Do I need a NOC to bring my cat to India?

Yes. Apply online through the AQCS portal at least 2 weeks before travel. The NOC is mandatory.

Can my cat fly in the cabin to India?

Yes, most airlines allow cabin pets on flights to India, though availability varies by route.

Is rabies a concern in India?

India has the highest rabies burden globally. Keep your cat vaccinated and avoid contact with stray animals.

Moderate Difficulty

CatAbroad

Complete Cat Import Guide · 2026

India

Vet requirements, airline rules & what to expect at the border

Search Get a Quote

Import Rules Step-by-Step Cost Quarantine City & Housing Vets & Health Exit Rules Videos FAQ Community Tips

Verified February 2026 · Checked against official government sources

Official Import Rules

India requires a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Animal Quarantine & Certification Services (AQCS) obtained online before travel.

Cats need an ISO microchip, current rabies vaccination (at least 30 days old, not older than 12 months), a health certificate from a government-accredited vet, and proof of deworming treatment.

Cats must arrive at designated airports with AQCS facilities (Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore, Kolkata, Hyderabad).

Official AQCS (DAHD) Website

Medical Roadmap

Microchip

ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip.

Rabies vaccination

Current vaccination required, typically at least 21-30 days before travel.

Health certificate

Issued within 10 days of travel by accredited vet.

Government endorsement

May be required — check with destination authority.

Travel

Arrive at designated port with all original documentation.

Cost Breakdown

MicrochipINR 1,000–2,000 ($12–24)

Rabies VaxINR 500–1,500 ($6–18)

Health CertINR 2,000–5,000 ($24–60)

NocINR 500 ($6)

Parasite TreatmentINR 500–1,000 ($6–12)

Flight$200–400 (cabin) / $800–2,500 (cargo)

Crate$50–300

Total Estimate$300–1,000 (from nearby) / $1,000–3,000 (from US/Europe)

Quarantine Information

No quarantine if all documents are in order. The AQCS inspects cats at the airport on arrival.

City & Housing Tips

Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, and Pune have growing pet cultures with excellent vet clinics. Pet-friendly housing can be challenging — many housing societies restrict pets. Websites like MagicBricks and 99acres have pet-friendly filters.

Vets & Common Parasites

Veterinary care varies significantly by city. Major cities have excellent vet hospitals (e.g., Cessna Lifeline, Max Vets). Rural areas have limited options. Common parasites: fleas, ticks, and intestinal worms. Year-round prevention essential. Heat stress is a risk in summer.

Find Vets in India

Exit Rules — Leaving India

Exiting India requires a health certificate from an AQCS-registered vet, endorsed by the AQCS office. Allow 3-5 business days for processing.

Helpful Videos

Frequently Asked Questions

Community Tips

Quarantine is required in India. Plan ahead and book quarantine facilities well in advance.

Have you moved to India 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.

Professional Pet Transport