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How to complete the Application to Import Cats and Dogs
Obtain the information package relevant to the country for exporting cats and dogs from to Australia before completing your Application to Import.
Checklist for Application to Import Cats and Dogs into Australia 
PDF [31kb] 
Word [55kb]
The Application to Import Cats and Dogs consists of the following sections:
- Importer details
- Exporter details
- Approved Import Permit
- Animal details
- Microchip details
- Medication details
- Other details
- Quarantine accommodation
- Importer declaration
Importer details
With the import of companion animals (cats and dogs), the importer and exporter are frequently one and the same person. It is acceptable to have your name as both the importer and exporter.
The person nominated as the importer is classified as the owner and is responsible for release of the animal from quarantine and all the associated fees involved.
The importer is the only person allowed to visit the animal whilst in quarantine. Only authorised agents by written permission may visit or collect the animal at its intended release date.
The address details must be within Australia and be a physical street address. A PO Box, to be advised or care of the Quarantine Station address in not accepted.
It must also contain an Australian telephone contact number that will be active during the animals stay in Quarantine.
If you do not have an Australian address at the time of application you may use details care of a relative, friend or workplace. This contact should also be advised that you are using their details on the import permit application as we may need to contact them.
Lodging online: please note an email address and a phone and/or mobile number are required in both Importer and Exporter details.
Exporter details
The exporter is the person in the country of export responsible for preparing the animal for export.
The export address details must be within the exporting country and contain a phone, fax or email address should we need to contact you.
If you are using a pet transport company to assist you with the importation of your animal you may use their contact details as the exporter.
Approved Import Permit
Indicate if you require the approved Import Permit to be posted, faxed or emailed to the Importer or Exporter. Only one option will be considered. Note, if email is selected the terms and conditions have to be accepted.
Animal details
Animal call name
Indicate the name your cat or dog will respond to during its' quarantine period - not the pedigree/kennel name.
Age or date of birth
Indicate your cat or dog's age or date of birth. Month and year of birth date is acceptable.
Species
Indicate if your pet is a cat or dog by ticking the appropriate box.
Breed
State the breed of your cat or dog. For mixed breed animals, indicate the breed/s which the cat or dog most closely resembles in appearance.
Cross, Mixed or Mongrel will not be accepted by AQIS as a dog or cat breed.
Sex
Indicate the sex of your cat or dog by ticking the appropriate box.
If pregnant, tick the appropriate box and provide the expected birth date .
Microchip details
Use the boxes provided to indicate the type of microchip and list your cat or dog's microchip number.
Medication details
Indicate if your cat or dog has any ongoing veterinary problems or requires medication. A letter from your pet’s veterinarian will be required.
View the quarantine accommodation page with regards to medicating animals whilst in quarantine as there are strict times to when medication may be administered.
Other details
Country of export
Provide the country that the cat or dog has been living in for the 6 months immediately prior to export.
Australian port of arrival
Indicate the port in which your cat or dog will arrive in Australia.
The port of arrival must be either ‘Kingsford Smith – Sydney’, ‘Tullamarine - Melbourne’ or ‘Perth International - Perth’. This is dependant on your quarantine station selection.
Quarantine accommodation
(Does not apply to cats and dogs from Norfolk Island)
Specify the preference of the quarantine station to accommodate your pet and be aware of the availability restrictions at the stations.
Shared accommodation
Complete this section should you wish for two of your animals of the same species to share quarantine accommodation owned by you.
Animals must be from the same importer and exporter and arrive in Australia at the same time. AQIS may use its discretion to separate animals whilst in quarantine if problems occur with sharing.
Importer declaration
The importer declaration outlines the legal obligation of the individual that is applying for the Import Permit and must be completed and signed by all applicants.
Read carefully before signing the declaration.
Payment details
Attach a completed credit card payment form or bank cheque. Tick the appropriate box.
Lodging Online: the application fee is $75.00 and other charges may apply. Please refer to the Fees for Cat and Dog Applications to ensure you have authorised sufficient payment.
