CBIC Relaxes Pet Import Regulations: Streamlined Quarantine Clearance for Pet Owners

The Central board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has notified the ease in the regulation of import of pet dog and pet cat under the Live- stock Importation Act, 1898 in respect of facilitation for final Quarantine Clearance.

In a move to facilitate pet owners, the Animal Quarantine and Certification Services (AQCS) will now issue the final No Objection Certificate (NoC) for imported pet dogs and cats on a 24/7 basis at the respective ports of entry. Earlier, pet owners are required to secure an advance NoC from the respective AQCS office before their pet’s arrival by submitting the necessary documentation and providing prior intimation via email regarding the date and time of arrival.

This step eliminates unnecessary delays and ensures pet safety upon arrival.

ln the interest of welfare of pet dog and pet cat as well as facilitation to owners, the final "No Objection Certificate (NoC)" by the concerned AQCS will be issued to imported pet dog and pet cat round the clock at the port of entry itself. However, the owner has to ensure receiving of advance NoC from the respective AQCS after submission of requisite documents and prior intimation of date & time of arrival through email

It may also be noted that import of pet dogs and pet cats is allowed only through the various ports as notified by DAHD namely airports located at Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Kochi; and sea ports or airports located at Mumbai, Chennai and Kolkata.

In addition to the procedures stated in Circular No.35/2020-Customs dated 10.08.2020, the above facilitation measure by AQCS may be brought to the notice of the trade / airlines / carriers by issuing suitable Trade / Public Notices. Suitable Standing order / instructions may be issued for the guidance of the field officers.

Circular Details

Circular No. 07/2025-Customs

Date: 05/03/2025

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