Moving to the USA with pets – stress-free and animal-friendly DACHSER & KOLB: Consulting, process planning, CDC regulations, partner for professional animal transport.
Moving to the United States of America is often an exciting adventure—and of course, your beloved pet should be part of this new chapter in your life.
The entry requirements for the US, especially the current CDC regulations, are complex and can change quickly. DACHSER & KOLB offers you a clear and up-to-date overview of everything you need to know for a smooth pet relocation to the US.
Moving your pets to the USA with DACHSER & KOLB
If you are taking your beloved pets with you to your new home, coordinated planning and organization of your move is essential. DACHSER & KOLB provides you with comprehensive support: from applying for important documents to arranging special animal transport. We offer you comprehensive additional services and practical tips to help you avoid potential complications.
- The import of pets into the USA is subject to federal regulations—additional requirements may also apply depending on the destination country.
- Airlines often require additional documents and have their own transport conditions, especially when flying with pets.
- Planning ahead can help you avoid stress during travel, customs, and entry, and ensure the health and safety of your pet.
Related topics
- Moving to the USA → Get a quote now!
- US customs regulations → Find out more now
- Emigrating to the USA? → All the important information
- US entry requirements → What you need to know
What are the requirements for moving to the USA with a pet?
Health & Vaccinations
- A valid rabies vaccination is mandatory for dogs and, in some states, also for cats. The initial vaccination must have been administered at least 30 days prior to entry.
- Minimum age according to CDC regulations: dogs at least 6 months old, cats at least 4 months old
- Healthy and fit for transport
EU pet passport & health certificate
- EU passport as the most important proof of rabies vaccination and microchip (for dogs, an ISO 11784/11785-compliant microchip is mandatory). Important: Insert before vaccination!
- Some states do not recognize it, which is why an additional health certificate issued by a veterinarian in English (if necessary, a template from the US Department of Agriculture, USDA) is recommended.
Dog Import Permit & Species Protection
- Dog Import Permit: Due to CDC restrictions, dogs often require a special dog import permit, which can be applied for via the CDC DogBot. Check here for the latest information!
- Species protection (CITES): If you are traveling with more exotic pets (e.g., parrots, certain reptiles), be sure to check the CITES regulations. Special permits from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service are required in these cases.
What is the procedure for entering the United States with an animal?
Step by step towards the USA
Early arrangements (6 to 8 weeks before entry)
- Check regulations: CDC regulations & USDA/states often have their own regulations
- Veterinary check & microchip: Implantation of the chip (ISO 11784/11785-compliant microchip) before the initial or booster rabies vaccination
- Rabies vaccination: At least 30 days before entry and within the validity period of the vaccination
Document procurement & approvals (1 to 3 months in advance)
- Ensure minimum age: Dogs: at least 6 months old; cats: at least 4 months old to meet rabies requirements
- CDC Dog Import Form: official English animal health certificate from an officially approved veterinarian (contents: health status, rabies vaccination, microchip number). The certificate should not be older than 10 days upon entry!
- EU pet passport as additional official proof of vaccinations
Transport preparation & booking (1 to 3 months in advance)
- Book airline and mode of transport: Attention embargo: Find out about any embargoes (airlines often temporarily suspend the transport of dogs to the USA, except as pure air freight).
- Mode of transport: Cabin (PETC) (under 8 kg including crate)/excess baggage or cargo hold (AVIH): Often only possible as air freight via specialized animal transport companies.
- IATA-compliant transport crate: The animal must be able to stand upright, turn around, and lie down (allow time for acclimatization!).
On the day of entry
- Check-in: Presentation of all documents, verification of correct labeling on transport crate
- Arrival in the USA: Customs (Customs and Border Protection, CBP) inspection & CDC/veterinary inspection
Special provisions of the US states
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Please note that each US state may have its own additional requirements.
- Quarantine: The states of Hawaii and the territory of Guam continue to require mandatory quarantine (in some cases for up to 120 days).
- Check the USDA website for the specific regulations of your destination state.
Practical checklist for moving your pets to the USA
✓ At least 2–3 months before moving: Check microchip or have one implanted (ISO standard).
✓ Rabies vaccination & proof of vaccination, if applicable: Ensure this is done for dogs, especially if staying in high-risk areas.
✓ Prepare and complete the CDC Dog Import Form (for dogs) – independent dogs require this form. CDC+1
✓ Health certificate/medical certificate – particularly recommended for cats and when traveling by air.
✓ Contact the airline: clarify transport conditions, minimum age, transport box, and document requirements.
✓ Organize an animal-friendly transport crate & ensure well-being: Air freight or cabin depending on regulations.
✓ Keep travel documents handy: Vaccination certificate, microchip information, import form, health certificate if applicable.
✓ Upon arrival: Report animals upon entry, register with local authorities if necessary, or catch up on vaccinations – depending on the state.
What are the most common questions about moving to the USA with animals?
Does my dog need to be microchipped to enter the USA?
Yes. Dogs entering the United States must be identifiable by an ISO-compliant microchip (transponder). The rabies vaccination must have been administered after the chip was implanted.
What is the minimum age requirement for my dog to fly to the USA?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), dogs entering the United States must be at least 6 months old. For cats, the minimum age is often 4 months due to vaccination requirements.
Do I need any special documents for my dog in addition to the EU pet passport?
Yes, most likely. Due to current CDC regulations for dogs, you will often need a dog import form (import permit). In addition, an English animal health certificate (Certificate of Veterinary Inspection) listing all vaccinations and confirming transportability is strongly recommended.
Do the same rules apply to all US states when traveling with pets?
No. The basic rabies and microchip requirements are set by the CDC, but individual states such as Hawaii and Guam have additional, stricter rules, such as mandatory quarantine. Always check the specific requirements of your destination state.
Can my dog currently fly with me in the aircraft cabin to the USA?
This is currently difficult. Many major airlines have imposed an embargo on the transport of dogs as carry-on or excess baggage due to new CDC restrictions. Please check with your airline in advance. Alternatively, transport as pure air freight via freight forwarders is possible.
Is a rabies vaccination alone sufficient for a dog to enter the country from Germany?
Not always. If you are staying in high-risk areas, additional proof is often required. In many cases, your vaccination card is sufficient—but check the countries of origin and the current regulations.
Why is it worth hiring a professional moving company?
Moving on your own can quickly become a burden—physically, in terms of time, and financially. With an experienced moving company, you not only save time and stress, but also benefit from efficient planning, insured services, trained staff, and customized offers.
Are you planning to move to the USA with pets?
Do you want to move to the USA with your pets, but still need a suitable moving company? Then let us calculate your individual price for your move in seconds. We will then get back to you and do our best to accommodate all your wishes.
Donna Draganov
Teamlead Customer Service & Sales - ROAD
