Official Import Rules
Malaysia requires an ISO microchip, rabies vaccination (at least 30 days and not more than 12 months old), and a veterinary health certificate endorsed by the origin country's competent authority. The process involves two sequential steps with two different agencies. First, DVS pre-approval must be obtained. Then the actual import permit for Peninsular Malaysia and Labuan is issued by the Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services Department (MAQIS) — not DVS — under the Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services Act 2011 (Act 728). This has been the case since 2013. Applications are submitted through the MAQIS e-Permit online system. DVS remains the competent veterinary authority that conducts the risk assessment and grants approval, but MAQIS issues the permit.
Cats must also have current FVRCP vaccination and internal/external parasite treatment. For Peninsular Malaysia, the three approved entry points with quarantine facilities are: KLIA (Sepang), Penang International Airport, and Padang Besar (Perlis-Thailand land border). Kota Kinabalu is relevant only for Sabah, which has its own separate rules and authority. Pets requiring quarantine may only arrive at a point that has quarantine facilities and that matches what is specified on their import permit.
DVS inspection on arrival.
Medical Roadmap
Microchip (ISO 11784/11785)
Rabies vaccination (at least 30 days, not more than 1 year before travel)
Obtain DVS pre-approval, then apply for import permit through the MAQIS e-Permit online system (allow 4–6 weeks processing)
Health certificate dated within 7 days of the date of export
Arrive at an approved entry point with quarantine facilities (KLIA, Penang International Airport, or Padang Besar) as specified on your import permit
7-day minimum quarantine at government facility (cats from the UK, Republic of Ireland, Sweden, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Brunei, and Singapore are exempt from quarantine if healthy and all documentation is in order)
Preparation Checklist
2 months before
1 month before
10 days before
Travel day
Cost Breakdown
Quarantine Information
Cats and dogs from the UK, Republic of Ireland, Sweden, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Brunei, and Singapore are exempt from quarantine, provided the animal is healthy and all documentation is in order. Cats and dogs from all other countries are subject to a minimum 7-day quarantine at a government facility.
City & Housing Tips
Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Johor Bahru have good vet care. Malaysia is reasonably cat-friendly — cats are well-regarded in Malay Muslim culture. Many condos allow cats. Vet care is very affordable.
Vets & Common Parasites
Good veterinary care in cities at very affordable prices. KL has numerous vet clinics including 24-hour emergency services. Tick-borne diseases and heartworm are prevalent — preventive treatments essential.
Find Vets in MalaysiaExit Rules — Leaving Malaysia
Exit requires a health certificate from a DVS-registered vet and an export permit from DVS. Processing takes 3–5 working days. Apply at the DVS office nearest to your location.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not for all countries. Cats and dogs from the UK, Republic of Ireland, Sweden, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Brunei, and Singapore are exempt from quarantine provided the animal is healthy and all documentation is in order. Cats and dogs from all other countries are subject to a minimum 7-day quarantine at a government facility.
Yes. Cats hold a special place in Malaysian culture, particularly among the Malay Muslim community. The city of Kuching literally means 'Cat City'.
The process involves two steps. First, obtain DVS pre-approval — DVS conducts the risk assessment and grants approval. Then the actual import permit for Peninsular Malaysia and Labuan is issued by MAQIS (Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services Department) through their e-Permit online system. Allow 4–6 weeks for processing. You will need your cat's vaccination records and health details.
Community Tips
Quarantine is required in Malaysia for most countries. Plan ahead and book quarantine facilities well in advance.
Have you moved to Malaysia 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.