Official Import Rules
Lebanon requires an ISO microchip, current rabies vaccination, and a government-endorsed veterinary health certificate issued within 10 days of travel. An import permit from the Ministry of Agriculture is recommended but not always enforced.
Documents should be in Arabic, French, or English. Arrival through Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY) Beirut.
Medical Roadmap
Microchip (ISO 11784/11785)
The rabies vaccination must be administered at least 30 days before the cat enters Lebanon, and the vaccination must not be more than 12 months old at the time of entry. The page's own checklist section already states '30+ days,' making the Medical Roadmap step inconsistent with the rest of the page.
Health certificate within 10 days of travel
Government endorsement
No import permit typically required for personal pets
Arrive at Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY) Beirut
Preparation Checklist
2 months before
1 month before
10 days before
Travel day
Cost Breakdown
Quarantine Information
None if documentation complete
City & Housing Tips
Beirut (Achrafieh, Hamra, Verdun) is the main destination. Lebanon has a strong pet culture, particularly in Beirut's cosmopolitan neighbourhoods. Multiple excellent vet clinics. The Lebanese animal welfare community is active and passionate.
Vets & Common Parasites
Good vet care in Beirut with several modern clinics. Some vets are Western-trained. Costs are moderate. Animal welfare organizations like Animals Lebanon provide excellent resources. Outside Beirut, vet care is limited.
Find Vets in LebanonExit Rules — Leaving Lebanon
Exit requires a health certificate from a licensed Lebanese vet. Processing usually 1–2 working days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Very. Beirut has a strong pet culture and active animal welfare community. Many apartments accept cats and the city has multiple excellent vet clinics.
No. Lebanon has relatively straightforward requirements — no titer test, typically no import permit for personal pets, and no quarantine.
Lebanon has experienced instability. Check current conditions before travel and have a contingency plan for your cat in case of rapid departure.
Community Tips
Start the paperwork at least 4–6 months before your travel date. Airline pet policies change frequently — always confirm directly with your carrier close to departure.
Have you moved to Lebanon 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.