BRINGING A DOG FROMUnited Kingdom to Hawaii
Dog · Moving
Bringing a cat instead?Quarantine-exempt areas (British Isles, Australia, New Zealand, Guam): No quarantine when the paperwork is in order. Needs import form, microchip, minimum age, arrival inspection, transport rules, health certificate, residence period, port of entry and other vaccinations.
Always confirm with the destination's official authority and your airline before travelling.
Entry requirements · Quarantine-exempt areas (British Isles, Australia, New Zealand, Guam)
Only the free online CDC Dog Import Form, a microchip and a minimum age of 6 months. No federal rabies vaccine, health certificate, titer or quarantine. Dogs from screwworm-affected countries (e.g. Mexico, Argentina, Singapore) also need an official screwworm certificate. The U.S. state of destination and the airline may ask for more (Hawaii: see the us-hi-* rules).
Pets that have lived for the last 6 months in the British Isles, Australia, New Zealand or Guam are exempt from Hawaii's quarantine if they fly on the same aircraft to Honolulu (or transfer under the airline officer's certified supervision), in a sealed container, with a government vet's health certificate (14 days) and two affidavits. If a condition fails, use the 5 Day Or Less rule or face up to 120 days.
CDC Dog Import Form, filled in online by the person bringing the dog (one form per dog, free). The receipt arrives by e-mail after the e-mail address is confirmed; show it printed or on a phone to the airline before boarding and to U.S. Customs and Border Protection on arrival. From a low-risk country the receipt is valid for 6 months and for several entries from the same departure country; a different departure country or a visit to a high-risk country needs a new form. It can be completed on the day of travel.
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CDC Dog Import Form, filled in online by the person bringing the dog (one form per dog, free). The receipt arrives by e-mail after the e-mail address is confirmed; show it printed or on a phone to the airline before boarding and to U.S. Customs and Border Protection on arrival. From a low-risk country the receipt is valid for 6 months and for several entries from the same departure country; a different departure country or a visit to a high-risk country needs a new form. It can be completed on the day of travel.
Microchip of any brand that a universal scanner can read (if the number does not start with 9, check with the vet that it is readable); implanted before arrival, number entered on the CDC Dog Import Form. A dog without a readable microchip, or whose microchip does not match the documents, is refused and returned.
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Microchip of any brand that a universal scanner can read (if the number does not start with 9, check with the vet that it is readable); implanted before arrival, number entered on the CDC Dog Import Form. A dog without a readable microchip, or whose microchip does not match the documents, is refused and returned.
At least 6 months old on the day of arrival — for every dog, including U.S. dogs coming home. Younger dogs are refused and returned to the country of departure.
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At least 6 months old on the day of arrival — for every dog, including U.S. dogs coming home. Younger dogs are refused and returned to the country of departure.
The dog must appear healthy. Animals are inspected at the port; a dog that looks ill may be held for a veterinary examination and tests at the owner's expense, or refused.
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The dog must appear healthy. Animals are inspected at the port; a dog that looks ill may be held for a veterinary examination and tests at the owner's expense, or refused.
Transported on the same aircraft from the port of origin to Honolulu; off-loading only to transfer to another aircraft under the direct supervision of the officer in charge, who certifies in writing (name, position, airline, address, phone; date, time, aircraft and flight numbers of both flights) that the animal had no contact with other animals. Container sealed so that removing the animal breaks the seal. An affidavit by the aircraft captain or senior station official that the animal came on one aircraft and was not off-loaded.
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Transported on the same aircraft from the port of origin to Honolulu; off-loading only to transfer to another aircraft under the direct supervision of the officer in charge, who certifies in writing (name, position, airline, address, phone; date, time, aircraft and flight numbers of both flights) that the animal had no contact with other animals. Container sealed so that removing the animal breaks the seal. An affidavit by the aircraft captain or senior station official that the animal came on one aircraft and was not off-loaded.
Original official health certificate issued within 14 days of transport by a veterinarian holding an appointment as a government officer of the country (or territory) of origin, certifying the animal is free of external parasites and signs of transmissible disease.
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Original official health certificate issued within 14 days of transport by a veterinarian holding an appointment as a government officer of the country (or territory) of origin, certifying the animal is free of external parasites and signs of transmissible disease.
Original affidavit by the owner or consignor that the animal was not outside the country of origin in the 6 months before shipment (trips to other exempt areas or Hawaii allowed), with airline, flight number and departure date. From Guam: the Guam affidavit form IC-5.
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Original affidavit by the owner or consignor that the animal was not outside the country of origin in the 6 months before shipment (trips to other exempt areas or Hawaii allowed), with airline, flight number and departure date. From Guam: the Guam affidavit form IC-5.
Honolulu, at the Airport Animal Quarantine Holding Facility during inspection hours (8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m. on the checklist); the rule also allows a department-approved neighbour-island port. International flights must clear U.S. Customs first.
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Honolulu, at the Airport Animal Quarantine Holding Facility during inspection hours (8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m. on the checklist); the rule also allows a department-approved neighbour-island port. International flights must clear U.S. Customs first.
Inspected on arrival and may be treated for external parasites; any sign of transmissible disease sends all animals of the shipment into quarantine.
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Inspected on arrival and may be treated for external parasites; any sign of transmissible disease sends all animals of the shipment into quarantine.
Dogs 90 days or older on arrival: vaccinated against canine distemper, infectious hepatitis (or adenovirus-2), parvovirus, parainfluenza and Bordetella bronchiseptica (kennel cough) at least 10 days before arrival and still within the manufacturer's booster interval, certified on the health certificate. Required by the rule (HAR §4-29-8) for every dog entering Hawaii, including by Direct Airport Release; the current checklists do not list these vaccines, so the Station may not check them, but the law does. Leptospirosis is asked only by the 2019 brochure for pets going into quarantine — recommended, not required by the rule.
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Dogs 90 days or older on arrival: vaccinated against canine distemper, infectious hepatitis (or adenovirus-2), parvovirus, parainfluenza and Bordetella bronchiseptica (kennel cough) at least 10 days before arrival and still within the manufacturer's booster interval, certified on the health certificate. Required by the rule (HAR §4-29-8) for every dog entering Hawaii, including by Direct Airport Release; the current checklists do not list these vaccines, so the Station may not check them, but the law does. Leptospirosis is asked only by the 2019 brochure for pets going into quarantine — recommended, not required by the rule.
The rule applies to every entry, even where the checklists do not repeat it. Ask the Station (rabiesfree@hawaii.gov) if in doubt.
- Any U.S. airport, seaport or land border crossing (see the entry points).
- A rabies vaccine is not required by CDC for these dogs, only recommended (states may require one). — U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
- From a country affected by foot-and-mouth disease (APHIS list; most of Africa, Asia and South America) no document is needed, but the dog must arrive clean, be bathed at the destination and kept away from livestock for 5 days. — USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)
- Legal basis for the screwworm certificate. — USDA APHIS regulation, published by the Office of the Federal Register (eCFR)
- A screwworm certificate signed by a private (accredited) vet needs an official vet's countersignature. — USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)
- One receipt covers one dog, several entries from the same country, for 6 months. — U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
- The regulation (42 CFR 71.51(u)) still lists other documents as proof that a dog has been only in low-risk countries; CDC's pages say the Dog Import Form receipt alone is enough since 2024-08-01 ("temporary flexibilities", see upcoming). Follow CDC's pages.
- Preparation time 1 week: an adult dog can be microchipped and the online form filled in the same day; one week allows for a vet visit and, from screwworm-affected countries, the official inspection within 5 days before shipment.
- Dogs from Australia, New Zealand, the UK and Ireland also need the federal CDC rules (all are CDC low-risk: Dog Import Form, microchip, 6 months). A direct flight from Guam is domestic for CDC.
- Exempt status is a Hawaii rule only; a pet from these areas that does not meet every condition (6 months' residence, one aircraft, sealed container) can still qualify under the 5 Day Or Less programme.
- "British Isles" is not defined in the rules; the exempt areas beyond GB (IE, IM, JE, GG) are our reading — confirm with the Animal Quarantine Station (rabiesfree@hawaii.gov).
- The exemption in HAR §4-29-10 is from quarantine only; the pre-shipment requirements of §4-29-8 apply to every dog and cat entering Hawaii, hence the other-vaccination steps. §4-29-8 also asks for a tick treatment with fipronil or similar within 14 days, which the exempt-area checklist does not mention (it says pets are subject to treatment for external parasites on arrival) — ask the Station.
Entry requirements · 5 Day Or Less / Direct Airport Release
Only the free online CDC Dog Import Form, a microchip and a minimum age of 6 months. No federal rabies vaccine, health certificate, titer or quarantine. Dogs from screwworm-affected countries (e.g. Mexico, Argentina, Singapore) also need an official screwworm certificate. The U.S. state of destination and the airline may ask for more (Hawaii: see the us-hi-* rules).
Hawaii is rabies-free. To be released at the airport (Direct Airport Release) or within 5 days: microchip, at least 2 rabies vaccines, a passing OIE-FAVN test with a 30-day wait before arrival, a health certificate and tick treatment within 14 days, papers received by the Animal Quarantine Station 10+ days before arrival (30+ days for Kona, Kahului, Līhu‘e). Anything missing or early: quarantine until met, up to 120 days. Applies to pets from the U.S. mainland too.
CDC Dog Import Form, filled in online by the person bringing the dog (one form per dog, free). The receipt arrives by e-mail after the e-mail address is confirmed; show it printed or on a phone to the airline before boarding and to U.S. Customs and Border Protection on arrival. From a low-risk country the receipt is valid for 6 months and for several entries from the same departure country; a different departure country or a visit to a high-risk country needs a new form. It can be completed on the day of travel.
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CDC Dog Import Form, filled in online by the person bringing the dog (one form per dog, free). The receipt arrives by e-mail after the e-mail address is confirmed; show it printed or on a phone to the airline before boarding and to U.S. Customs and Border Protection on arrival. From a low-risk country the receipt is valid for 6 months and for several entries from the same departure country; a different departure country or a visit to a high-risk country needs a new form. It can be completed on the day of travel.
Microchip of any brand that a universal scanner can read (if the number does not start with 9, check with the vet that it is readable); implanted before arrival, number entered on the CDC Dog Import Form. A dog without a readable microchip, or whose microchip does not match the documents, is refused and returned.
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Microchip of any brand that a universal scanner can read (if the number does not start with 9, check with the vet that it is readable); implanted before arrival, number entered on the CDC Dog Import Form. A dog without a readable microchip, or whose microchip does not match the documents, is refused and returned.
At least 6 months old on the day of arrival — for every dog, including U.S. dogs coming home. Younger dogs are refused and returned to the country of departure.
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At least 6 months old on the day of arrival — for every dog, including U.S. dogs coming home. Younger dogs are refused and returned to the country of departure.
The dog must appear healthy. Animals are inspected at the port; a dog that looks ill may be held for a veterinary examination and tests at the owner's expense, or refused.
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The dog must appear healthy. Animals are inspected at the port; a dog that looks ill may be held for a veterinary examination and tests at the owner's expense, or refused.
Working electronic microchip implanted BEFORE the FAVN blood sample is taken (the lab needs the number); the vet should scan it beforehand. A pet that cannot be identified by scanning goes into 120-day quarantine.
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Working electronic microchip implanted BEFORE the FAVN blood sample is taken (the lab needs the number); the vet should scan it beforehand. A pet that cannot be identified by scanning goes into 120-day quarantine.
implanted before the FAVN blood sample is taken
At least two rabies vaccinations in the pet's lifetime, given more than 30 days apart (for a pet never vaccinated: two vaccines at least 30 days apart; puppies cannot be vaccinated before 3 months with current vaccines).
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At least two rabies vaccinations in the pet's lifetime, given more than 30 days apart (for a pet never vaccinated: two vaccines at least 30 days apart; puppies cannot be vaccinated before 3 months with current vaccines).
more than 30 days after the previous vaccine
The most recent rabies vaccine more than 30 days before arrival and still within its licensed booster interval on arrival (1-year vaccine: 12 months; 3-year vaccine: 36 months). Arriving within 30 days of the last vaccine means quarantine until the 30 days are over. Original certificates (signed in ink) for the 2 most recent vaccines, with vaccine name, lot/serial number, booster interval, date and lot expiry.
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The most recent rabies vaccine more than 30 days before arrival and still within its licensed booster interval on arrival (1-year vaccine: 12 months; 3-year vaccine: 36 months). Arriving within 30 days of the last vaccine means quarantine until the 30 days are over. Original certificates (signed in ink) for the 2 most recent vaccines, with vaccine name, lot/serial number, booster interval, date and lot expiry.
OIE-FAVN rabies antibody test (not RFFIT, not the KSU micro-screen) at Kansas State University, Auburn University, University of Missouri or the DoD laboratory, with "HAWAII" as destination on the submission form; result 0.5 IU/ml or more. The day after the lab RECEIVES the sample must be at least 30 days and at most 36 months before arrival (the 30-day wait). Results go straight to the Animal Quarantine Station and can be checked online; labs report delays of 1–2 months.
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OIE-FAVN rabies antibody test (not RFFIT, not the KSU micro-screen) at Kansas State University, Auburn University, University of Missouri or the DoD laboratory, with "HAWAII" as destination on the submission form; result 0.5 IU/ml or more. The day after the lab RECEIVES the sample must be at least 30 days and at most 36 months before arrival (the 30-day wait). Results go straight to the Animal Quarantine Station and can be checked online; labs report delays of 1–2 months.
counted from the day after the lab received the sample
counted from the day after the lab received the sample
Original health certificate in English issued by a veterinarian within 14 days before arrival, with the microchip number, rabies vaccine details and the tick treatment. It may be mailed with the other documents or handed to the inspector on arrival (photocopies not accepted).
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Original health certificate in English issued by a veterinarian within 14 days before arrival, with the microchip number, rabies vaccine details and the tick treatment. It may be mailed with the other documents or handed to the inspector on arrival (photocopies not accepted).
Since New World screwworm was found in Texas and New Mexico (June 2026), the certificate must carry the statement "All animals were inspected and found free of evidence of New World Screwworm infestation."
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Since New World screwworm was found in Texas and New Mexico (June 2026), the certificate must carry the statement "All animals were inspected and found free of evidence of New World Screwworm infestation."
The page says "animals requiring a CVI"; pets need a health certificate (CVI), so it is read as applying to dogs and cats. The page gives no start date.
Tick treatment by a veterinarian within 14 days before arrival with a long-acting product labelled to kill ticks (e.g. fipronil; Revolution is not accepted); product and date written on the health certificate. A pet with ticks or other parasites on arrival is not released at the airport.
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Tick treatment by a veterinarian within 14 days before arrival with a long-acting product labelled to kill ticks (e.g. fipronil; Revolution is not accepted); product and date written on the health certificate. A pet with ticks or other parasites on arrival is not released at the airport.
Dog & Cat Import Form AQS-279 (one per pet; the legal owner must be named), the original certificates of the 2 most recent rabies vaccines and the fee, received by the Animal Quarantine Station in ‘Aiea at least 10 days before arrival for Direct Airport Release in Honolulu — by tracked mail or online through the Hawai‘i Pet Owner Portal (https://hipop.ais.hawaii.gov/). Late papers: higher fee and possibly no release at the airport.
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Dog & Cat Import Form AQS-279 (one per pet; the legal owner must be named), the original certificates of the 2 most recent rabies vaccines and the fee, received by the Animal Quarantine Station in ‘Aiea at least 10 days before arrival for Direct Airport Release in Honolulu — by tracked mail or online through the Hawai‘i Pet Owner Portal (https://hipop.ais.hawaii.gov/). Late papers: higher fee and possibly no release at the airport.
Honolulu (HNL, Daniel K. Inouye International Airport) — no permit needed. Inspection at the Airport Animal Quarantine Holding Facility 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. daily; flights should land by 3:30 p.m., later arrivals stay overnight. Pets on international flights must first clear U.S. Customs.
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Honolulu (HNL, Daniel K. Inouye International Airport) — no permit needed. Inspection at the Airport Animal Quarantine Holding Facility 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. daily; flights should land by 3:30 p.m., later arrivals stay overnight. Pets on international flights must first clear U.S. Customs.
Neighbor Island Inspection Permit (NIIP) to fly directly to Kona (KOA), Kahului (OGG) or Līhu‘e (LIH): a passing FAVN result first; documents, flight details and the USD 165 fee received 30 days or more before arrival; a reservation with one of the approved private veterinary facilities at that airport, which confirms to the Station (their fee is extra). The permit is e-mailed to the owner and must be shown to the airline before boarding. Not all airlines take part.
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Neighbor Island Inspection Permit (NIIP) to fly directly to Kona (KOA), Kahului (OGG) or Līhu‘e (LIH): a passing FAVN result first; documents, flight details and the USD 165 fee received 30 days or more before arrival; a reservation with one of the approved private veterinary facilities at that airport, which confirms to the Station (their fee is extra). The permit is e-mailed to the owner and must be shown to the airline before boarding. Not all airlines take part.
Airline staff take every pet to the Airport Animal Quarantine Holding Facility for inspection. Released only to the owner, co-owner or authorised handler named on AQS-279 (or the consignee), in its crate — pets may not leave the crate on airport property. No airport release if ticks or other parasites are found.
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Airline staff take every pet to the Airport Animal Quarantine Holding Facility for inspection. Released only to the owner, co-owner or authorised handler named on AQS-279 (or the consignee), in its crate — pets may not leave the crate on airport property. No airport release if ticks or other parasites are found.
Dogs 90 days or older on arrival: vaccinated against canine distemper, infectious hepatitis (or adenovirus-2), parvovirus, parainfluenza and Bordetella bronchiseptica (kennel cough) at least 10 days before arrival and still within the manufacturer's booster interval, certified on the health certificate. Required by the rule (HAR §4-29-8) for every dog entering Hawaii, including by Direct Airport Release; the current checklists do not list these vaccines, so the Station may not check them, but the law does. Leptospirosis is asked only by the 2019 brochure for pets going into quarantine — recommended, not required by the rule.
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Dogs 90 days or older on arrival: vaccinated against canine distemper, infectious hepatitis (or adenovirus-2), parvovirus, parainfluenza and Bordetella bronchiseptica (kennel cough) at least 10 days before arrival and still within the manufacturer's booster interval, certified on the health certificate. Required by the rule (HAR §4-29-8) for every dog entering Hawaii, including by Direct Airport Release; the current checklists do not list these vaccines, so the Station may not check them, but the law does. Leptospirosis is asked only by the 2019 brochure for pets going into quarantine — recommended, not required by the rule.
The rule applies to every entry, even where the checklists do not repeat it. Ask the Station (rabiesfree@hawaii.gov) if in doubt.
- Any U.S. airport, seaport or land border crossing (see the entry points).
- A rabies vaccine is not required by CDC for these dogs, only recommended (states may require one). — U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
- From a country affected by foot-and-mouth disease (APHIS list; most of Africa, Asia and South America) no document is needed, but the dog must arrive clean, be bathed at the destination and kept away from livestock for 5 days. — USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)
- Legal basis for the screwworm certificate. — USDA APHIS regulation, published by the Office of the Federal Register (eCFR)
- A screwworm certificate signed by a private (accredited) vet needs an official vet's countersignature. — USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)
- One receipt covers one dog, several entries from the same country, for 6 months. — U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
- The regulation (42 CFR 71.51(u)) still lists other documents as proof that a dog has been only in low-risk countries; CDC's pages say the Dog Import Form receipt alone is enough since 2024-08-01 ("temporary flexibilities", see upcoming). Follow CDC's pages.
- Preparation time 1 week: an adult dog can be microchipped and the online form filled in the same day; one week allows for a vet visit and, from screwworm-affected countries, the official inspection within 5 days before shipment.
- Microchip standard accepted by Hawaii (vet summary AQS-39). — Hawaii Department of Agriculture (now Agriculture and Biosecurity), Rabies Quarantine Branch
- The Neighbor Island Inspection Permit must be shown to the airline before boarding. — Hawaii Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity, Animal Quarantine Branch
- Puppies and kittens: in practice about 6 months old before they can qualify; younger ones do 120 days. — Hawaii Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity, Animal Quarantine Branch
- Dogs from abroad also need the federal CDC rules. A foreign-vaccinated dog that has been in a CDC high-risk country cannot fly into Hawaii directly: it must enter through a mainland airport with a CDC facility first. — U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
- The rules also allow a pet with 3 or more rabies vaccines to have the latest one less than 30 days before arrival, and a shorter wait for pets with two or more passing FAVN tests — not on the checklists; ask the Station. — State of Hawaii, Department of Agriculture (Board of Agriculture)
- Arriving before the 30-day wait is over means waiting in quarantine only for the rest of that period (then release under 5 Day Or Less), not a new 120-day wait. The department's "Quarantine FAQs" still say "120-day waiting period" and "90 days" after the last rabies vaccine — text from before the 2018 amendment of the rule. — State of Hawaii, Department of Agriculture (Board of Agriculture)
- The 2018 amendment replaced the old 120-day waiting period with 30 days (the Ramseyer draft shows the deleted words in brackets). — State of Hawaii, Department of Agriculture (now Agriculture and Biosecurity), Animal Industry Division
- Pregnant animals should not be shipped (the brochure says they are prohibited). — Hawaii Department of Agriculture (now Agriculture and Biosecurity), Animal Quarantine Branch
- Preparation time 9 weeks (fastest, adult pet, standing start): microchip + 1st rabies vaccine on day 0, FAVN blood sample about 3 weeks later, 2nd vaccine after day 30, arrival more than 30 days after the 2nd vaccine and at least 30 days after the lab received the sample. FAVN labs report 1–2 month delays, so plan 3–4 months.
No quarantine when the paperwork is in order
If the pet does not meet the rules: quarantine of up to 120 days
Timeline
Working out your dates…
Documents
One paper per requirement above; carry originals. 0 of 4 ready.
Official fees
Fees the authorities publish for this route, in their own currency. Vet and airline charges are not included.
- CDC Dog Import Form
- USD 0 per animal
- exempt entry
- USD 45 per animal
- each additional day after arrival until release
- USD 14.30 per day
Entry points
Where a pet may enter the Hawaii, per the rules.
- DOGAny point of entry.
- Airports: HNLInspection at the Airport Animal Quarantine Holding Facility; pets on international flights clear U.S. Customs first. For exempt-area pets the rule also allows a department-approved neighbour-island port.
Breed bans
Add the breed to your link (Edit route) and the checklist refuses a banned type.
- IMPORT BAN · Hawaiiwolf, wolf cross, Dingo"etc." — the list is not exhaustive; the ban is enforced under Plant Quarantine rules (HAR 4-71), not researched.
Airlines
Airline rules are separate from entry rules and change without notice — confirm in writing when you book. Only what the carriers' own pages say, read 25 Sep 2026. All airlines
- Lufthansa LHCabinYesHoldYesSnub-nosedHold: no · Cargo: restricted
- Emirates EKCabinNoHoldYesSnub-nosedCargo: only Nov – Apr
- CabinNoHoldYes, up to 45 kg incl. crateSnub-nosedHold: not 1 May – 31 Oct
- Qantas QFCabinNoHoldCargo onlySnub-nosedNot stated
- CabinYesHoldNoSnub-nosedHold, cargo: no
- CabinYes, up to 8 kg incl. carrier46 × 28 × 24 cmHoldYes, up to 75 kg incl. crateSnub-nosedHold: no
- CabinYes, up to 8 kg incl. carrier46 × 28 × 24 cmHoldYes, up to 75 kg incl. crateSnub-nosedHold: no · Cargo: restricted
- CabinNoHoldCargo onlySnub-nosedCargo: restricted
- CabinNoHoldYes, up to 75 kg incl. crateSnub-nosedHold: restricted
Announced changes
- DATE NOT ANNOUNCEDCDC is preparing a proposed rule (RIN 0920-AA87, "Dog Importation") to revise 42 CFR 71.51, mainly to write the current simplified treatment of dogs from low-risk and rabies-free countries (CDC Dog Import Form receipt only) into the regulation. The 2026 Unified Agenda planned the proposal for July 2026; none was published by 2026-09-25 (Federal Register checked). No date of effect.
Return trip to United Kingdom
Moderate for a returning pet (no separate returning-resident rule; standard import rules apply), about 4 weeks of preparation. No quarantine when the paperwork is in order.
Source:Defra / APHA (GOV.UK) (opens official site: Put your pet in rabies quarantine)· checked 04 Oct 2026
Full checklist for a dog from Hawaii to United Kingdom
Leaving Hawaii with the pet
- Taking a U.S.-vaccinated dog to a CDC high-risk country and back: have a USDA-accredited vet complete the CDC Certification of U.S.-issued Rabies Vaccination and get it endorsed by USDA BEFORE leaving; it cannot be issued afterwards.
- Pets living in Hawaii must finish the rabies vaccines and pass the FAVN test before leaving the state to avoid quarantine on return.
- Taking a dog to Mexico (or any other screwworm-affected country) and back: on return it needs the screwworm certificate (inspection within 5 days before shipment). From Mexico a SENASICA-trained and approved clinical vet may sign it (SENASICA's MVRA directory).
- Export papers for the destination country (USDA APHIS endorsement of the health certificate) were not researched.
Questions about the Hawaii
Answered in plain words from the authorities' own pages, each linked to its source.
01Which form must I have for my dog to enter the United States?
Every dog entering or returning to the U.S. needs a CDC Dog Import Form receipt.
02What are the entry requirements for dogs from rabies-free or low-risk countries?
These dogs must be at least 6 months old, have a microchip, and appear healthy. They also need a CDC Dog Import Form receipt.
03Which ports of entry can my dog use if it has been in a high-risk country?
Dogs with foreign rabies vaccinations must use a U.S. airport and have a reservation at a CDC-registered animal care facility.
04Can a dog that was in a high-risk country enter the U.S. via a land border?
Only dogs with U.S.-issued rabies vaccinations can enter at land borders. Dogs with foreign vaccinations that were in a high-risk country in the last 6 months are prohibited from using land borders.
05Does my dog need a specific brand of microchip to enter the U.S.?
Any brand is acceptable as long as it can be read by a universal scanner.
06Is there a limit on how many dogs I can bring into the United States?
There is no limit on the number of dogs, but each animal must meet entry requirements and have its own CDC Dog Import Form receipt.
07How old must my dog be to receive its first rabies vaccination?
The first vaccine should be given at 12 weeks (84 days) of age or older, depending on the manufacturer's guidelines. For dogs from high-risk countries, vaccines given before 12 weeks are not accepted.
08What are the arrival requirements for foreign-vaccinated dogs from high-risk countries?
These dogs must arrive by air at a U.S. airport that has a CDC-registered animal care facility and must have a reservation at that facility.
09Can the 28-day quarantine for foreign-vaccinated dogs be reduced?
Quarantine can be reduced for healthy personal pets or service dogs that follow a PSM protocol, which includes a U.S. vaccine and a titer test.
10Can a foreign-vaccinated dog from a high-risk country enter the U.S. through Hawaii or Alaska?
No, because these dogs must enter through airports with CDC-registered animal care facilities, and none currently exist in Hawaii, Alaska, or U.S. territories.
11How long is the CDC Dog Import Form valid for dogs traveling from Canada or Mexico?
The form is valid for six months for multiple entries, provided the country of departure remains the same.
12What is required for a US-vaccinated dog returning from a rabies high-risk country?
If the dog visited a high-risk country within the last 6 months, it needs a "Certification of U.S.-Issued Rabies Vaccination" form. A USDA-accredited veterinarian must submit this before the dog departs the United States.
13How old must a puppy be to enter the United States?
Dogs must be at least 6 months old to meet CDC import requirements.
14Does my dog need a screwworm certificate to enter the US?
This is required for dogs from regions where screwworm is present. The certificate must be signed by a government veterinary official, or by an accredited vet and countersigned by a government official.
15Are there additional rules for bringing a dog into a specific US state?
Yes, importers must ensure their dog follows the rules of the specific US State or Territory they are entering. You can find the relevant agriculture department through the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture.
16How much does it cost to quarantine my pet in Hawaii?
The 120-day program is $1,080 per pet, the 5 Day Or Less program is $244, and direct release is $185. There are no discounts for multiple animals.
17What are the requirements for the 5 Day Or Less quarantine program?
Pets need at least 2 rabies vaccines, with the second given at least 30 days after the first. They must have a microchip and a rabies antibody test (OIE-FAVN) result over 0.5 IU/ml, plus a 30-day waiting period after the lab receives the sample.
18What happens if my pet arrives in Hawaii before the waiting period is over?
The pet will not qualify for the shorter program and must stay in quarantine until the 120-day waiting period after a passed OIE-FAVN test is complete. It must also stay until at least 90 days have passed since the last rabies vaccine.
19Are any dogs or cats exempt from Hawaii's quarantine?
Dogs and cats from Australia, New Zealand, Guam, and the British Isles may be exempt from quarantine.
20What is the process when my pet arrives in Honolulu?
All animals must enter through Honolulu. Airline staff take pets to the Airport Animal Quarantine Holding Facility, where they are placed in indoor kennels with water. They are later moved to the main station in Hālawa Valley.
21Can I send my pet to Hawaii before I arrive?
Yes, but you should send a notarized Dog and Cat Import Form (AQS-279) in advance. The pet's carrier must be labeled with the full names, addresses, and phone numbers of the owners.
22What are the requirements for the 120-day quarantine program?
You need a health certificate from an accredited vet issued within 14 days of arrival. Pets should have current rabies and standard vaccinations, be free of parasites, and have been treated for external parasites and ticks.
23Can my pet be quarantined on islands other than Oahu?
Pets can be quarantined at satellite kennels, but they must first be taken to the Oahu station for identification and examination.
24What options are available if my pet has a medical condition that makes quarantine difficult?
You can ask to have your pet stay at an approved animal hospital instead.
25What must I do to avoid extended quarantine when bringing a resident Hawaii pet back from vacation?
To avoid a long quarantine, resident pets must follow the rules for the 5-day-or-less program.
26What are the rules if my pet is transiting through Hawaii for a short vacation?
Pets in transit must remain in quarantine throughout the visit. They also need a health certificate from an accredited vet issued within 14 days before arriving in Honolulu.
27When and how can I visit my pet while it is in quarantine?
Visits are permitted on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays during specific afternoon hours.
28When must I submit original documents to get my pet released directly at the airport?
You must send the original paperwork so the office has it at least 10 days before your pet arrives. Only the health certificate is allowed to arrive with the animal.
29How long does it take to process a pet for direct release at the airport?
Processing usually takes within an hour of the facility receiving the pet, though airlines may take an hour or more to deliver them. It is recommended to allow 4 to 5 hours for connecting flights.
30What happens if I cannot pick up my pet from the airport immediately?
Pets not released directly are taken to the main Animal Quarantine Station. A stay of 0 to 5 days costs $244, with additional days costing $17.80 per day.
31What are the rules for Hawaii residents bringing their pets back from vacation?
Pets need two rabies vaccinations at least 30 days apart, with the last one at least 14 days before leaving Hawaii. A passed OIE-FAVN test is also required at least 14 days before departure.
32What should I do if I cannot provide documentation for the first rabies vaccination?
To qualify for the 5 Day Or Less program, the pet must get a booster at least 30 days after the previous shot. This second vaccine must be administered more than 30 days before arriving in Hawaii.
33Does my dog or cat need tick treatment to enter Hawaii?
Yes, a vet must apply a long-acting topical or oral tick product (Fipronil or better) within 14 days of arrival. This must be noted on the health certificate; Revolution is not accepted.
34How long is an OIE-FAVN rabies blood test result valid?
The result is valid for 36 months from the date the laboratory received the blood sample.
35How can I pay the entry fees at the airport?
You can pay using cash, travelers checks, Mastercard, or VISA. Alternatively, you can send a money order or cashier's check more than 10 days before arrival.
36Do I need to register with an approved veterinary hospital for direct release?
Registration is not required if your pet is qualifying for direct release. However, you must register with an approved hospital if the pet needs to be held for a significant amount of time.
What they actually checked at the border
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Every requirement above comes from one of these pages. Last researched 25 Sep 2026. Seen a change? Tell us.
- Entry Requirements for Dogs from Dog-Rabies Free or Low-Risk Countries (opens official site)U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) · used for: import form, microchip, which origins the rule covers, quarantine, official fees, entry points, this route · checked 04 Oct 2026 · document dated 2024-07-22
- 42 CFR 71.51 — Dogs and cats (opens official site)HHS / CDC regulation, published by the Office of the Federal Register (eCFR) · used for: minimum age, arrival inspection, this route · checked 04 Oct 2026 · document dated 2024-08-01
- Checklist for Pets Arriving from British Isles, Australia, Guam and New Zealand (PDF) (opens official site)Hawaii Department of Agriculture (now Agriculture and Biosecurity), Animal Quarantine Station · used for: transport rules, health certificate, residence period, port of entry, arrival inspection, official fees, this route · checked 04 Oct 2026 · document dated 2020-05-11
- Hawaii Administrative Rules chapter 4-29 — Dogs, Cats, and Other Carnivores (amended and compiled 2018) (scanned PDF, OCR) (opens official site)State of Hawaii, Department of Agriculture (Board of Agriculture) · used for: other vaccinations, which origins the rule covers, quarantine, this route, notes · checked 25 Sep 2026 · document dated 2018-08-31
- HAR chapter 4-29 — proposed Amendment and Compilation (Ramseyer draft, text layer), §§4-29-5, 4-29-8, 4-29-8.1, 4-29-10 (PDF) (opens official site)State of Hawaii, Department of Agriculture (now Agriculture and Biosecurity), Animal Industry Division · used for: other vaccinations, which origins the rule covers, this route, notes · checked 04 Oct 2026 · document dated 2018-02-28
- High-Risk Countries for Dog Rabies (opens official site)U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) · used for: notes, this route · checked 04 Oct 2026 · document dated 2026-04-15
- Bring a Pet Dog into the United States (opens official site)USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) · used for: notes, this route · checked 04 Oct 2026 · document dated 2026-04-01
- 9 CFR 93.600 — Importation of dogs (opens official site)USDA APHIS regulation, published by the Office of the Federal Register (eCFR) · used for: notes, this route · checked 04 Oct 2026 · document dated 2021-08-16
- FAQ: Importing Pet Dogs into the United States (opens official site)USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) · used for: notes, this route · checked 04 Oct 2026 · document dated 2026-06-07
- CDC Dog Import Form and Instructions (opens official site)U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) · used for: notes, this route · checked 04 Oct 2026 · document dated 2026-04-28
- Animal Quarantine Information Page (Updated) (opens official site)Hawaii Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity, Animal Quarantine Branch · used for: entry points, this route, health certificate, port of entry, quarantine, official fees, notes, breed bans · checked 04 Oct 2026
- Checklist 1 for Direct Airport Release (DAR) & 5 Day Or Less Program — HNL Honolulu (PDF) (opens official site)Hawaii Department of Agriculture (now Agriculture and Biosecurity), Animal Quarantine Station · used for: microchip, second rabies vaccination, rabies vaccination, rabies antibody (titer) test, health certificate, parasite treatment, advance notice to the authority, arrival inspection, official fees, this route · checked 04 Oct 2026 · document dated 2023-06-13
- Checklist 2 for Requesting Direct Airport Release at Kona, Kahului and Lihue Airports (PDF) (opens official site)Hawaii Department of Agriculture (now Agriculture and Biosecurity), Animal Quarantine Station · used for: import permit, this route · checked 04 Oct 2026 · document dated 2024-01-17
- FAQ – 5 Day Or Less Program (Updated) (opens official site)Hawaii Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity, Animal Quarantine Branch · used for: quarantine, this route · checked 04 Oct 2026 · document dated 2018-10-01
- Quarantine FAQs (Updated) (opens official site)Hawaii Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity, Animal Quarantine Branch · used for: official fees, this route · checked 25 Sep 2026 · document dated 2021-05-27
- AQS-39 Summary for Veterinarians — 5 Day Or Less program (PDF) (opens official site)Hawaii Department of Agriculture (now Agriculture and Biosecurity), Rabies Quarantine Branch · used for: notes, this route · checked 04 Oct 2026 · document dated 2019-08-21
- Frequently Asked Questions on Dog Importations (opens official site)U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) · used for: notes, this route · checked 04 Oct 2026 · document dated 2026-08-27
- Hawai‘i Rabies Quarantine Information Brochure (Updated 8/2019) (PDF) (opens official site)Hawaii Department of Agriculture (now Agriculture and Biosecurity), Animal Quarantine Branch · used for: notes, this route · checked 04 Oct 2026 · document dated 2019-08-01
- Unified Agenda 2026 — HHS/CDC item 44: Control of Communicable Diseases; Foreign Quarantine: Dog Importation (RIN 0920-AA87) (opens official site)Regulatory Information Service Center / HHS, Federal Register · used for: announced changes · checked 04 Oct 2026 · document dated 2026-08-14
- Put your pet in rabies quarantine (opens official site)Defra / APHA (GOV.UK) · used for: return trip · checked 04 Oct 2026 · document dated 2025-09-08
- Dog Imports: Check Country Disease Status (page and its data file dog-imports-country-disease-status.csv) (opens official site)USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) · used for: leaving with the pet · checked 25 Sep 2026 · document dated 2026-01-21
- Checklist 3 — Only for Dogs and Cats Located in Hawaii that are Departing and Returning (DAR & 5 Day Or Less) (PDF) (opens official site)Hawaii Department of Agriculture (now Agriculture and Biosecurity), Animal Quarantine Station · used for: leaving with the pet · checked 04 Oct 2026 · document dated 2023-06-13
- UPDATE: Import Alert: New World Screwworm Restrictions for Live Animals Originating from or Transiting Mexico (PDF) (opens official site)USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), Veterinary Services · used for: leaving with the pet · checked 04 Oct 2026 · document dated 2025-07-09
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