Planning to move overseas with your pet? Whether you’re relocating permanently or heading abroad for an extended stay, taking your furry friend with you is a big decision — and it comes with paperwork.
One of the final steps in the process is getting a pet export permit.
Australia has strict rules around the export of animals to ensure they travel safely and meet the requirements of the destination country.
An export permit is a legal requirement for pets leaving Australia and must be approved before your pet can board their flight.
What is an Australian Pet Export Permit?
An Australian pet export permit is an official document issued by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) that allows your pet to travel legally outside the country. It confirms that your pet meets both Australian animal export laws and the entry requirements of the destination country.
In short, it’s a legal approval that helps ensure your pet is fit to fly, has received the right treatments and vaccinations, and is cleared for export.
What the Permit Includes
The export permit includes essential information such as:
- Your pet’s details (name, breed, species, microchip number)
- The destination country
- Travel dates and airline information
- Confirmation that health and import requirements have been met
Why Does My Pet Need an Export Permit?
Getting an export permit isn’t just a box to tick — it’s a legal requirement for international pet transport. The Australian Government uses export permits to manage the safe and ethical transport of animals across international borders. An export permit helps:
- Protect animal welfare
- Follow international agreements
- Meet the health rules of the destination country
It’s a Legal Requirement
Exporting animals without the correct permit is against the law. The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) oversees exports.
All pets flying internationally must have a valid export permit in place before departure. Without it, your pet may be refused export or delayed at the airport.
It Confirms Your Pet is Fit to Travel
An export permit helps confirm that your pet is healthy and ready for travel. As part of the application process, you’ll usually need to provide a veterinary health certificate, vaccination records, and other documents to show your pet is in good condition. This protects your pet from unnecessary stress or health risks during the journey.
It Ensures You Meet the Rules of the Destination Country
Each country has its own import rules for animals. Some require certain vaccinations, quarantine periods, blood tests, or parasite treatments.
The export permit process helps you align with these requirements before your pet even leaves Australia. It reduces the risk of your pet being denied entry or placed in unexpected quarantine upon arrival.
It Helps Avoid Travel Delays and Complications
Without the correct paperwork, your pet could be delayed at the airport, refused by the airline, or turned away by border control at the other end. Having a valid export permit facilitates a smoother journey.
In short, an export permit protects your pet, ensures you comply with the law, and helps make the travel process much smoother. It’s an essential part of moving your pet overseas the right way.
Steps for Getting a Pet Export Permit
Taking your pet overseas is a big job, but breaking it down into clear steps can make the process feel more manageable. Here’s what’s involved in getting a pet export permit from Australia.
Step 1: Check Destination Country Requirements
Every country has different rules for importing animals, which can change at any time. Some require blood tests or long quarantine periods, while others may have breed restrictions or strict timelines for vaccinations.
The official government website of the country you’re moving to is a good place to start. You can also contact a pet transport company such as Dogtainers for up-to-date advice.
Step 2: Book a Pet Transport Company
Working with a professional pet transport company is essential for exporting pets from Australia. We also make the process as smooth as possible.
We understand the rules, paperwork, and logistics involved and can take a lot of the stress off your plate.
The best pet transport provider will help with flights, crate sizing, documentation, timing and more.
Step 3: Contact a Registered Vet
You’ll need to work with an approved veterinarian in Australia, preferably one who’s experienced with international pet travel.
They’ll help you with:
- Health checks
- Vaccinations
- Blood tests
- Parasite treatments
It’s crucial to book these appointments well in advance, especially if the destination country has a long preparation period.
Step 4: Submit a Notice of Intention to Export
Once your timeline and travel details are confirmed, you (or your pet transport provider) will need to submit a Notice of Intention to Export to the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF).
This form gives the department details about:
- Your pet (species, breed, age, microchip number)
- Your export plans (dates, flight info)
- The destination country’s requirements
Step 5: Make Transport and Quarantine Arrangements
Depending on your destination, your pet may need to:
- Fly on a specific airline or route
- Be housed at an approved facility before or after travel
- Complete quarantine at the destination country
Now’s the time to book flights, confirm crate details, and make any required quarantine bookings. Your pet transport provider can guide you through this process to make sure all boxes are ticked.
Step 6: Prepare Your Pet for Export (Treatments, Vaccinations, etc.)
Based on the import conditions of the destination country, your pet may need specific:
- Vaccinations (e.g. rabies, kennel cough)
- Parasite treatments (for ticks, fleas, worms)
- Blood tests (such as the rabies titre test)
These treatments often need to be done within a specific time frame before travel, so follow the schedule carefully. Keep records of everything — you’ll need to show them at your final appointments.
Step 7: Arrange a Final Vet Examination
Before your pet can fly, they must pass a final health check to confirm they’re fit for travel and meet the destination country’s requirements.
This check is done by your registered vet and includes a final review of all treatments and paperwork. If everything is in order, the vet will issue a Veterinary Health Certificate, which is essential for your permit application.
Step 8: Arrange a Pre-Export Appointment with DAFF
Booking a pre-export inspection with the DAFF is the last step. You must have all documentation completed to demonstrate you have met the destination country requirements. You can provide everything by email before your inspection appointment or present it during the appointment.
Note: Your pet transport company can attend this appointment on your behalf.
At this appointment, the certifying government vet will:
- Check your pet’s microchip
- Review all health documents
- Confirm your pet is fit and safe to fly
The certifying vet determines if your pet is eligible for export.
Some countries need DAFF officers to verify an animal’s identity. In this case, your pet must attend the appointment with you. Otherwise, your pet doesn’t need to be there, as the DAFF vet just needs to verify all documentation.
Authorities issue your export permit and health certificate when your:
- Pet has been prepared in line with the importing country’s requirements
- Consignment complies with Australian export legislation
How Much Does the Export Permit Cost?
The export permit itself costs $305 per document. But there are other costs associated with obtaining the export permit.
For instance, the DAFF charges a time-based fee to assess and prepare your health certificate. The cost of a vet inspection is $75 per 15 minutes.
To receive your export permit, expect to pay at least $380. Of course, there are also costs leading up to the final step – such as vet visits and pet transport company services.
Pet Export with Dogtainers
Preparing your pet for export doesn’t have to be overwhelming. You can significantly reduce stress with expert help.
From checking destination country requirements to arranging vet visits, we can guide you through everything. You don’t have to go through the process alone.
Our experts have been helping pet owners like you with export for over 50 years. We’re Australia’s oldest and most reliable pet transport company with:
- Vast experience
- Industry credentials
- Tailored services
- Reliable global networks
- Strong airline partnerships
- Deep regulatory knowledge
We’re here to make your international pet travel experience safe, smooth and stress-free.
Get your quote today for international pet travel.
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