Important Update: Hong Kong Pet Import Rules Are Changing (Effective 3 June 2025)

Big news for pet parents: Starting 3 June 2025, Hong Kong will implement updated rules for importing pets. This is especially important if you are relocating from mainland China or other Group IIIA countries.

These new rules change the stakes, not just the paperwork. While the updated regulations bring a shorter quarantine and smoother entry on paper, the actual process has become more technical, time-sensitive, and unforgiving. 

One small mistake, like using the wrong health certificate or arriving at the wrong border point, could mean denied entry, extended quarantine, or even your pet being sent back.

That is why now, more than ever, you need an expert who knows the system inside and out. Because when it comes to your pet’s safety and comfort, there is no room for guesswork.

We know, it sounds overwhelming. But do not worry. We have broken it down below to help you understand what has changed and why working with a professional pet relocation team like Global Paws can make the process smoother and safer for you and your pet.

What Is Changing?

Here is a simplified look at the key changes that will take effect:

1. Mandatory Quarantine (30 Days Minimum)

All pets from Group IIIA countries, even if fully vaccinated and healthy, will now need to undergo at least 30 days of quarantine in a government-run Animal Management Centre in Hong Kong.

This is a significant shift from previous requirements, where home quarantine or shorter holds were sometimes possible.

2. Stricter Rabies Vaccination & Testing Timeline

• Pets must be vaccinated against rabies at least 30 days and no more than 1 year before entering Hong Kong.

  
  

• A rabies antibody blood test is also required, done no earlier than 90 days before departure, with a minimum antibody level of 0.5 IU/ml.

• An AFCD-recognised laboratory must perform the rabies test, and all documents must be appropriately signed and stamped.

Timing is everything here; if you make one misstep, your pet could be denied entry or face extended quarantine.

3. Microchipping Comes First

Your pet’s microchip must be implanted before any rabies vaccination or blood sampling, and the chip must meet international standards (ISO or AVID). If the chip cannot be read on arrival, your pet could be re-chipped or worse, sent back.

In addition to rabies, pets must also be fully vaccinated against core diseases, including:

• Dogs: Canine distemper, infectious canine hepatitis, and parvovirus.

• Cats: Feline panleukopaenia and respiratory disease complex (cat flu).

These vaccines must be given at least 14 days and no more than 1 year before travel.

What Else Should You Know?

1. Pets must be fit for travel and not more than 4 weeks pregnant.

2. Certain breeds, like Pit Bull Terriers, Tosa Inus, and Bengal cats under the 5th generation, are not allowed.

3. You must pre-book your arrival time and transport your pet as manifested cargo because hand-carrying is prohibited here.

   
   

So, What Should You Do Next?

These changes are serious and require careful planning, especially when timing vaccinations, tests, and quarantine bookings.

That is where Global Paws services come in.

We have helped families relocate their pets safely around the world, and we are here to make sense of the red tape, handle the permits, and give you peace of mind from start to finish.

Moving to Hong Kong With Pets? Let’s Do It Right.

If your pet travels to Hong Kong after 3 June 2025, leave nothing to chance. The new rules are strict, and mistakes can be costly or heartbreaking.

Talk to our pet travel experts today, and let’s make sure your best friend gets to Hong Kong safe, healthy, and hassle-free.

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About Global Paws:

Global Paws is a family-owned business with over 20 years of experience in pet travel and relocation. We know your pets are part of your family, and we care for them like they are part of ours. As proud members of the International Pet & Animal Transport Association (IPATA) and certified by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Live Animals Regulations (LAR), we’re committed to making sure they travel safely and comfortably.

What sets us apart is the extra care we provide. Every pet is treated like family, and we make sure their journey is safe and stress-free, no matter where they are headed.

We believe every pet deserves a first-class experience, and we are here to make sure they are comfortable from start to finish. Our experience, backed by IPATA and IATA, gives you peace of mind knowing your pet’s journey is in safe, loving hands.

Then, are you ready to give VIP treatment for your furry friend? Visit our website to book your pet’s dream vacation today!