Pet Relocation In and Out of Nepal. Process, Costs & Requirements

Created Date : 2025-04-17


Pet Relocation In and Out of Nepal. Process, Costs & Requirements

Crossing Borders with Your Fur Family? A smooth pet relocation to or from Nepal hinges on meeting Nepal’s import/export regulations, securing proper health certifications, and budgeting for fees and transport costs.

Pets entering Nepal must be microchipped, vaccinated against rabies at least 30 days prior, and accompanied by an international health certificate issued within 30 days of travel. You must notify the Kathmandu Animal Quarantine Office at least 24 hours before arrival, pay import tax (up to 40 % of your pet’s value), and use airline‑approved crates. 

When exporting pets, you’ll need an Export Health Certificate endorsed by a USDA‑accredited veterinarian for U.S. shipments or by Nepal’s Ministry of Agriculture for other destinations, and you should verify any titer test or re‑entry requirements with your destination country. 

Typical costs include vet fees, crate purchase, airline charges, and customs duties, varying by pet size, route, and service level. For tailored quotes and vet‑on‑demand support, explore Orient’s Pet Relocation Service Page, or request a Free Quote 

 

 

Importing Pets to Nepal: Process & Requirements

1. Identification & Microchip

All pets entering Nepal must be microchipped with an ISO‑compliant 15‑digit chip to ensure proper identification and record‑keeping.

2. Vaccinations & Health Certificate

Your pet must have:

  • A valid rabies vaccination, administered at least 30 days and no more than 12 months before travel.

  • An International Health Certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within 10 days of departure (valid for 30 days of travel).

3. Notification to Quarantine Office

Notify the Kathmandu Animal Quarantine Office at least 24 hours before your flight, providing pet details, arrival date/time, and flight information. Early notification ensures quarantine officers are on hand to process your pet.

4. Import Permits & Fees

  • Import Permits: Not required for personal pets entering via Tribhuvan International Airport.

  • Import Tax: Up to 40 % of the pet’s assessed value, payable in cash at customs upon arrival.

5. Airline & Crate Requirements

  • Booking: Reserve space for your pet at least 24 hours before departure, since spots can be limited.

  • Crate Standards: Crates must allow your pet to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably and meet IATA regulations for in‑cabin or cargo transport.

6. Customs Clearance & Quarantine

Upon arrival, present all health documents, pay import duties, and if required by local authorities, your pet may undergo a short quarantine. Nepal does not routinely quarantine personal pets but reserves the right for health inspections.

7. Estimated Costs

  • Veterinary Fees: Health certificate, vaccinations, and microchip—expect USD 50–$150 depending on your country.

  • Import Tax: Several hundred dollars, based on your pet’s assessed value.

  • Airline Charges: Vary by carrier and weight—typically USD 100–$500.

  • Crate & Containers: Around USD 50–$200 depending on size and quality.
     

 

 

Exporting Pets from Nepal: Process & Requirements

1. Export Health Certificate

  • For U.S. exports, a USDA‑accredited veterinarian must issue and electronically submit the Export Health Certificate via VEHCS, then obtain a USDA ink‑signed endorsement.
     

  • For other destinations, your vet in Kathmandu must complete a health certificate, then have it certified by the Government of Nepal’s Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development Services..

2. Rabies Antibody Titer Test

While Nepal does not require a titer test for export, many countries (including the U.S. and EU) may mandate one for re‑entry. Confirm with your destination country’s animal import authority.

3. Export Permits & Notifications

Some countries require an import permit before your pet’s arrival. Check with your destination’s embassy or consulate and arrange any necessary permits. Notify the destination quarantine authority in advance to streamline clearance.

4. Airline Bookings & Crate Standards

The same IATA‑compliant crates apply for exports. Book your pet’s space early and ensure all airline paperwork—health certificate, microchip info, and crate specs—is complete.

5. Potential Export Costs

  • Certification & Endorsement Fees: USD 100–$200.

  • Titer Tests (if required): USD 75–$150.

  • Airline & Cargo Charges: USD 100–$500.

  • Crate & Handling Fees: USD 50–$200.

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What pets are allowed?
Dogs and cats are most common; other domestic species may require special permits.

Q2: How long is the Health Certificate valid?
Typically, 10 days from issuance for Nepal entry and 30 days for export travel.

Q3: Is quarantine mandatory in Nepal?
Not for personal pets, but health inspections can occur at customs.

Q4: Can I travel with my pet in the cabin?
Small pets (<8 kg including carrier) may travel in the cabin if the airline allows; otherwise, they go as checked baggage or cargo.

 

 

Internal Resources & Next Steps



Login