Official Import Rules
Russia requires an ISO microchip, rabies vaccination (at least 20 days old), and a veterinary certificate issued by the competent authority of the exporting country. An EU-format health certificate is accepted from EU countries.
The health certificate must be issued within 5 days of travel. No titer test is required.
Cats must also have current FVRCP vaccination. Up to 2 pets per person can travel as personal pets without an import permit.
Medical Roadmap
Microchip (ISO 11784/11785)
Rabies vaccination (at least 20 days before travel)
FVRCP vaccination (current)
Veterinary certificate within 5 days of travel
Government endorsement
Arrive at Sheremetyevo (SVO), Domodedovo (DME), or Pulkovo (LED)
Preparation Checklist
2 months before
1 month before
10 days before
Travel day
Cost Breakdown
Quarantine Information
None
City & Housing Tips
Moscow (centre, Arbat, Kitay-Gorod) and St Petersburg are cat-friendly cities with excellent vet care. Russian culture has a deep affinity for cats — the Hermitage Museum famously employs dozens of cats. Many apartments allow pets.
Vets & Common Parasites
Good vet care in Moscow and St Petersburg with many modern clinics. Outside major cities, quality varies significantly. Common concerns include extreme winter cold — keep cats indoors. Year-round flea/tick prevention recommended.
Find Vets in RussiaExit Rules — Leaving Russia
Exit requires a veterinary certificate from a state veterinary clinic (gosudarstvennaya veterinarnaya klinika). Processing takes 3–5 days. Some destination countries require additional Russian government endorsement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Very. Russia has one of the strongest cat cultures in the world. The Hermitage Museum cats are world-famous. Most landlords accept cats readily.
Indoor cats are fine with heating. Never let cats outside in winter in northern Russia — temperatures can drop below -30°C. Russian apartments are generally well-heated.
No. Russia does not require a rabies titer test for pet cat imports, making the process simpler than many countries.
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 Russia 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.