Collection Point
State Vet office is in the cargo area of OR Tambo. Accompanied pets clear at the arrivals hall. Cargo pets are processed at the Swissport Live Animal Lounge in the cargo precinct.
Dog arrival guide
State Veterinary Services & Swissport Live Animal Lounge
South Africa's primary pet import entry point. Swissport operates a modern Live Animal Lounge providing excellent transit care. South Africa requires an import permit from DALRRD, a veterinary health certificate, valid rabies vaccination, and in some cases a rabies titer test. Processing involves inspection by State Veterinary Services.
Hours
State Vet: Mon–Fri 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Dog-Owner Tip
Apply for the DALRRD import permit well in advance — processing takes several weeks. South Africa has specific requirements per country of origin and may require additional blood tests. No mandatory quarantine for dogs from most countries if documentation is complete.
Facility map
Map the animal facility, not just the passenger terminal.
The critical address is usually the cargo, animal reception, quarantine or border-inspection facility. Use this as a starting map search, then confirm the exact entrance with the airline, facility or receiving agent before travelling.
- AirportJohannesburg OR Tambo (JNB)
- CityJohannesburg, South Africa
- FacilityState Veterinary Services & Swissport Live Animal Lounge
- HoursState Vet: Mon–Fri 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Phone+27 11 394 6563
Before the flight
Send document scans early where the facility offers pre-checks, and confirm whether the airline treats your dog as cabin, checked baggage, AVIH or manifest cargo.
After landing
Wait for clearance updates. Cargo and animal reception facilities are often outside passenger terminals and may need a taxi, car or agent appointment.
What to carry
Bring photo ID, original veterinary documents, microchip details, airway bill numbers, agent contacts and a charged phone.