Official Import Rules
Bhutan requires a current rabies vaccination, a government-endorsed veterinary health certificate, and an import permit from the Department of Livestock under the Ministry of Agriculture & Forests. Microchip recommended.
Bhutan has strict biosecurity awareness due to its emphasis on environmental conservation. All visitors to Bhutan require a visa and must pay a Sustainable Development Fee ($100/day for regional tourists, $200/day for others).
Arrival through Paro International Airport (PBH) — the only international airport.
Medical Roadmap
Microchip recommended
Rabies vaccination
Apply for import permit from DoL
Arrange Bhutan visa
Health certificate
Government endorsement
Arrive at Paro (PBH) — only international airport
Preparation Checklist
2 months before
1 month before
10 days before
Travel day
Cost Breakdown
Quarantine Information
Possible inspection quarantine
City & Housing Tips
Thimphu is the capital and largest city. Paro has the only airport. Bhutan has very limited pet infrastructure. The Buddhist culture promotes compassion toward animals. Stray dogs are common and managed through government TNR programs.
Vets & Common Parasites
Very limited vet care. The National Centre for Animal Health in Thimphu provides basic services. No specialist care available. Bring all medications. For emergencies, evacuation to Delhi or Bangkok may be necessary.
Find Vets in BhutanExit Rules — Leaving Bhutan
Exit requires a health certificate from a DoL-approved vet. Processing takes 2–3 working days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Technically possible but very unusual. Bhutan's tourism model (Sustainable Development Fee) and limited pet infrastructure make this impractical for short visits.
Very limited. The National Centre for Animal Health in Thimphu offers basic services. No specialist care.
Only Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines serve Paro. Routes from Delhi, Kathmandu, Bangkok, and Singapore. The approach to Paro is famously challenging.
Community Tips
Quarantine is required in Bhutan. Plan ahead and book quarantine facilities well in advance.
Have you moved to Bhutan with your cat? Share your experience and help other travellers.
CatAbroad Editorial
Researched by cat lovers with real international relocation experience. Checked against official government sources and updated regularly. Found an error? Let us know.