Official Import Rules
- Pakistan requires a current rabies vaccination, a government-endorsed veterinary health certificate, and an import permit/NOC now transitioning to the newly formed National Agri-trade and Food Safety Authority (NAFSA), which absorbed the former Animal Quarantine Department under the Ministry of National Food Security & Research in 2025.
Travelers should confirm with the ministry whether applications are processed through NAFSA or the legacy AQD during this transition.
- Microchip recommended.
- Health certificate must be issued within 10 days of travel.
- Arrival through Islamabad (ISB), Lahore (LHE), or Karachi (KHI) airports.
- Quarantine inspection on arrival.
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
Confirm airline pet acceptance, cabin or cargo availability, carrier rules, aircraft limits, and destination entry mode before booking.
Cost Breakdown
Quarantine Information
None if documentation complete; confirm current NOC processing authority (NAFSA vs. former AQD) before arrival
City & Housing Notes
Islamabad, Karachi (DHA, Clifton), and Lahore have vet facilities. Pakistan has a growing pet culture, particularly among the urban middle and upper classes. Dog ownership is increasingly popular. Many homes and apartments in upscale areas welcome dogs.
Vets & Health After Arrival
Moderate vet care in major cities. Islamabad and Lahore have several decent clinics. Karachi has the most options. Quality varies widely. Rabies is endemic — keep vaccinations current. Basic medications are affordable but specialist care is limited.
Leaving Pakistan With Your Dog
Exit requires a health certificate from an approved vet. Processing varies — allow 3–5 working days. NOC/import permit applications may now route through NAFSA rather than the former AQD; confirm current processing authority before departure.
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 Pakistan dog-friendly?
Increasingly yes. Dogs hold a respected place in Islamic culture, and urban Pakistan has a growing pet ownership trend. Dog cafes have opened in Islamabad and Lahore.
Is rabies a concern?
Yes, rabies is endemic. Keep vaccinations strictly current and avoid contact with stray animals.
Do I need a No Objection Certificate?
Yes. Apply to the animal quarantine authority at your port of entry. Processing is usually quick but start early to avoid delays.
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.