Moving with a Pet to Taiwan

Moving to Taiwan with a pet involves a series of regulations and procedures that must be carefully followed to ensure a smooth transition for your furry friend. Taiwan has specific vaccination and paperwork requirements, and depending on the pet's country of origin, quarantine may be necessary to prevent the spread of diseases. While pet ownership is becoming more common in Taiwan, especially in urban areas, it's important to note that the process of bringing a pet into the country is quite meticulous. This article will delve into the details of what you need to know about bringing your dog or cat to Taiwan, including prohibited pets, the importation process, and what to do upon arrival to make your pet feel at home in their new environment.

Can I bring my dog to Taiwan?

Yes, you can bring your dog to Taiwan, but you must comply with the country's import requirements. This includes having your dog vaccinated against rabies at least 30 days (but not more than 12 months) before entering Taiwan. Additionally, you'll need to provide a health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian from your home country and apply for an import permit. Depending on the rabies status of the country you are coming from, your dog may also be subject to quarantine for a period of up to 21 days upon arrival in Taiwan.

Can I bring my cat to Taiwan?

Similar to dogs, cats are also allowed entry into Taiwan provided that they meet the necessary health and vaccination criteria. Your cat will need to be vaccinated against rabies and have a health certificate from your home country. An import permit is also required for cats. Quarantine requirements for cats are the same as for dogs and depend on the rabies status of the country of origin. It's essential to ensure all documentation and vaccinations are in order before your cat's arrival in Taiwan.

Pets that are Prohibited from Coming into Taiwan

Taiwan has restrictions on certain breeds of dogs and other exotic pets. For instance, breeds considered aggressive, such as Pit Bulls, American Staffordshire Terriers, and several others, are not allowed to be imported. Additionally, the import of certain reptiles, rodents, and insects is either restricted or prohibited. It's crucial to check the latest regulations from the Bureau of Animal and Plant Health Inspection and Quarantine (BAPHIQ) before attempting to bring any pet to Taiwan.

How do I bring my pet to Taiwan?

To bring your pet to Taiwan, you must start by ensuring your pet is microchipped with an ISO 11784/11785 compliant 15-digit pet microchip. After microchipping, have your pet vaccinated against rabies. You'll then need to obtain a health certificate from a licensed veterinarian and apply for an import permit from BAPHIQ. Depending on your country of origin, a rabies titer test may be required. Make sure to arrange for quarantine if necessary and book a quarantine space in advance. All documents should be in English or accompanied by a certified translation. It's advisable to work closely with a pet relocation specialist to navigate the complexities of the process.

Upon Arriving in Taiwan

After your pet has arrived in Taiwan, you may need to complete a quarantine period. Once cleared, you should register your pet with the local government and obtain a pet license. Finding a veterinarian in Taiwan is relatively easy, especially in larger cities where there are clinics that cater to a variety of pet health needs. Taiwanese people are increasingly embracing pet ownership, and you'll find that dogs and cats are quite popular. Dog parks and pet-friendly spaces are becoming more common, particularly in Taipei. It's important to familiarize yourself with local regulations regarding pets in public areas and housing complexes to ensure a harmonious living situation for you, your pet, and your neighbors.