South Africa
Taking your pets to South Africa
South Africa, a nation of breathtaking landscapes, rich wildlife, and diverse cultures. For those considering relocating with their beloved pets to this remarkable country, it's essential to understand the regulations and procedures involved in pet transport. South Africa, like many countries, has specific requirements in place to ensure the health and safety of animals and to prevent the introduction of diseases or pests.
At Pets by Plane, our job is to take the strain out of the international travel process for you and your pet and let you get on with all the other things you need to do. We can help manage your pet's flight from the UK to South Africa from start to finish.
General Information, Entry Procedure and Requirements
Entry into South Africa does not require a rabies vaccination although this is strongly advised to protect your pet upon arrival. The process is slightly more complex for dogs who require various blood tests within 30 days of export. Meanwhile Cats do not require any test.
Both Cats and Dogs will be required to apply for an import permit from which must be delivered to an address in South Africa or collected from one of the Government offices. Therefore, we strongly advise working with one of our partner agents based in SA who will make and collect the application on your behalf, as well as take care of the customs clearance and collection upon arrival. This can take around a month to arrange.
Within 5 days of departure and Export Health Certificate must be completed and signed off by an Official Veterinarian.
Blood Tests Required for Export
If you would like to import a dog to South Africa, your dog needs to pass the following blood tests within 30 days of the export date:
- Brucella canis
- Trypanosoma evansi
- Babesia gibsoni
- Dirofilaria immitis
- Leishmania
For cats, there are no tests required for prior to import.
Next Steps?
We're sure you have lots of questions about organising travel for your pet. Please don't hesitate to contact us if you have something specific you would like to ask, or make get a quote by using our quick online quote form.
TIPS
Tips and Useful Advice
Some dog breeds are not permitted entry - these include Dogo Argentinos, Pit Bull Terriers, Japanese Tosas and American Pit Bulls.
Snub Nosed (Brachycephalic) Breeds are at a higher risk on long flights and therefore airlines also have restrictions on breeds that they carry, please check with us for further information.
Whilst it normally comes back within 10 working days the import permit can take up to 28 working days to be returned, therefore we advise not to start bloodwork until you have the import permit back.