Philippines (PH)
The Philippines is a Southeast Asian archipelago of 7,641 islands, the third-largest English-speaking country in the world, and one of the most welcoming destinations for expats.
Bringing Pets to Philippines
Requirements, costs and process for relocating with your pets.
Quarantine duration: 7–30 days depending on country of origin and Philippines Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) assessment. Pets from rabies-free countries with proper documentation may have reduced quarantine. Quarantine at approved government facility — expensive (₱500–₱1,500/day). Contact BAI at least 3 months before travel.
Vaccinations
Restricted Breeds
Plus Specific dangerous breed ordinances vary by LGU — check your destination barangay/city rules
💰 Costs
Import permit: ₱600 (BAI). Quarantine facility: ₱500–₱1,500/day (typically 7 days minimum). Vet inspections: ₱500–₱1,500. Airline pet transport cargo: $300–$1,500 USD depending on airline and origin. IATA-compliant carrier: ₱2,000–₱8,000. Total estimated arrival cost: ₱15,000–₱50,000.
📋 Relocation Process
Step 1: Apply for Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) Import Permit at least 30 days before arrival (online at bar.gov.ph/bai). Step 2: Ensure all vaccinations are current and microchip implanted before departure. Step 3: Get official health certificate from accredited government veterinarian in country of origin (USDA APHIS Form 7001 or equivalent) — Apostille recommended. Step 4: Rabies titre test (FAVN/RFFIT) if required by Philippines BAI assessment. Step 5: Book cargo space with your airline (most pets travel as cargo in the Philippines — cabin-only for very small pets on domestic flights). Step 6: Upon arrival, declare at Bureau of Customs and present to BAI/BQAD (Bureau of Quarantine and Disinfection) for inspection. Step 7: Quarantine at BAI-approved facility. Step 8: After release, register pet with your LGU/barangay.
The Philippines has endemic rabies — keep annual rabies vaccination strictly current. Dogs in tropical Philippines need monthly heartworm prevention (Heartgard or equivalent) — consult your vet immediately on arrival. Parvovirus is endemic — keep vaccination current especially for puppies. Ticks and fleas: year-round prevention essential (NexGard, Bravecto widely available). The Philippines has no native dangerous wildlife that threatens pets outdoors, but monitor for poisonous toads (Bufo marinus — common in gardens) which are toxic to dogs.