Taking a pet out of Thailand
Pet export from Thailand checklist
Use this as a working checklist while you plan your departure from Pattaya. Allow several months if your destination requires a rabies titer test and waiting period.
Last updated 30 May 2026
This guide was last reviewed on 30 May 2026 against DLD export procedures and published destination-country import rules. Export rules — Thai DLD procedures, destination-country requirements and airline policies — change without notice. Use this as orientation, then confirm every current requirement with the DLD and the destination country's authority before booking.
Before you book anything
- Read the full export guide.
- Identify your destination country's rules — see the country guides on the export hub or our pages for UK, EU, USA and Australia.
- Confirm your airline will carry your pet on your route — airline pet policies.
- Budget with our export cost guide.
Start early (destination timing)
- Rabies titer test — if the UK, EU, Australia, Japan or similar is your destination, the blood sample and waiting period often set the timeline. Rabies and titer guide
- Check whether your pet already has a valid titer from before arrival in Thailand.
- Book a relocation agent if the paperwork feels overwhelming.
The Thai export sequence
- ISO microchip — must match every certificate. Microchip guide
- Current rabies vaccination — and other jabs your destination requires.
- DLD export health certificate — issued by an accredited vet in Thailand. Export process guide
- DLD export permit — apply before you fly. Export permit guide
- Destination import permit (if required) — UK, EU, USA, Australia, UAE and others each have their own.
Two weeks before departure
- Re-read every Thai and destination document against current rules.
- Confirm crate size meets IATA rules; book cargo or cabin slot if required.
- Carry copies of every certificate, permit and endorsement in hand luggage.
- Save Suvarnabhumi AQS export contacts from the export process guide.
On departure day
- Allow extra time at the airport for the Animal Quarantine Station export check.
- Keep the pet calm, hydrated and never leave the crate in a hot vehicle.
- Have destination import paperwork ready for landing.
Came the other way? See import checklist.
Frequently asked
How long before departure should I start?
For the UK, EU or Australia, start several months ahead because of the rabies titer test and waiting period. For simpler destinations such as Canada or Russia, the Thai export side still needs weeks of lead time.
Can I print this checklist?
Yes. Use your browser print function on this page. For travel, keep PDF copies of every official certificate and permit instead.