Introduction
Vietnam handles pet imports through DAH (Department of Animal Health). The two main rules: the rabies vaccine must be at least 30 days old at travel time, and the DAH import permit must be signed off before the flight. Both are straightforward if you plan the timing.
The essentials
- ISO microchip, implanted before vaccine
- Rabies vaccine, given at least 30 days before travel, still valid
- DAH import permit, applied for in advance
- Health Certificate from Thai DLD, within 10 days of flight
- Entry through Hanoi (HAN) or Ho Chi Minh City (SGN)
Convey team's note: The "30 days after vaccine" rule is the most commonly overlooked. If your pet's rabies vaccine is less than 30 days old at the planned flight date, you have to delay.
Routing
Multiple direct flights serve Bangkok–HAN and Bangkok–SGN. Pet cargo policies vary by airline. DAH processes arrivals at the airport — typically same-day clearance with complete documents.
FAQ
Q: Does the 30-day rule mean the vaccine date plus 30 days?
A: Yes — at the flight date, the rabies vaccine must be at least 30 days old and still within validity. Plan vaccines accordingly.
Q: Do I need a titer for Vietnam?
A: Not typically required. Verify with DAH based on your pet's vaccination history.
Q: Is HAN or SGN better for pet arrivals?
A: Both work. HAN tends to have more frequent direct flights from Bangkok; SGN serves the south. Choose based on your final destination city.