Egypt (EG)
Egypt is one of the world's oldest civilisations — the land of the Pharaohs, the Great Pyramids of Giza, and the mighty Nile River.
Bringing Pets to Egypt
Requirements, costs and process for relocating with your pets.
Vaccinations
Restricted Breeds
Plus Certain fighting and dangerous dog breeds may be restricted or subject to additional requirements. Contact the Egyptian Embassy or Ministry of Agriculture Veterinary Quarantine Department before travel to confirm current breed restrictions for your specific pet.
💰 Costs
Origin country costs: veterinary health certificate (USD 50–200), government endorsement (USD 50–150), Egyptian consulate legalisation (USD 50–100), microchipping if not done (USD 30–80). Egypt costs: quarantine facility fees (EGP 200–2,000 depending on duration), veterinary inspection (EGP 200–500), vaccination update if needed (EGP 300–800). Ongoing vet care in Egypt: EGP 500–2,000 per routine consultation at a good private vet clinic; imported pet food (EGP 500–2,000/month depending on brand).
🐕 Dog Tax / Registration
Egypt does not have a national dog licensing or dog tax system as of 2026. There is no requirement to register your dog with the municipality for a fee. Some residential compounds have their own pet policies — confirm with building management.
Register with a local veterinarian after arrival — do not wait until you have an emergency. Recommended areas for vet clinics: Maadi, Zamalek, New Cairo, Heliopolis. Cairo has several specialist veterinary hospitals including some 24-hour emergency services. Egyptian Veterinary Medical Syndicate registers local vets. Imported pet food brands (Royal Canin, Hills, Purina) are available in pet shops in Cairo and Alexandria but at premium prices (import tariffs apply). Consider bringing a supply of prescription diets.
📋 Relocation Process
CRITICAL — Egypt is NOT a member of the Hague Apostille Convention. Standard apostille does not apply. The full legalisation chain for all pet import documents: STEP 1: Have your veterinarian issue a health certificate (USDA/UKAS/nationally recognised format). STEP 2: Health certificate endorsed by national veterinary authority (USDA APHIS for US pets, APHA for UK pets, etc.). STEP 3: Authentication by your country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. STEP 4: Legalisation by the Egyptian Embassy or Consulate in your country. STEP 5: Apply for an Import Permit from the Egyptian Ministry of Agriculture Veterinary Quarantine Department (can be applied via Egyptian embassy with the legalised health certificate). STEP 6: Book a pet-friendly flight — most airlines accept pets as checked baggage or cargo; in-cabin only for small pets under 8 kg in most cases. Notify airline at least 2 weeks in advance. STEP 7: On arrival at Cairo Airport, proceed to Veterinary Quarantine inspection area with all original documents. Allow 2–4 hours for processing.
Egyptian culture has a complicated relationship with pets — dogs are often seen as unclean in Islamic tradition, and stray dogs are widespread. Not all buildings or landlords accept pets; specifically negotiate pet permission before signing your lease (get it in writing). Compounds in New Cairo and Sheikh Zayed tend to be more pet-friendly than traditional apartment buildings. Cairo animal welfare organisations (SPARE Egypt, Eshra3 Animal Rescue) can provide local vet recommendations and support. Cats are generally better accepted than dogs culturally. Heat is a real concern — ensure pets have shade, cool water, and never leave them in parked cars. Parasites (fleas, ticks, leishmaniasis sandfly) are more prevalent than in Northern Europe — use veterinary-recommended preventive treatments year-round.