We give you the ins and outs of relocating to Qatar with your pets.
1 October 2014
| Last updated on 19 June 2017Getting your precious furry (or scaly) ‘family’ member in Qatar comes with a strict yet easy to follow guidelines. Dogs and cats are the most prominent animals imported, including some exotic animals.
It is important to note that your pets are not allowed to be at certain public areas like parks and beaches. Moreover, Qatari landlords may also forbid bringing in animals in their properties. It’s important for you consider if your accommodation allows for animals in the vicinity this before going through with the process; otherwise you may have to reconsider the move or the property you'll be moving into.
Pets to be imported should not be less than four months old and they should’ve been microchipped. It’s also necessary for them to wear their collars.
If you’re just on your way to Qatar, it’s likely that you would have to leave your pet behind for a while. Once in the country, you will have to get an import permit, which is valid for one month from the Qatar Department of Animal Resources.
Department of Animal Resources Department
Address: Corner of E Ring Road/Airport Road, Doha, Qatar
Tel: 4456 0435
Opening hours: Sunday to Thursday 7am to 1pm
Website
You will need the following documents:
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Copy of owner’s Passport, and original
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Health certificate of your pet not older than 14 days
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Copy of the pet’s current vaccination record, rabies certificate is required for all animals. Vaccinations should’ve been given at least 30 days before departure.
o Dogs: Leptospirosis, Parainfluenza, Parovirus, Distemper and Hepatitis
o Cats: Calcivirus, Rhinotracheitis, panleikopaenia
Alternatively, you can ask your sponsor to go apply for the permit before your arrive. Take note of the permit’s short validity so it’s important you time it perfectly with your departure and arrival in the country. It is also possible to arrange with a pet relocation service in Qatar or your home country, who will go through with the paperwork and necessary logistics to make sure you and your pet are able to arrive safely together
After securing the paperwork, your pet will have to travel inside an IATA approved travel kennel. It comes in various sizes. These can be bought or arranged with a pet relocation service. Airlines will have different regulations about travelling with pets; it will be best if you check with them beforehand.
There is no quarantine period in Qatar, however Animals are kept at special facility at the Doha International Airport until the owner clears customs.