The most common reason pets are denied entry at Beijing Capital Airport is not rabies titers or health certificates.
If you are relocating to China, this protocol will transition your pet from a source of anxiety into a managed logistical task. The following checklist is based on the official requirements of the General Administration of Customs of China and USDA-APHIS regulations, updated for 2025.
Core Principle and Initial Verification
China's pet import policy functions as a biosecurity protocol. Your objective is to document your pet's health and vaccination history to the standard required for entry without quarantine.
Your first critical action is to verify destination city regulations. National policy permits pet entry, but municipal rules override them.
- Contact your destination city's Exit-Entry Bureau or your employer's HR department.
- Confirm specific breed bans. National regulations prohibit Pit Bull Terriers, Japanese Tosas, Dogo Argentinos, and Fila Brasileiros. Cities like Shanghai may also ban Staffordshire Terriers.
- Confirm dog licensing limits. Beijing and Shanghai enforce a one-dog policy per household.
Start this process 6-7 months before your flight. A 4-month timeline is the absolute minimum and carries significant risk.
The Relocation Protocol: 6-Month Master Checklist
Execute these phases in sequence.
6-7 Months Pre-Departure
First, confirm your pet has an ISO 11784/11785 15-digit microchip. Have your veterinarian scan the chip. If non-compliant, implant a new one. Bringing your own compatible scanner is not recommended due to potential operator error at entry.
Second, locate a USDA-Accredited Veterinarian. Use the USDA's official search tool. Your regular veterinarian is not authorized to complete the final health certificate for China.
4-5 Months Pre-Departure
This is the most time-critical step. Delays here will postpone your move.
Begin with a rabies vaccination administered after microchip implantation. The microchip number and implantation date must be recorded on the vaccination certificate.
Next, your vet will draw blood for the Rabies FAVN Titer Test. The serum is sent to an approved lab, such as Kansas State University. The result must be ≥0.5 IU/ml.
Eight weeks after the blood draw, contact the testing lab directly to confirm they have your sample and check the processing status. The full process from draw to result typically consumes 3-4 months.
1-2 Months Pre-Departure
Secure your official Titer Test Report and file the original. You will submit a copy to the USDA.
Your USDA-accredited vet must complete China's veterinary health certificate within 14 days of your arrival date. This window is strict and allows no exceptions.
Immediately overnight the following documents to your regional USDA APHIS office for endorsement: the signed health certificate, rabies certificate, titer test report, and a prepaid return shipping label. The current endorsement fee is $121.
Book your pet's travel with the airline, securing written confirmation. For pets traveling as cargo, a direct flight is non-negotiable. Airlines like Lufthansa and Korean Air maintain dedicated animal facilities at their hub airports.
Begin acclimating your pet to an IAATA-compliant crate. The crate must allow your pet to stand, turn, and lie down without touching the sides. Attach a "LIVE ANIMAL" sticker and a bag of food to the exterior.
Final 72 Hours
Conduct a final fitness-to-fly check with your veterinarian.
Assemble your document portfolio: include the USDA-endorsed health certificate, rabies certificate, titer test report, and airline confirmation. Prepare two copies of each document.
Pack a pet carry-on kit containing a collapsible bowl, sealed kibble, a leash, and a familiar toy.
Airline Selection and Crate Standards
For in-cabin travel, which is available for cats and dogs under 8kg including carrier, you must reserve a spot when booking your ticket.
For larger animals traveling as checked manifest cargo, note that the hold is pressurized and climate-controlled. A direct flight is essential to prevent mishandling during layovers.
Your crate must be IAATA-compliant. Line the interior with an absorbent puppy pad and avoid loose bedding that can shift during transit.
Arrival Protocol: Beijing/Shanghai Airport
First, on your customs declaration form, you must tick "YES" for animals.
Then proceed directly to the Airport Animal and Plant Quarantine office. Present your original document portfolio to the officer, who will scan your pet's microchip and conduct a visual inspection.
With fully compliant paperwork, your pet will be cleared for immediate entry. Quarantine is waived for pets from approved countries that meet all requirements.
If the officer identifies a problem:
- Remain calm and polite
- Ask the officer to specify the exact discrepancy
- If a document is questioned, provide your copies
Have contact information for a local pet relocation agent or your company's HR representative available to assist with communication
Post-Arrival Integration
Secure veterinary care through established clinics like the International Center for Veterinary Services in Beijing or Shangelao Pet Hospital in Shanghai. Their staff are proficient in English and import protocols.
Acquire supplies using e-commerce platforms Taobao and JD.com to source food and supplies. Avoid shipping large quantities from abroad.
For local registration, your landlord must assist you in registering your dog with the local residence committee.
Immediate Actions
Your move timeline dictates your next step.
If your move is in 6+ months, use the USDA search tool to contact a USDA-accredited veterinarian today.
If your move is in less than 3 months, contact airlines immediately to secure cargo space for your pet. This is your primary bottleneck. Then schedule an emergency appointment with a USDA-accredited vet.
Execute this protocol. The alternative is managed risk.
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