Tailtrip / Routes / United States or European Union → Australia

Bringing a dog or cat from the USA or the EU to Australia in 2026: rules and timeline

Plan at least 200 days if your pet still needs a microchip or rabies vaccine. A pet that is already vaccinated needs the same time. Quarantine on arrival: at least 10 days at Mickleham, Melbourne.

Minimum from scratch

200 days

If already vaccinated

200 days

Quarantine

at least 10 days at Mickleham, Melbourne

Last checked

3 November 2026

Steps, in order

1. Start nowMicrochip (ISO 11784/11785), implanted before or at the same visit as the rabies vaccineSkip if already chipped and vaccinated
2. With or after the microchipRabies vaccine (inactivated or recombinant)Skip if already chipped and vaccinated
3. 30 days after the rabies vaccineRabies blood test (RNATT) at an approved lab, then at least 180 days before export
4. 14 days after the blood testApply for the import permit through BICON (usually 20 to 40 business days), then book quarantine Official page
5. 45 days before travelLeishmania test, and Brucella canis test for intact dogs, within 45 days of exportDogs only
6. 5 days before travelGovernment-endorsed health certificate as set out in your permit

Already vaccinated? The blood test and the 180-day wait still apply, so the plan stays the same length.