Taking a pet out of Thailand
The Thailand export permit (DLD)
Before your pet leaves Thailand, the Department of Livestock Development must issue an export permit and health certificate. Here is how that half works.
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, airline policies and CDC/APHA rules — change without notice. Use this as orientation, then confirm every current requirement with the DLD and the destination country’s authority before booking.
What the export permit is
The export permit is issued by the Department of Livestock Development (DLD) through the Animal Quarantine Station (AQS) at your departure airport. It confirms your pet may be exported and is paired with a DLD health certificate after a veterinary inspection.
Start with the destination country
Thailand exports pets to another country’s rules. Before you apply, obtain that country’s import requirements or import permit and show them to the AQS — the Thai health certificate must match what the destination expects. Start with the export process and the destination page in our export guide — for example the UK, the USA, or the EU — and confirm with the foreign authority directly.
When to apply
Official DLD guidance asks you to submit export application form 1/1 at least 15 days before export. In practice, allow more slack — especially if blood tests, a rabies titer test or destination-side paperwork still has to be completed.
The destination country’s timeline is usually the long pole: a titer test plus a three-month wait for the UK or EU can mean starting months before you book the flight.
How to apply
Applications go to the AQS at your port of departure using DLD form 1/1 (export application). For Suvarnabhumi (Bangkok), the usual airport for Pattaya departures, email [email protected] or attend in person at the AQS office on the 1st floor of the Customs Export Building at the airport (Mon–Fri 08:30–12:00 and 13:00–15:30, except Thai public holidays).
An AQS veterinary officer reviews your documents, may examine your pet and/or request tests, then issues the export licence (form 9) and health certificate if everything complies.
What you will typically need
- Completed form 1/1 and a copy of your ID (passport for foreign nationals)
- Your pet’s microchip number and vaccination records
- The destination country’s import permit or written health requirements
- Flight details and consignee details matching all other documents
- Any test results the destination or AQS requires (such as a rabies titer result for the UK or EU)
Keep printed originals of the export permit, health certificate and every supporting document for the airport and the destination border check.
What comes next
Book the flight under airline pet policies, budget in our export cost guide, and consider a pet relocation agent if cargo or a complex destination is involved.
Official sources
Official sources to verify against: DLD export of live animals; Suvarnabhumi AQS export: [email protected] (Mon–Fri 08:30–12:00 and 13:00–15:30, Thai public holidays excepted); UK pet travel; CDC animal import (USA); EU pet movement; Japan MAFF Animal Quarantine; Singapore AVS; UAE MOCCAE pet import; Australia DAFF; New Zealand MPI; Canada CFIA; Switzerland FSVO.
Frequently asked
Can I get the export permit on the day of the flight?
Officially you should apply at least 15 days ahead. Last-minute export is risky — the AQS may need time for inspection or tests, and your destination country may not accept paperwork issued the same day. Plan weeks ahead, not hours.
Do I need an agent for the export permit?
No, but many owners use a pet relocation agent because the Thai endorsement, destination requirements and airline booking must align. For complex destinations it is often worth the fee.