Official Import Rules
Thailand requires an import permit from the Department of Livestock Development (DLD), an ISO microchip, current rabies vaccination, current Feline Panleukopenia (FPV/FVRCP) vaccination, and an official government-endorsed health certificate.
Apply for the import permit by emailing the Animal Quarantine Station at your port of entry. For Suvarnabhumi Airport, use qsap_bkk_import@dld.go.th.
- Submit the permit request at least 7 working days before departure and no more than 60 days in advance. Thai authorities recommend applying around 30 days before departure.
- The permit is issued by email within 7 working days and is valid for 60 days from issuance.
- The rabies vaccination must be given at least 21 days before departure, and the cat must be at least 12 weeks old at the time of vaccination.
- The health certificate is valid for 10 days after government endorsement. Your cat must arrive in Thailand within that 10-day window.
The health certificate must confirm the cat is free from contagious diseases.
Thailand does not require a rabies titer test.
Medical Roadmap
Microchip
ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip.
Rabies vaccination
Current vaccination required, administered at least 21 days before departure. The cat must be at least 12 weeks old at time of vaccination.
Feline Panleukopenia (FPV/FVRCP) vaccination
Current vaccination required and must be documented.
Health certificate & government endorsement
The official health certificate must be endorsed by the authorized government veterinary official of the exporting country. It is valid for 10 days after that endorsement — you must arrive in Thailand within that 10-day window.
Import permit
Email the Animal Quarantine Station (AQS) at your port of entry at least 7 working days before departure (no more than 60 days in advance). For Suvarnabhumi Airport: qsap_bkk_import@dld.go.th. Thai authorities recommend applying approximately 30 days before departure. The permit is issued by email within 7 working days and is valid for 60 days from issuance.
Travel
Arrive at designated port with all original documentation.
Preparation Checklist
2 months before
1 month before
10 days before
Travel day
Cost Breakdown
Quarantine Information
None for cats with complete documentation.
City & Housing Tips
Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Pattaya are popular for expats with cats. Thailand is extremely cat-friendly — stray cats are well-tolerated and often community-cared-for. Pet-friendly condos are available on sites like DDProperty and Hipflat. Many condos allow cats (dogs are more restricted). Thailand has a growing network of modern pet hospitals, particularly in Bangkok.
Vets & Common Parasites
Thailand has excellent and very affordable veterinary care. Bangkok in particular has world-class animal hospitals (e.g., Thonglor Pet Hospital, Kasetsart University Veterinary Teaching Hospital). A standard vet visit costs ฿300–800 ($9–24). In Chiang Mai, multiple excellent vet clinics serve the expat community. Common parasites in Thailand: fleas (year-round), ticks, intestinal worms, and heartworm. The tropical climate means year-round parasite prevention is essential. Be aware of Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) — Thailand has higher prevalence.
Find Vets in ThailandExit Rules — Leaving Thailand
Exiting Thailand requires an export health certificate from the DLD and compliance with the destination country's requirements. Visit the DLD office at least 5 days before departure. You'll need your cat's Thai import documents and current vaccination records.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Thailand is very cat-friendly with affordable vet care, warm climate, and a culture that respects cats. Many expats live happily with cats in Thai condos.
No. Thailand does not quarantine cats from any country if documentation is complete.
Yes, but plan ahead. EU countries require rabies titer tests for cats from Thailand (non-listed country). The US is simpler — just a health certificate.
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 Thailand 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.