Official Import Rules
China has strict and recently updated pet import rules. Only ONE cat or dog per person. Requirements: ISO microchip, rabies vaccination (at least 21 days old), and a rabies titer test (≥0.
5 IU/ml) from an approved laboratory. The health certificate must be endorsed by the origin country's government and then authenticated by the Chinese embassy/consulate. Cats arriving from designated rabies-free countries/regions may be exempt from the titer test.
Since May 2019, cats with valid titer tests are exempt from quarantine. Without a titer test, 30-day quarantine applies. Entry only through designated ports with quarantine facilities.
Medical Roadmap
Microchip (ISO 11784/11785) — must be implanted BEFORE first vaccination
Two rabies vaccinations (second dose 30 days to 1 year after first)
Rabies titer test (≥0.5 IU/ml) from GACC-approved lab
Complete GACC Registration Form
Health certificate within 10 days of travel, endorsed by government
Notify Chinese customs in advance of arrival
One pet per passenger maximum
Arrive at designated port with all documents
Preparation Checklist
6+ months before
3–6 months before
1 month before
10 days before
Travel day
Cost Breakdown
Quarantine Information
30 days (can be reduced to 7 with proper documentation)
City & Housing Tips
Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen have good vet care. China's pet industry is booming, with pet ownership rising rapidly in major cities. Many expat-oriented vet clinics operate in first-tier cities. Dog registration is required with local police; cats have fewer restrictions.
Vets & Common Parasites
Major cities have excellent international-standard vet clinics, some with English-speaking staff. Outside tier-1 cities, quality drops significantly. China has a growing pet healthcare industry. Rabies remains a concern in rural areas.
Find Vets in ChinaExit Rules — Leaving China
Exit requires an Animal Health Certificate from the local Entry-Exit Inspection and Quarantine Bureau (CIQ). Apply at least 7 days before departure. The certificate requires a physical examination of the cat within 7 days of travel. Additional requirements depend on the destination country.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, if from a GACC-designated country (US, EU, Japan, etc.) with two rabies vaccines, a valid titer test, and microchip, your cat can avoid quarantine entirely. Otherwise, 30 days at a GACC facility.
Only one dog or one cat per person per entry. If you have multiple cats, each must be accompanied by a separate adult passenger.
GACC maintains a list of approved laboratories worldwide. In the US, Kansas State University and Auburn University are commonly used. Check the current GACC approved lab list before testing.
Community Tips
Quarantine is required in China. Plan ahead and book quarantine facilities well in advance.
The rabies titer test for China takes time — blood must be drawn at least 30 days after vaccination, and lab results take 2–3 weeks. Don't leave this to the last minute.
Given China's complex import process, many relocators recommend hiring a licensed pet transport agent.
Have you moved to China 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.