterinary and regulatory requirements to ensure a smooth entry process. Kenya has clear guidelines for pet imports, and compliance helps avoid delays, additional costs, or quarantine.

This guide outlines the official requirements for importing pets into Kenya, including vaccination rules, documentation, and transport regulations.

Import Permit for Pets Entering Kenya

All pets entering Kenya must have a valid import permit, which is:

• Valid for 90 days from the date of issue

• Issued through an authorized agent in Kenya or the Kenyan High Commission in the country of origin

Documents Required to Obtain an Import Permit

To apply for a Kenyan pet import permit, the following documents are required:

Pet Vaccination Requirements for Kenya

Rabies Vaccination

• Pets must have a valid rabies vaccination

• The rabies vaccine must be administered:

  • At least 30 days before travel

  • Within the last 12 months, unless a 3-year vaccine is clearly stated on the vaccination record

Puppies Import Rules

• Puppies can receive their first rabies vaccination at 12 weeks of age

• A 30-day waiting period is required after vaccination
  → Minimum import age is therefore 16 weeks

• Exception:
  If the puppy’s mother has a valid rabies vaccination, the puppy may travel using the mother’s records and can be imported from as young as 8 weeks of age

Importer Details

You must provide:

• The importer’s full name and address

• Details must be provided for both the country of origin and the destination in Kenya

Veterinary Health Certificate & Export Permit

• A veterinary health certificate and/or export permit from the country of origin is required

• Health certificates are typically issued 4–5 days before arrival in Kenya

Documents Required Before Arrival in Kenya

At least 48 hours prior to arrival, the following must be submitted:

• Pre-Alert Airway Bill (AWB)

• Complete flight details

These documents are usually issued by the shipping agent in the country of origin.
Pre-clearance using these details can significantly reduce clearance time at the airport.
Always confirm the correct AWB consignment details before issuance.

Important Entry Conditions for Pets in Kenya

• All original documents must travel with the pet

• Owners are strongly advised to keep copies of all documents

• If all paperwork and vaccinations are correct:

  • Quarantine is not required in Kenya

Microchipping Requirements

• Microchipping is not mandatory for pets entering Kenya

• However, microchipping is strongly recommended for:

  • Identification

  • Future international travel

  • Lost pet recovery

Rabies Antibody Titre Test (RNATT)

• RNATT is not currently required for entry into Kenya

• It is recommended if the pet may travel again, especially to European Union (EU) countries

• Once RNATT is completed, rabies vaccinations must remain strictly up to date for the test to remain valid

How Pets Should Travel to Kenya

• Pets should enter Kenya as manifest cargo

• Some airlines allow pets to travel as accompanied baggage, particularly:

  • Small dogs

  • Cats

• Import clearance assistance is still required, and all import charges remain the same

• Always confirm pet travel options directly with your airline before booking

Need Help Importing Your Pet into Kenya?

Working with an experienced pet relocation or veterinary import service in Kenya can help ensure all requirements are met and avoid unnecessary delays.

For professional assistance with:

• Import permits

• Documentation review

• Airport clearance

• Pet travel coordination

👉 Contact a licensed Kenyan pet import agent or veterinary service for support