Official Import Rules
Kazakhstan requires an ISO microchip, rabies vaccination (at least 21 days old), and a veterinary health certificate endorsed by the origin country's competent authority. An import permit from the Committee for Veterinary Control may be required. FVRCP vaccination is recommended. Dogs arriving from CIS countries may follow simplified procedures.
Free route planner
Turn these rules into your dog's step-by-step planCabin/cargo call, breed check, crate size and paperwork timing.Medical Roadmap
Microchip
ISO 11784/11785 microchip fitted before the rabies vaccination. The microchip number must match every certificate.
Rabies vaccination
Rabies vaccination must be valid before travel. Most routes require at least 21 days after a primary vaccination.
Health certificate or pet passport
Use an EU pet passport where accepted, or a government-endorsed animal health certificate for this route.
Travel day
Carry originals, confirm airline pet acceptance, and keep the official authority page saved offline.
Breed & Public-Space Rules
No major national breed ban found
Still check airline policies, local rules, insurance requirements and any transit-country restrictions before booking.
Flying In: Cabin, Hold or Cargo
Cost Breakdown
Quarantine Information
None
City & Housing Notes
Almaty is the most liveable city with the best infrastructure and mildest climate. Nursultan (Astana) is the capital with harsh winters. Both have adequate vet care and a small but growing pet community.
Vets & Health After Arrival
Reasonable vet care in Almaty and Astana. Several modern clinics in Almaty. Outside major cities, vet care is very basic. Extreme winter temperatures in Astana (-30°C) require indoor-only dogs.
Leaving Kazakhstan With Your Dog
Exit requires a veterinary certificate from a state vet clinic. Processing takes 3–5 days.
Videos & Route Walkthroughs
Use videos as lived-experience context, not as legal authority. Search for recent dog-owner route reports, airport collection walkthroughs, crate-loading examples and relocation-agent explainers, then verify every rule against the official source above.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Almaty or Astana better for pets?
Almaty by far. Milder climate, better vet infrastructure, and more pet-friendly apartment options. Astana's extreme winters are harsh for pets.
Do I need an import permit?
Requirements vary. CIS-country arrivals may be exempt. Check with the Committee for Veterinary Control before travel.
Is Kazakhstan dog-friendly?
Increasingly so in urban areas. Almaty has a growing pet culture with several modern vet clinics and pet shops.
Community Tips & Nearby Routes
Community reports are useful for practical details such as which cargo desk answers the phone, how long collection took, or whether a landlord asked for insurance. Treat them as tips, then verify rules with the authority and airline.