Requirements for Pet Import into Kenya
Looking to move your pet to Kenya?
Your journey begins here!
Before finalizing their schedule, packing, or making arrangements for Moving Day and preparing your pet for travel to or within Kenya, there are a few essential steps to take care of first. Getting these things sorted in advance will help you avoid last-minute stress and complications.
The guide below contains all the essential information for importing pets into Kenya.
However, it can be highly beneficial to work with a professional pet transport company—like ours—for expert guidance and assistance throughout the relocation process..
- An Import Permit into Kenya is valid for 90 days from date of issue, and must be obtained through an Authorized Agent in Kenya or from the Kenyan High Commission in the country of origin. In order to attain an Import Permit into Kenya, the following documents are required:
- A current copy of your pet’s vaccination record.
- Rabies vaccination must be administered at least 30 days before travel but not more than 12 months prior, unless the vaccine is valid for 3 years and this is clearly stated on the vaccination certificate—such cases are also acceptable.
- In the case of PUPPIES, the import age is stated as being 12 weeks because this is the earliest age that a puppy can be given its 1st Rabies vaccination. However, it must then wait 30 days from vaccination before travel (i.e. import age minimum 16 weeks of age).
- If the MOTHER of the puppy has an up to date rabies vaccination, the puppies can travel with its mother’s records and therefore be imported from as young as 8 weeks of age.
- The Importers name and address in both country of origin and destination.
- A copy of the Health Certificate and/or Export Permit from the country of origin. Health Certificates can be issued 4 – 5 days prior to arrival.
- Before the pet(s) arrives, we will also need copies of the following documents:
- A Pre-Alert Airway Bill from the airline and all flight details at least 48 hours prior to arrival. These will come from your shipping agent in the country of origin. With these, pre-clearance can be done which can reduce the amount of clearing time at the airport once the pet lands.
- Please confirm the correct consignee details and how the AWB should be consigned before it is issued
- All original documents must accompany the animal during travel. However, please ensure you retain copies of all documents as a backup in case the originals are misplaced.
- As long as all required paperwork and vaccinations are in order prior to travel, there is no quarantine requirement upon arrival in Kenya.
- Microchipping is not required for entry into Kenya; however, it is strongly recommended as a reliable form of identification and may be necessary for future international travel.”
- Rabies antibody titre testing (RNATT) is NOT YET a requirement for entry into Kenya. However, it is advisable if the pet may travel again, especially to an EU country in the future. Vaccinations must then be kept STRICTLY up-to-date for the RNATT to remain valid.
- All pets entering Kenya are generally required to arrive as manifest cargo. However, a few airlines—such as Lufthansa, Emirates, and Turkish Airlines—may allow small pets like cats or small dogs to travel as accompanied baggage. In such cases, we can still assist with customs clearance, though all standard import charges will still apply. Please confirm with your airline in advance to ensure this option is available.”