How to import your pets in 8 steps
Few things make a house feel like home more than having your furry family members there with you…or having their hair on your toothbrush and everything else you own. So of course, you’re going to bring your pets along with you when you move to or from Malaysia. They’re your family, after all, and no one gets left behind. It’ll require a little bit of work, but don’t worry, I’ll break it all down for you in 8 easy-to-follow steps. And I’ll provide lots of helpful resources, too.
You can do most of this yourself, with a little help from an import agent to manage the trickier bits, which is the most affordable way to go. Or you can hire a full-service pet relocation company to do it all for you, but it’ll cost you more, and to be honest, they can’t offer you the reassurance of doing everything exactly as you would do it yourself. I’ll cover all the options below, including contacts.
Just so you know that I’m not some robot stringing together links off the interwebs, these are our three cats who we brought with us from California to Malaysia. That’s Waffles (above) in the suitcase. And this is Mango (left), who is the world’s best emergency breakfast alert system. And Long Socks, who wants you to know he’s not fat – he’s “prosperous.” 🙂
When we were moving to Malaysia, I couldn’t find any online resource that outlined the entire process for importing our pets to Malaysia or exporting them from the US, so I got a few “wisdom highlights” (otherwise known as white hairs) while figuring out all the necessary steps. And then I went through it all again when I rescued this adorable dog (below) from a beach in Penang and exported/flew him to a rescue group in California (where he found a great home – that’s him with his new mom).
(Photo credit: Josh Norem)
To save you from incurring “silver streaks of stress,” I’ve compiled all the information here for you and I’ll use examples of our certificates and permits throughout this article. The process is actually pretty easy, and it’s totally worth the effort. Some of the steps may even overlap for you to make things easier, like the health certification/vaccination needs of your export country and that of Malaysia. So let’s dig in, shall we? Here are the 8 steps for importing your pets to Malaysia – scroll down for details on each step:
- Start early
- Check to make sure that your pets meet the import requirements
- Check your airline’s pet transport requirements
- Obtain an import permit from the Malaysian government for each pet
- Get a veterinary certification within 7 days of your pet’s flight, and a 15-digit microchip
- Check with your home country’s Department of Veterinary Services or Department of Agriculture for export requirements
- Book the quarantine stay and visit your pets while they’re in quarantine
- Arrival procedures
And at the end of these steps, I’ll also break down the costs and list pet relocation companies.
So now for the details…
1. Start early!
Depending on your country of origin, the process can take a few months, and there can also be delays due to vaccination needs, illnesses or errors. So start the process as soon as you know you’re going to be relocating.
2. Check to make sure that your pets meet the import requirements.
There’s no limit on the number of pets you can import, but they must all be a minimum of 3 months old.
Certain vaccinations are required for pets being imported to Malaysia, and that list of mandatory vaccines changes frequently, so be sure to ask your import agent about current requirements. (See point #4 below about how to find an import agent). Note that there may be some special out-of-the-ordinary vaccinations that Malaysia requires for your pet, which may take your vet some time to find. For example, the “horse flu” vaccine for dogs is a recent Malaysian requirement that has thrown lots of people for a loop. So be sure to ask your important agent about current vaccination requirements and get your pets vaccinated as soon as you can.
Also, if you have a dog, be sure to check that his/her breed is not banned from Malaysia – here’s the link: dog breeds banned from Malaysia.
Some of those banned breeds include Akita, and “bully breeds” such as Bulldogs and Pit Bulls.
There are also “restricted” dog breeds (also listed in the above link), and if your dog happens to be one of them, you can still import your dog by first obtaining written approval from the Director of State Veterinary Services. To do so, you’ll have to write a letter (or have your import agent do so on your behalf) with the following information:
i. Importer’s name
ii. Importer’s telephone number
iii. Breed of dog
iv. Age of dog
v. Sex
vi. 15-digit Microchip ID number
vii. Country of origin (exporting country)
viii. Pedigree Certificate issued by an approved organization in the exporting country which clearly defines the dog’s microchip ID number
ix. Vaccination record of the dog
x. The residence/premise address in Malaysia where the dog will be placed after import
In the letter, it’s critical that you state that the purpose of importing your dog is because your dog is your pet. (I think this is because they don’t want people to bring in restricted-listed dogs for the purpose of breeding them).
Normally, you’d have to submit that letter to the Director of State Veterinary Services via their website, but at the time of publishing this article, their website has been down for several months. So you may need your import agent submit this letter for you in person. (See section #4 for the names/contacts of import agents).
3. Check your airline’s pet transport requirements.
Most airlines have a section of their websites dedicated to international pet travel. Be sure to check for certain key issues, such as:
- Does the airline require you to have a pet relocation agent? (Some do).
- Can your pet travel in the cabin with you, or must they fly in cargo?
- Pet crate requirements.
- In-crate drinking/feeding kit requirements.
- Restrictions on animal breeds. (For example, Malaysian Airlines won’t transport any snub-nosed dog).
- If your flight has an international transfer, will your pet require a transit permit, and if so, will the airline help you obtain that?
- Fees for transporting your pet.
- Required forms, and veterinary health records/certifications requirements.
4. Obtain an import permit from the Malaysian government for each pet.
Within 30 days of your pet’s flight into Malaysia, you must get an import permit for each pet from the State Director or Director General of Veterinary Services. You’ll need a licensed import agent to apply for this (see below). Your import agent will let you know what is required to obtain the import permit for a pet coming from your country of origin, such as a current copy of your pet’s health records and vaccinations. Here’s the import permit we were issued:
Here are two really good import agents:
Penang:
Best Way Global Services
CL Lee
bestwaygs@gmail.com
+60-12-482-6810
(This is who we used – CL was great! He’s affordable, responsive, diligent and he took care of booking our quarantine stay, too.)
Kuala Lumpur:
CTI Logistics
http://www.ctikul.com/
Phone: +60-12-315-0298
Email: sunsun@ctikul.com
(I’ve heard good things about CTI from friends in KL who have used them to import their pets, but I can’t vouch for the service myself since I’ve never used them.)
5. Get a “veterinary certification” within 7 days of your pet’s flight, and a 15-digit microchip for each pet.
Malaysia requires that your veterinarian create an official health certificate with the name, age, description and microchip number of your pet. This must be issued within 7 days of your pet’s flight. Also, be sure that your pet’s chip is a 15-digit international microchip or your pet will be denied entry to the country.
The veterinary certificate must include the following (as per the Malaysian Ministry of Foreign Affairs):
A. The animal has been examined and found to be healthy and free from any clinical sign of rabies and infectious or contagious diseases of dog/cat, at the time of examination and certification, prior to export.
B. The animal has been vaccinated against rabies using an approved anti-rabies vaccine, prior to export.
C. The vaccination history status, treatment given and health status of the animal.
The certification must also have records or your pet’s routine vaccinations. For cats, that’s the typical FVRCP series and leukemia; for dogs, it includes distemper, parvovirus, leptospirosis, hepatitis and parainfulenza.
To be safe, it’s helpful to take the extra step of having your veterinarian include a letter stating that your pet is healthy enough for air travel and that there are no signs of infection or contagious diseases present.
Note: the rabies vaccine must be administered between 30 days to 12 months prior to your pet’s flight to Malaysia. Also note that unlike some countries, Malaysia does not require a rabies titer test for pets entering the country, which is good since that’s a pain in the neck.
Make at least 5 copies of the certificate and vaccination records, one for each of the following: the airline; your pet’s travel crate; transit permit (if flights connect through another country); Malaysian quarantine; and one for you.
6. Check with your home country’s Department of Veterinary Services or Department of Agriculture for export requirements.
In order for your pet to fly internationally, your home country may require you to have an animal export permit, or perhaps even a pet passport. To obtain these, you may need to supply a recent health certificate, vaccination reports and other pertinent information. You’ll probably need to fill out some paperwork, too.
For example, if your home country is the US, the pets must be examined within 7 days of the flight and your vet must fill out, sign and stamp a specific USDA form. Then you have to take that form down to a USDA APHIS Veterinary Services office (or Fedex it there) and pay a small fee, get your application approved and obtain a certification number. Here are links to the government sites of the US, UK and Australia about pet export requirements:
United States
https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/pet-travel
Here is the form that the USDA requires your veterinarian (who must be USDA accredited) to fill out for your expert permit.
UK
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/exporting-live-animals-or-animal-products-to-non-eu-countries
Australia
http://www.agriculture.gov.au/export/controlled-goods/live-animals/companion
7. Book the quarantine stay, and visit your pets while they’re in quarantine.
Pets flying from some countries are not subject to quarantine. At the time of writing this, those countries are: Brunei, Japan, Ireland, Singapore, and the UK. But note that your pets must still meet all the other requirements.
For pets coming from anywhere else, they must be quarantined for 7 – 10 days to make sure they’re “free of infection” (presumably just from rabies, but the quarantine office couldn’t confirm that for me. Just hope your pet doesn’t sneeze or cough during quarantine). There are three pet quarantine locations in Malaysia: Penang, Kuala Lumpur, and Padang Besar. Your pet will need to be quarantined at whichever airport he/she flies into.
You can reserve your pet’s quarantine stay yourself here. Or you can ask your import agent to do this for you. The per-day rate is minimal (see below for full costs). You pay at the end of the quarantine period.
This is a Penang cat quarantine room, which is about the size of a bathroom and is open-air.
You will need to supply your pets with bedding, food, water/food dishes, toys, litter boxes, kitty litter, leashes, etc. The floor of our cats’ room was pretty dirty, so you may want to line the floor with newspaper, too. For cats, I highly recommend bringing them little cat tents (or even just boxes turned on their sides) so they’ll have somewhere to hide and feel safe. It also helps to line their bedding with some of your worn t-shirts so that your pets can be comforted by your scent.
They let all three of our cats stay in the same room together, which helped them feel more comfortable. When you go to visit them, bring some pillows to make *yourself* more comfortable – your backside may go numb sitting on that hard tile for long periods of time!
You will need to do all the feeding/cleaning of your pets, so plan to visit them daily. Daily visits also help to ease their stress. It provides them with so much comfort to see people they love, and it helps them understand that they haven’t been abandoned.
If you can’t visit them certain days, your import agent may be able to arrange a feeding/cleaning service for you.
Here are the addresses and phone numbers for Malaysia’s three animal quarantine centers:
Kuala Lumpur – KLIA Animal Quarantine Station
Jalan Pekeliling 4
64050 Sepang, Selangor
Phone numbers:
+60-3-87872377
+60-3-87872379
+60-3-87871090
Penang – Bayan Lepas Animal Quarantine Station
9583 Jalan Ban
11960 Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang
Phone number: +60-4-6451292
Padang Besar Animal Quarantine Station
02100 Padang Besar, Perlis
Phone number: +60-4-9490230
8. Arrival procedures.
When you and your pets fly into Malaysia, you will likely not see your pets at the airport if they were transported in the cargo hold. The import agent is responsible for meeting your pets at the cargo area, waiting for the DVS representative to come, and then accompanying your pet to the quarantine facility. You will not be allowed to pick up your pet or accompany them to the facility. But if you land during office hours of the quarantine facility, you’ll be able to go and see your pets as soon as they’re checked in, which I highly recommend so you can help them settle in.
Costs
While individual costs will vary, here’s what we paid for our 3 cats to be flown from California to Penang, to be imported into Malaysia and quarantined in Penang:
USDA Certification: $38 USD
Flight: $863 USD for three cats on Cathay Pacific
Transit fee for Hong Kong airport: $110
Import Agent costs:
- MAQIS Import Permit application for 3 cats – RM220
- Custom clearance – RM250
- Delivery to quarantine station – RM 60
- Seven days quarantine charge – RM128 per cat
- EDI Documentation / Custom document / FCZ – RM85
Total cost for all 3 cats: RM5043 (about $1260 USD)
…and it was worth every penny to have our three furry family members here with us. They think so too.
Full service pet relocation services
If you decide to go the full-service route, here are some turnkey pet relocation services. Please note that I don’t have any experience with these companies since we only used an import agent, so you’ll need to research the reputability and the costs of these companies yourself:
JetPets (this one is particularly popular for Australian pet importing/exporting)
Also, International Pet and Animal Transport Association has a database full of pet shippers who are members of their association, which you can access here.
Phew! That was a lot of info!
Please let me know if this article is helpful to you, and feel free to ask me any questions you like. Before we moved, I was super stressed out by the thought of hauling our cats to Malaysia and was worried that we’d have to jump through a ton of hoops to make it happen. Our little guys mean the world to us and this process scared the pants off of me. But thanks to thorough preparation, it all turned out fine for us, and I’m sure it will for you, too.
It didn’t take Long Socks long to put the memory of flights and quarantine behind him and get on to his primary mission in life: claiming all soft, horizontal surfaces as his own, and covering all household objects with fur. (Mission accomplished).
Oh MY Expat Life 
Gosh… you are a super star to bring all that info together. I only wish we had moved a few months later than we have done, so i could profit from all your hard work.
Bringing our two dogs from the UK, we had it a little easier (re no quarantine restrictions;) but I do agree with the sentiment that it is not a difficult process to organise yourself, just long winded, so starting early is a very very good idea.
I would also add, that KAR pet location were wonderful at sorting out the necessary Malaysian import licences :
http://www.kar.com.my
Sri Kuhan Karpayah
Pet Travel Consultant
+6012 218 7020
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Thanks Drusilla! Sorry I didn’t publish this post while you were planning your move here, but I hope it’ll help others in the future! Did KAR just handle import licenses for you, or did they do more full-service/turnkey pet relocation services for you? I’d love to add them to the post, but I want to figure out the section in which to add them: either as an import agent, or a pet relocation service.
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Fabulous information I’m thinking to make the move out of Malaysia with my three Malaysian dogs and I must admit I was finding the thought of moving them daunting , so this is extremely useful thank you
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Thanks Elaine! Would you like me to do a post about exporting pets from Malaysia? The process is similar to importing pets here, but I found a few differences when I was exporting a dog I rescued here (and sent him to a rescue group in California since I couldn’t find him a home here).
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As the parent to 2 cats who will at some point relocate to the states, any info on how to export pets (cats) would be greatly appreciated! Thanks for putting all this together!
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OK- I’ll put together that article early next week. Be sure to subscribe so you’ll get the post in your inbox. 🙂
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Thanks for the info. Very, very informative.
We have MM2H but still haven’t made the move from Japan yet!!
Unfortunately, we lost our golden this year and only have the one house cat now… 😦 but we were VERY worried about the heat for our dog… I’m guessing our cat will love it there… Hot, hot, hot!
Thanks again and give Long Socks a scratch from us.
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Thank you so much for this post! I’m currently organizing a move from New York back to Malaysia with my rescue cat and the step-by-step information with expected costs breakdown is so helpful. I hope you don’t mind if I share this post with others in the same crate.
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So happy that the post is helpful to you, Shazana! Please feel free to share with anyone else who needs the info. And please feel free to ask any questions you may have. Good luck with your move! (And good for you for adopting a rescued cat – all of ours our rescues too.) 🙂
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Hi Shazana, would you mind sharing what airlines did you/will you be taking to transport your cat? I’m in DC and planning to move back to KL soon as well
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Just to add to the list. I’ve found a full service agent to help me relocate my cats from Penang to California. They’re Malaysian-based and only do pet transfers to/from Malaysia, but they’ve just transferred the cat of a friend from here to NYC and she raved about how wonderful they were. http://arosys-pet-transport.com/
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Dear Cimeron, Thanksssssss so very much for your very helpful article, I have did a lot of research about relocate my dog since 7 years ago, very hard to find sources, until 5 years ago, so happy to see a blog “Import pets to Malaysia”, sound very easy, but soon after that, message I found / learned, every year some new process coming up………..
I plan to bring my dog to Penang Malaysia on June 20 2017, I have a question about obtaining the “health certificate” (I believe same as what you said “veterinary certification”) from my dog’s vet.
According to my vet’s schedule, he schedule the appointment for us to pick up health certificate is June 8 (he said within 7 to 14 days before our departure date), then we have enough time to get endorsement for the Health certificate from the USDA within 7 days before departure date!
I read your article noted #5 and #6, “veterinary certification” and “USDA” endorsement must obtained within 7 days of the flight!? if this is true, then I must reschedule the appointment any day between June 15th to June 20? please kindly advise
Thankssss and have a nice day
Sincerely,
Yew-Keng Lim
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Very happy that you find this article helpful! When we were importing our cats, the requirement was for the vet visit and health certificate to occur within 7 days of travel. But as you say, things change all thelse time. So definitely check with the USDA and also with your Malaysian pet importer. Good luck with your move! 🙂
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Thanks Cimeron, I did verify with my pet importer, is between 7 to 14 days before departure date! and USDA endorsement within 7 days before departure date.
Now is time for me to prepare dog crate! based on your experience, can you please outlined the way to prepare carte (did you leave some treat inside the crate for your dog you rescued and how did you prepare water for your rescued dog ? any toy? ext….ext….). and what is the procedure on the departure day at the airport when you shipped your cats? Did the airline issue any airway bill? how did your importer receive the AWB?!
Thanksss
Best regards!
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There are several important things to do to prepare your pets’ crates: 1. Line the bottom with several “piddle pads” (super absorbent puppy training pads). 2. Affix a pet watering bottle to the outside of the cage with the nozzle pointed in (and get your pets used to drinking from these watering bottles prior to the flight). 3. Buy heavy-duty zip-ties to secure the heck out of the carrier, tying up the gate to the crate, and the top of the crate to the bottom. This makes sure that even if a bolt comes loose, your pet won’t get out. 4. Exercise the heck out of your pet before the flight – play a ton, walk many miles, and get them to eliminate as much waste as possible so that they won’t soil their crates too badly. 5. Put a full day’s worth of food in there with your pet. 6. If your pet likes toys, put a couple in there as well. 7. For cats, I sprayed the cages down with a calming pherimone product to help soothe their nerves.
Departure day procedures vary per airline, so be sure to call your airline’s cargo department to talk with them about their particular procedures for shipping pets. For ours, we had to take our cats to their cargo department about 3 hours before the flight and they prepared all the airway bills, inspected the crates to make sure they met the airline specs, and took payment for shipping our animals. In Malaysia, our importer met our cats at the airport and took them to quarantine facility. It was after-hours, but they let me meet them there so I could set up our cats in their quarantine room. I brought them their favorite bedding, hidey tents, food, treats and toys to help make the quarantine room more familiar and comfortable for them. I also brought them pet wipes to clean them down, which was a really good thing to do since they’d gotten a bit filthy en route with all the food, water and waste sloshing around in the crate with them.
I hope this helps!
Cimeron
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Thanks Cimeron for all your valuable advises, I learned a lot from you!
I had change all the crate bolts, nuts from plastic to metal, I had trained her to drink water from her
20 oz reversible drinking water bottle, I put 2 layers of absorbent pad plus a thin goose down bedding, her favorite toy, ………..hopefully all these will make her fell less stress!
Already make an appointment with USDA to have our Malaysia Health Certificate endorse on June 15th……Now I am waiting for the import permit from our pet relocation agent, then everything will be set
Thankssss again and have a wonderful day
Sincerely,
Yew-Keng Lim
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Please help!!
We were all set to relocate our dog from the UK to Malaysia, when I saw that Malaysian airlines (who we have our flight booked with currently) will only transfer dogs to Malaysia via Air Cargo, and not as checked baggage. Is this the case with all airlines, or only M.A? Do you know if dogs are accepted in via checked baggage on other airlines? From what I am reading, they are only accepted as air cargo (but I cannot work out whether this means a designated air cargo plane, or if checked baggage counts as air cargo!?). I thought I had it all sorted but it seems not!
I hope you read this, even though its an older thread.
Many thanks!!
Hannah
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Hi Hanna,
Most airlines will only fly animals in cargo. You don’t want them to be considered “checked baggage” – pets need to be in their own special cargo area of the plane that’s temperature controlled, monitored for their safety, and secured so their cages don’t bounce around or get crushed by other baggage. You’ll need to book a place for your dog by calling the airline’s Air Cargo division, and they will give you their list of requirements for the carrier and paperwork. and I hope that helps!
Cimeron
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Hi Cimeron,
Thank you so much for your article. You are a hero to so many parents like us. We are planning to move back to Malaysia from Chicago later this year and we are planning to bring our cat with us. Do you know if cats are allowed to travel in the passenger cabin as opposed to in the air cargo? Meaning that having the cat in the carrier bag, which is placed under the passenger seat in front of my seat. Is this allowed by the Malaysian immigration office if the airline allows it?
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Hi Ali! Last I checked, all animals coming from the US to Malaysia must travel in the pet cargo hold. But just in case something has changed, talk with your airline’s cargo department. If your cat does have to fly in cargo, don’t worry, everything will be ok. Our 3 cats made it just fine, and two are seniors. I hope your move and your cat’s flight goes well!
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Thank you so much for providing these information.
I also going to bring my cat home in Malaysia from Japan.
Luckily I live in Penang much much easier for relocating.
Only I have a few questions, my cat from Japan doesn`t need quarantine but I`m moving home alone so is there pet hotel I can ask the import agent to check in them? Or can I have them stay in quarantine places as they might arrived before me?
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Hi there,
There are lots of boarding facilities that can house and take care of your cat until you arrive. You will need to arrange that with your import agent. I don’t know of all of the boarding facilities in Penang, but here’s one that many of my friends use and really like – it’s called Bark and Purr in Tanjung Bungah: https://www.facebook.com/BarknPurrAsia/
I wouldn’t recommend having your cat stay at the quarantine facility because it’s a pretty ugly place that can be stressful for pets, and they don’t take care of pets there, so you’d have to hire someone to go there and take care of your cat.
I hope that helps!
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Hi Cimeron, Thanks for your excellent article. My wife and I are looking to bring our two cats from Hong Kong to Penang. I was just reading your last post…. so we don’t need to leave the cats in Penang Govt quarantine? That is good news. Do you know what the alternatives are? Presume you can’t quarantine them in our apartment?. We are coming to Penang tomorrow for a week, so if you are around would be nice to have a chat. I don’t have a mobile number as yet but will get one and advise you.Thanks again. Marc
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Hi Marc! Pets being imported from most countries are required to be quarantined for a week (or sometimes more). You’ll need to check to see if Hong Kong is one of the places of origin requiring quarantining. If it is, there’s no alternative for quarantine. I tried getting them to allow me to quarantine our cats in our condo but they wouldn’t agree to it. But our 3 cats did fine, especially since I visited them in quasrantine every day (which I strongly recommend – it significantly reduces their stress). Unfortunately I’m traveling right now so I can’t meet up with you in Penang – sorry! I recommend that you contact the Penang import agent I listed in the article and meet up with him – he’s a huge help! Best of luck with your move. 🙂
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Many thanks Cimeron..it’s very much appreciated…safe travels. M
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Hello there,
That’s a huge PHEW thank you for bringing all of those information to us. I want to bring an update to the information you provide here. I’m going to go with Peggy because her answers were really quick ! But, her company charges around RM 400 for the feeding and grooming. I said that I could do it myself, but it seems like the rule changed and a pet owner is no longer allowed to feed his pet. The up-mentionned fee is now compulsory.
All the best to all pet owners and lovers who take their beloved furry companion to Malaysia !
Amélie.
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Thanks for the info, Amélie! I wonder if that rule just applies for Peggy and her company, or for the quarantine facility itself?
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Hi,
Thanks very much for the information. I am planning to fly my cat from the UK to Malaysia. I wonder if your cats were transported via cargo or as checked in baggage?
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Mine were transported in cargo with Cathay Pacific. As far as I understand it, unless an animal can travel in the cabin with you, all pets must fly “cargo” since there is a special pressurized, temperature controlled pet cargo area that ensures a safe flight for them. (The baggage area wouldn’t be safe for pet crates due to crush risks, lack of temp control and pressure.)
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Hi
As a cat owner, this is great information. One of my biggest worries on moving to Penang has been how to move my cats. Like most people with pets, they are our children. I am curious how you handled giving them a “bathroom” break? I moved my cats from New York to California and with all the time in the carry on bag, they soiled it. Maybe a crate is better because you can add a small litter box?
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That was our biggest worry too, Jana! Our cats are all older, and they did just fine…even though one of our flights got cancelled and the total journey was more than 40 hours for them. As for bathroom breaks, I asked the airline if I could put a small litter box in their carriers, but they said no – the litter would get everywhere. Instead, they suggested putting in a few layers of “puppy piddle pads” in their carriers. That worked really well.
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this might be shared somewhere above, but the vet cert form you need to bring to the usda office is located here: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/pet-travel/health-certificates/non-eu/malaysia-dog.pdf
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Cimeron, First, bravo for taking your kitties with you! I work in cat rescue and I can’t tell you how many pets are left behind when owners move out of the country. At some point, I will be moving to Penang (from California) and will be taking my kitties with me. Your article was excellent! I have two questions, did you find a direct flight or did you need to change planes? If changing planes, how many times and how worried were you about the cats being re-boarded onto the correct flight? That is my biggest fear. Lastly, did each of your cats have a separate crate or were they together in a large crate? Thanks much!
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Hi Lynn! Nice to meet you. I too have been an animal rescuer for many years. Our furry family members will come will us wherever we go, because of course, they’re family! To answer your question, from California, there are no direct flights to Penang at the moment – hopefully that will change in the future, but my guess is that it’ll be many years off. We flew on Cathay Pacific from SFO to Hong Kong to Penang, and yes, there was one plane change. Every other day, they have a short connection time through Hong Kong (and the other days, the layover is about 7 hours). I chose the short layover flight, but unfortunately, our first flight was delayed and we landed an hour late. The flight crew was super helpful – they said I could make the connection to the Penang flight, but our cats couldn’t. So I asked them to get our cats, me and my luggage on the following flight, which they did. That was a stressful layover, as I was really worried about our cats and whether or not they’d make it on the next flight. Luckily Cathay handled everything really well, and all of us made it on the next flight. Phew! Door to door, my cats were in their carriers for about 40 hours, and they all did fine. I, on the other hand, was a wreck. 🙂
All three cats were in separate carriers, and I’m glad we did it that way. Our vet recommended it, as did the Cathay cargo people, because if there was turbulence and the cats were together, they could have hurt each other. Plus, you never know what an animal will do under stress – it might lash out at whatever is nearby, including a furry friend. It’s safest to have them separate.
When you get here, send me a message and we’ll meet up! Sounds like we’ve got a lot in common. And in the meantime, if you have any questions, feel free to ping me here or on Instagram (which is also “OhMYExpatLife”). Best of luck with your move! 🙂
Cimeron
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Thank you Cimeron. I appreciate the response. And the invite! Not sure when I will be making the actual move. I will visit first and we can connect then. That visit will be sometime in 2018. Hope to meet you then.
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i would like to enquire more about bringing your pet from California to Malaysia. I going to bring my both dog from California to malaysia early on Dec 2017. Today i only bring them for rabies vaccination but i would like to know more about the step . thank you
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Hi Soo Wan. I’m sorry, I’m not sure I understand your question. If you’re asking for the steps for bringing your pets from the US to Malaysia, you’ll find all those steps within this story. 🙂 Best of luck with your move!
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Hi Cimeron, remember you gave me some valuable advices of the procedures to bring my dog back to Penang! My dog Foxy was back to Penang smooth and safe since June, she is very happy and sound. She already adjusted in our new home. She plays ball two times a day in our small garden, sometime she even plays ball with our neighbou’s kids, those kids are so amazed that Foxy can play ball like a football player and said that : no wonder dog from America is so different! :))
Once a while we my sisters will bring her out to the seaside for a walk and to a pet friendly restaurant.
Now I am back to San Francisco and prepares for the next year final move.
Once again, thanks so very much for all your kind help!
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I’m so happy to hear that, Yew-Keng Lim! That’s wonderful news that your dog Foxy did so well with the flights and quarantine and that she’s now happy in Penang. Thank you for letting me know that the story helped you and Foxy – that made my day! 🙂 Good luck with your big move here! I’m very jealous you’re in San Francisco right now – I miss sourdough bread soooo much!
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Hi Cimeron, Sourdough bread,! Ummm Yamyam, my favorite too, do you know Boudin Bakery just at the other side of the street of where I work! 😂
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I used to go there all the time when I worked in SF! But my all-time favorite sourdough bread is made by Tartine Bakery in the Mission. If you haven’t been there yet, definitely go – their bread is absolutely unbelievable. Oh man, I’m drooling just thinking about it…
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Good afternoon Cimeron, do you know, Boudin Backery sourdough bread is already satisfied my palate 😒! You are truly a gourmet, I heard about Tartine Bakery before! Very famous, But never tried! I think i must at least try once Tartine Backery sourdough (not other) before I leave SF! Hahaha
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I’m so glad I found your blog. I’m in PJ by the way. Still I’m not sure if ill move my two dogs. This country is not dog friendly!
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Hi Cimeron
Thanks for such a hugely informative blog! I am currently trying to bring two dogs I adopted in Phuket to Australia but they have to spend some quarantine time in Malaysia before entering Australia. I’ve had a quote from Jetpets to do the whole process from Thailand to Australia which is stupendously expensive (over $20k US) but reading your blog has helped explain some of the costs…
They are required to undergo preliminary quarantine on entering Malaysia (and one is a cross G Shepherd/Corgi so there’s extra regulations involved for her) and I presume the pet agent will do the caring for the dogs while in quarantine (the feeding, cleaning etc you mentioned) but my main concern is where they will be kennelled for the couple of months afterwards. Jetpets won’t tell me where they would be kept, and I’ve Googled dog kennels in KL and there are very few, and they look horrendous…. would you be able to provide me with any ‘insider info’ on the kenneling options that might be available for them in KL? (they apparently can be privately boarded once out of quarantine, so maybe that would be a better option, although Jetpets doesn’t seem open to any ‘discussion’ on alternative kenneling options…)
So I would much appreciate any advice you (or anyone else in Malaysia) could help me with on this. Cheers, Michelle
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Hi Michelle! So sorry for my delayed response. For some reason, my blog stopped sending me notifications of messages to my email inbox, so I was wondering why things have been so quiet for a while. 20k is an absolutely insane quote for doing the transport and import of your dogs – it’s disappointing to hear that pet relo companies are trying to mark up the prices so stupidly high. To answer your other question, unfortunately since I live in Penang, I don’t have any experience with the kennels in KL. But try contacting CL Lee – the import/export agent I list in the story. He’s the guy we’ve hired for importing and exporting our pets and he’s super honest, very knowledgeable, quite affordable and super professional. I bet he’ll be able to give you some advice. Just let him know I sent you and he’ll give you extra special treatment. (I don’t get kickbacks or anything – he’s just a really nice guy and he knows that I’m a decently nice person too. So when he knows that a friend of mine is coming to him, he’s always happy to work with them). Best of luck!
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Hi Michelle,
We are planning to do the same thing, but the move will be from Bali to Australia with Malaysia as a layover. I’ve asked several pet relo companies and have received the same ridiculously expensive quote, (at least AU$16,000 for just one dog). After coming across Cimeron’s informative post, now we are thinking of doing it ourselves, but still not sure of the next step to Australia after completing quarantine and 60-days stay over period. I think we are lucky to be able to stay in Malaysia with our dog for 2 months, therefore we don’t have to look for a kennel. I’m just wondering about the next process of relocating her to Australia. Have you figured out a way? I would very much appreciate if you could share me any advice or what will you be doing with your 2 dogs..
Cheers,
Priscilla
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Hi Priscilla,
Your best bet would be to talk with a pet import/export agent in Malaysia, as they can help you figure out the process and cost for exporting your dogs from Malaysia to Australia. Plus, you’ll need their help with the paperwork. Import/export agents are extremely affordable, and cost orders of magnitude less than pet relocation companies. I list some agents in the story. 🙂
Just note though that Australia has extremely stringent requirements for importing dogs from most countries. So be sure to check their import guide – here’s a link for you: http://www.agriculture.gov.au/cats-dogs/step-by-step-guides
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We used to have kitten.com.my that held a wealth of information about moving (and other cat-related stuff).. unfortunately the forum closed down! and a few blogs that have written about the process also were deleted. thanks a lot for this post ❤
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Happy to help! When we moved here, there was pretty much no information online about importing pets, which drove me nuts and made it really challenging for us to bring our cats over. I didn’t want anyone else to pull their hair out like we did, so I’m happy this is helping people!
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Hi Cimeron,
We have exchanged info previously. I have a question on the cat quarantine. We are bringing 2 cats in July. both are persian breed (very heavy fur) cats. Are the quarantine areas air conditioned? I am extremely concerned about them over heating. Also, did you feel that the quarantine attendants were caring for the cats? I know you have several and am sure you were concerned that were under good care (clean water, clean litter, fresh food, etc) Any additional insight on this area would be appreciated
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Hi Jana,
In the Penang quarantine facility, it’s open-air with metal grates – not air conditioned. It’s well shaded though, and air flows through freely, so our cats didn’t overheat. But for Persians, you may want to get them lion-cuts to keep them cool. And no, the quarantine staff did not care for our cats at all. I don’t think that’s their job, actually. It’s up to pet owners (or an agent appointed by the owners) to take care of their pets every day. To keep our cats comfortable and make sure they didn’t feel abandoned, I spent multiple hours each day at the facility with them. It was also my responsibility to feed them, clean their litter boxes, change their water, etc. So unless things have changed dramatically in the past couple of years at the quarantine facility (which I seriously doubt), you’ll need to care for your kitties yourself or pay an agent to do so on your behalf. I hope that helps!
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I am planning to relocate my two cats this summer or fall to Malaysia from US. Im so confused tho. Aside form all the other stress of this , how does one get the health certicate within 7 days and purchase airfare?? What I mean is , if I purchase my ticket now ( which would be less expensive) but the health certificate doesnt quite get approved withinn the 7 days, ….. any info on this. Or advice, etc?? Thank you so much!!! Tara
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Hi Tara, I purchased the airfare for our pets well in advance. You need to book in advance to make sure they get a place in cargo. When I purchased their airfare, the airline we used was fine with me providing a copy of their last health checks (a few months before), which verified that our cats were real and healthy. Then within 7 days of the flight, we took them all in for the health certification that’s required for export, import and for the flight itself. I hope that helps! Good luck on your move. 🙂
Cimeron
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Hi Cimeron,
I was looking for old posts here as I am trying to recall was it you who had mentioned that pets had to be brought into Malaysia as cargo or as “excess baggage” but cannot be in cabin?? I cannot recall. I have been told by numerous pet relocators as well as Korean Air that it is fine but I did receive a email back from furbabypetrelocator that you are correct (if that was you,) that pets cannot arrive in Malaysia in the cabin.
I have tried calling the Dept of Vet Services in Malaysia to ask them but NO answer ever!!!
Im very concerned about having my 16 yr old in cargo…. do you have any idea how this is for small pets that are elderly??
Thx AGAIN :))
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Hi Tara! Rule and regulations change all the time here, so this is a confusing one. From many locations, pets can travel in the plane cabin to Malaysia. But it’s rare to find an airline that will allow pets coming from North America to travel in the cabin with you to Malaysia. I have yet to hear from anyone from Canada or the US who was allowed to bring their pets in the cabin with them to Malaysia – all that I know of have had to travel in the special Pet Cargo area on the plane. Often times it’s the airlines enforcing this rule, but the Malaysian government has also been known to require that pets fly in cargo so they can be transferred directly to quarantine from the flight with an agent. All three of our cats are seniors and they did fine traveling in cargo on the flights, but you should definitely talk with your vet to make sure that your furry family member will be fit enough to handle the stress of the journey. Also, if your pet has a health condition that requires medication, your pet relocation agent may be able to convince the quarantine officials to allow you to do home-quarantine when you arrive. I hope that helps!
Cimeron
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Thank you for this post! I did a lot survey on the price range and I emailed the agent (CL Lee), he offer quite affordable price! I hope this is not an act of scam! Hehehe
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Hi Lilianne! Don’t worry – CL is awesome. He’s who we used to import our cats, as well as to export a dog I rescued. And I don’t get any kickbacks from him for promoting his services – I just think he’s fantastic. Since it was so difficult for me to figure out the whole importing thing on my own, I wanted to share everything I learned with other pet owners so life would be a bit easier for others (like you) in the future. Glad that the story has helped you! Good luck with your move and importing your pets to Malaysia. 🙂
Cimeron
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Thank you so much. I am having major anxiety. It doesnt seem like it would be safe for them to travel in cargo ….Im taking one in the cabin and one who is almost 9lbs will have to go in cargo
espec if we take Korean Air. But she is so frightened of even her own shadow
Also, I didnt realize I need to purchase tickets way ahead of time. And Im getting way too much varying info re the Vet health cert. The vet I went to says I need the STATE vet to sign off, but the STATE vet says no….sigh….anyway, all and any advice much appreciated.
BTW, is CL an agent or a pet relocator. TY!!!
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Hi there! Still working on our move for summer 2018. My cats now have the rabies and chips. Spoke with the vet on what to do with high heat for long hair cats. She seems to think that the insulation works both ways (keeping them warm and keeping them cool) and did not recommend a cut. However, they were good with the idea of a battery operated fan and cooling pads for quarantine. I found the pads online so going to give them a try. Also found a great tent (thanks for the idea) and they are getting used to it now. I did have a couple more questions for you:
1. What is the best day to fly in to minimize quarantine? Flights from SF seem to land at 12:30 in the afternoon and according to the importer, that day does not really count. I checked on arrival on Monday at 12:30 and told we could not get them till 12:30 the following Monday. I assume that is the best case? Any thoughts on that?
2. Do you have a good Vet to recommend? I want to be prepared if my older ones catches cold. I plan to load him up with Lysene before we go in order to boost immunity, but want to be prepared to call a vet if needed.
3. Lastly, you mentioned your cats needed some clean up after the flight. I can imagine my long hair cats smelling terrible. I will use some dry bath options at quarantine, but do you have any recommendation for a groomer once they are free?’
Thanks much. Obviously this topic is a big one for us cat lovers 🙂
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Hi Jana, that’s great to hear that you’ve got almost everything sorted out for your cats! So to answer your questions:
1. Sounds like you’ve found the best case. One other option is this: if your cats are on any medication, you can have your pet importer appeal to the quarantine staff on your behalf to do home quarantine. That would be the best case scenario. I just talked with a woman who did that with her two cats, so I know they’re granting home quarantine now for pets with medical conditions (which they wouldn’t do when we flew our cats over).
2. I love love love Dr. Lynn at Ark Veterinary Clinic in Permai Village, Tanjung Bungah. She’s super smart, very thorough and an all-around fantastic vet who care a lot about her patients.
3. Our cats have never needed grooming (since they groom each other pretty well), so I don’t have a personal recommendation for you. However, I searched our expat group forums and found this recommendation for you from one of the members: “Sugar Rae for sure! My Bella has been going there for 7 years and loves Aunty Kim and all the lovely ladies there. She also stays there a couple of weeks when I visit UK every year. Telephone 048991246”
I hope that helps!
Cimeron
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Hi Cimeron! My dog is in that situation, needs medication 4 times/day. Can you please put me in contact with that lady you mencioned who applied for a home quarantine for her cats? I really need this expertise to know how to apply for home quarantine. My dog has hypercorticism and has 16 years old.
Thank you!
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Hi Sulene,
You’ll need to talk with the manager of the quarantine facility to get a waiver for home quarantine, or better yet, have your import agent do it for you – I’m sure that having them visit the facility in person will help a lot. (I don’t have the lady’s contact info, so unfortunately I cannot connect you two.) I hope this helps!
Cimeron
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Hi Jana- When and where r u are you moving from…..IM planning mid August. Thx for the info re insulation. I have a long-hair ( part persian) that gets matted if I do not get her a lion cut BUT she always has to be sedated for it and I dont want to do that to her before I leave. I did order some cooling pads on Groupon last year.
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Hi Cimeron, thanks for the detailed information. Could you please tell me how you obtain the transit permit from Hong Kong, and how long did it take for you to obtain ? thank you
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Hello, cimeron, thanks for all the information. I’m planning to fly my dog back to Malaysia using Cathay pacific too. Could you please tell me how I can obtain the import permit from Hong Kong? they told me I need to have all the health certificate in order to apply for the transit permit which does not make sense to me because I think that one would be the document which I need to have within 7 days of departure. Could you also please tell me what documents I need to show if I want to apply for the transit permit in Hong Kong. Thank you
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Hi ShaoZheng, very happy to hear that the story is helping you with your planning! So are you just flying through Hong Kong, or are you moving to Hong Kong. If you’re just flying through, you only need a transit permit. Import permits are just for when you are moving to a country. For a transit permit, your export agent will need to get that for you. Your export agent will let you know exactly which documents/certifications that he/she will need in order to get the transit permit (which is usually just your flight booking info for your pet, and all the same certification documents required for your pet airline travel booking.)
After your agent has secured the transit permit on your flight to your destination, you don’t need to show any pet transit documents – the airline’s cargo crew handles that.
I hope that helps. 🙂
Cimeron
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Hello ShaoZheng,
Last year I was using Cathy Pacific to relocated my dog Foxy from SF to Penang, I called Cathy Pacific Cargo to book for my dog 30 days before my fligft, I gave them my departure date and my reservation number. Cathy Pacific cargo sent me a cc authorization charge form, Cargo department applied HK permit for me. Hope my information help 😊
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Hello, i am planning to move from Roumania to Malaysia with my cat in 2-3 weeks. Could you please tell me how long it takes to get a waiver for home quarantine if the pet needs medication?
Or if the waiver is declined by authorities, it it possible to take the pet in plane cabin?
I found an airline what accepts pets in cabin, but i don’t understand what is the procedure for pets which have to stay in quarantine.
Thank you.
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Hi Nadea,
You need to contact a pet import agent in Malaysia to get details about home quarantine. I don’t have any experience with it. The story lists some agents you can contact, so they should be able to help you. Best of luck!
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Hi Cimeron, I know the cost would be different now as your post was a couple years ago already, but you said the total cost of your 3 cats was 1,260$, right?
I’m planning to bring my cat from Sri Lanka to Malaysia next month too and contact the KL agency that you recommended. My cat is a domestic cat, only 1 year old, vaccinated and micro chipped. The agency gave the the quotation of almost 700$ for my cat, is that a bit expensive?
So I want to ask you that you did all the procedures yourself or you let the agency did most of it you and would it be cheaper if I applied all the papers for my cat myself (or can I even do it myself).
Hope to hear from you soon.
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Hi Thanh, I have only used Best Way/CL Lee in Penang, so I can’t provide first-hand info about the services or prices of any other pet importers. But I can tell you how I imported our cats to Malaysia. I handled all the ticketing with the airline myself, and got the airline’s checklist of everything they required for our cats to be transported (vaccination records, approved cat carriers, vet certificates, etc). I asked CL Lee to handle all the import permit and quarantine details for our cats. He told me all the things I needed to send him so he could apply for and obtain the import permit and secure space in quarantine. The way I did it worked out to be quite affordable for us.
Last time I checked, the Department of Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services (MAQIS) required people to appoint a pet import agent to submit all the import paperwork on their behalf through the e-permit system, but things change in government departments frequently. You can check out this MAQIS guideline to learn more: http://www.maqis.gov.my/documents/20182/36527/YOUR+GUIDE+TO+IMPORT+PETS+INTO+MALAYSIA+%28UPDATE+290116%29.pdf/d0feabe0-e2d2-4866-ae58-32bf2b725eeb
You can also call MAQIS to chat with them about this, and also to obtain a list of approved pet import agents. Here’s their number: +60 3-8870-8000.
I hope that helps! Best of luck to you and your kitty. 🙂
Cimeron
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Thank you so much Cimeron for answering. But we’re having another issue now. The company we work for, they will sort out our visas and book and pay for our tickets to Malaysia. The thing is by the time we know our flight time, it would be only 1-2 weeks before departure day. That’s why I still can’t do any paperwork now as I don’t even know when we will leave the country.
So we think of another option, we can ask our friend to keep our cat for a while, then we will come to Malaysia first, do all the papers ourselves in KL, then once everything is done, my cat will flight herself to Malaysia.
As I understand, the paper from the export country is the easier part and the one from the import country is the difficulty part and cost the most, is it right?
So do you think this is a good idea for our situation, we can’t think of anything else right now as we’re so busy and stressed.
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I totally understand your stress! Moving is never an easy proposition, and adding the welfare of your cat on top of it all, it makes things more stressful for sure. How about this as an alternative: talk with your company and explain the situation, and either ask them to arrange for your cat’s transport with you, or ask them if you can just book all your flights yourself and them have them reimburse you. They will likely choose the second option, which is the best chance for you to have the most control over your flights and booking your cat’s ticket to come with you. Companies are usually really good about that once you explain the full situation. I really hope that helps you guys!
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Thanks Cimeron. Yes, the company would totally agreed if we wanted to book the tickets ourselves then get the refund later, but it’s about the visas too, they’re in the process of getting us 2 years visas and once they have it, we will only have about 1-2 weeks to pack up our stuffs here and flight to KL.
Can I ask you how long did it take you to get the import permit from Malaysian government? Because if that paper only take 1 week or less, I think I maybe can still bring my cat with me after I know about my departure time. My cat is done with microchip and vaccinations, and as I understand, now I have to get the import permit from Malaysia and the vaccines certificate from Sri Lanka within 7 days before my flight (which should be easy).
Do you think that could work? Are 2 weeks enough?
By the way, thanks you for helping me through all of this, I had no clues what to do.
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Hi Thanh,
You’ll need to talk with a pet import agent to see how long it will take for them to obtain the import permit. When CL got ours a few years ago, it took about a week, however, it may take more or less time to obtain one now – things change all the time here. Also remember to research Sri Lanka’s pet export regulations and meet all their requirements (I don’t know about Sri Lanka’s specific requirements, but I do know that many countries have veterinary departments that require people to obtain export customs documentation and clearance for pets to fly out of the country).
Happy to hear that the story is helping you through this. When we moved here, there was absolutely nothing online to walk us through the process or point us to any import agents, so it was a stressful experience to figure it all out on our own. That’s why I created this story and the checklist so that it would be a heck of a lot easier for others. Really glad to hear that it’s helping you! 🙂
-Cimeron
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Hi Thanh- Just wanted to give you some input re this as I am in the middle of it now. I have done hours and hours of research and phone calls with agents as well as “pet relocators” and as Cameron stated she did all the footwork and then had an agent handle the permit, meeting the pets at baggage and quarantine. I did not think I could do it as it appeared all so complicated but a pet relocator is so so expensive, ridiculous really.
It can be done just using an agent and it is really simple. Let me know if you have any other questions as I am in the process of moving from the US to Malaysia in 8 weeks :O !!!
$700.00 for your cat is very expensive BTW !!
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Hi Tara, thanks for your reply. Yes, when I got the quote from the agent and compare to what Cameron paid, I was surprised how expensive it would be. Especially we’re in Sri Lanka, that is only 2 hours flight to Malaysia.
So can I ask what papers have you done so far? I haven’t done anything but looking around and getting confused.
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Oh believe me Thanh, I was soooo confused. I drove Cameron crazy with emails as well as other pet relocaters. So I am taking my two babies in cabin with me. I had thght about putting one in cargo or as excess baggage ( there is a difference) – but it is cheaper and I feel better about it.
The paperwork I have done so far is just preparing the vaccinations, micro chip and once it gets closer I will get the health cert signed. it should NOT cost you much at all just moving from Sri Lanka!! It should only cost you about $300.00 USD at the most…..( excluding the airfare)
The other vaccine I am getting is the FVCRP. I have found that some sites say it is necessary and some do not. I asked an agent and she said that it is not mandatory but if they decide once you arrive then they will vaccinate the pet . So think about that. There is a site that has lots of pictures for the KL quarantine. Are you landing in KL??
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Wow, taking your cat to the cabin is cheaper than excess baggage, I didn’t know that.
My cat is only 1 year old, done all the vaccinations and microchip right after I adopted her.
So basically the difficulty part would be the import permit from the Malaysian government, right?
I suppose to be in KL in the end of July, but still waiting for my visa so haven’t booked any tickets yet.
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Hi Tara!
I’ve never seen anything indicating that FVRCP is a mandatory vaccination for cat import here. That’s probably because FVRCP protects the cats from the most common viruses, and none of those viruses are transmissible to humans – they’re most worried about rabies here. (With that said, I always give our cats the FVRCP vaccine, and almost all vets recommend it, because it keeps cats healthy. And regulations here change all the time, at the drop of a hat, so who knows – maybe they recommend it now?) Are you getting excited about your move? You’re coming soon, right? I hope everything goes smoothly for you and your cats!
Cimeron
(P.S. My name is Cimeron, not Cameron). 🙂
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Hi Cimeron!!, yes. I knew it was Cimeron, lol. but work with a client named Cameron and just did an auto spell 😉
Yes, you are correct, the FVCRP is not mandatory. I was thinking I still should tho, you think?? The problem is my 17 y/o had to be sedated just for her micro and rabies so I wil have to get her sedated again for the FVCRP or not get it!!
Im excited but really stressed, have not bought tickets or submitted my retirement papers, ha ha.
THANK YOU again for this site. I want to also provide info to others on your site as I move thru this process as you helped me as well 🙂
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Yes!, Not sure what airline you take from Sri Lanka, but you might want to ck if any allow pet in cabin. The difference here is $125.00 in cabin and $200.00 in cargo. It is so nerve racking I know. I have not bought my tickets yet either ….. waiting on a few details first.
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Hi Tara,
I read from the above that you managed to do the import of your cat by yourself, can you share the experience?
I am planning to bring my cat to KL from Indonesia.
Kinda stuck in import permit process.
Thanks
Wilda
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Hi Wilda, Tara kindly sent me a full description of her experience, which I posted at the end of the story so readers like you can learn from her recent experience of importing her cats. Just scroll down to the end of the story and you’ll find it under the heading “Experience of an OhMYExpatLife Reader.”
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Hi. Yes, pls read Cimeron’s posting on my experience. Let me know if you have any more questions. I imagine coming from Indonesia will be much simpler than US…..
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Absolute legend. Many thanks for deciphering the import process!
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Hello, I also need some help. I stopped vaccinating my dogs after they turned 2 years old. We switched into holistic approach. Now, they are 3 and 4 years old and we’re moving to KL. Is their vet certificate enough without updated vaccination records? They still have their old records though. Malaysia is not really a dog friendly coutry T_T
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Sorry, don’t know the answer to that. You’ll need to check the vaccination requirements for the country from which you’ll be exporting your dogs, the airline on which you’ll be transporting your dogs, and a Malaysian pet import agent. Best of luck!
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Hi. Actually I can answer that , at least from my experience. I did not vaccinate my two pets for many years until I moved to KL. I also was uncertain about this question you are asking. BUt….all you need is to vaccinate them now with the vaccines required and it will be documented. I recommend getting a “passport” for your pet. It really helped. You dont need one but it seemed to help.
I visited my pets daily at the quarantine station and this also is very important.
Cimeron was gracious enough to post my moving experience. So you can read it .
Tara
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Thanks Tara. That’s the answer I’m looking for. Their vet can surely provide those passport requirements. I am always travelling back and forth from Manila to KL and the time has come that I need to move. We have lots of petfriendly places here in Makati, they can walk everywhere, we can bring our dogs to the malls and when grocery shopping too but KL is not like that. And there are limited options for the dogs. I’m relocating first quarter next year due to work. I hope we can move closer to Desa Park City. Wish us good luck.
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yes, you are right. I dont see as many dogs here as cats. And I do think cats are much more common and accepted. Yes, the vet will give you certificate. Here is link if you want to get your furry love a passport 🙂
( Pet Travel Store http://www.pettravelstore.com)
GoodLuck!!
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Thanks for this info. We are bringing our 11 year old Ragdoll cat from Vietnam on our way back to Australia. We have been told that you cannot bring an animal with you if you are coming in on a tourist visa ( which we will be) – can you advise further on this
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You’ll need to talk with an import agent, as they are the experts at details like this. I list the names of a few in the story, and I’m sure they can answer your questions. 🙂
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Thanks Cimeron. Do you also know where I can find a list of vets who can take the necessary blood sample for the RNAT test ( for Australia) and whether there is a laboratory in Malaysia who can test this or which country would they send it to
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Cimeron! You rock again! This is such incredibly helpful information – and look at all the pet lovers above you helped by researching and posting it. Thanks so much. I am concerned to see no posts since August 2018. Are you OK? Best, Susan
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Thanks for your kind words, Susan! All is well, just very busy with work and travel. Since I get paid for my magazine writing work, that always comes first in the writing to-do list. I don’t make money off my blog, so it’s a side project and I write for it whenever I have free time. 🙂
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Hi Cimeron How are you, um i am from puerto rico and i want to import my pet to malaysia, since its 2019 i dont know if they change there rules
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HI Sharly! I haven’t heard of any changes, but if you find there are any, please let me know and I’ll update the post.
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Hi Cimeron. Your blog helped me tremendously with moving my two cats from Miami to Kuala Lumpur. Thank you!!! Now we are getting ready to leave Kuala Lumpur to return to Miami. I contacted USDA Florida and basically was told the requirement to take our kitties back is simple. Only need to get rabies and healthy certificate. Does the health certificate done by an accredited vet like how it was done in US or any vet will do? I saw another blogger provide a sample health certificate to us since vets here do not have a standard form to use. Is there a similar agency as USDA export in Malaysia that I need to contact? I contacted the same pet agency that helped us when we brought our kitties into Malaysia but they are not able to help me with the return service. Is it because nothing much is required and that I can handle the delivery of the kitties in carrier to airline counter on day of departure? I did handle all on my own at Miami airport when I left the US and the agent in Malaysia met me at the airport to show appropriate paperwork to custom and took my kitties to the quarantine center. Any help is appreciated. Thanks!
Guna
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Hi Guna, very happy to hear that my blog has helped you so much. 🙂 My export agent said that any licensed Malaysian veterinarian can issue the health certificate/letter, but it’s best to double check this with your own agent. Please note that you will need an export permit for your cats to fly out of Malaysia, and you’ll need a pet export agent to help you obtain it. Once you get a pet export agent, they will ask you for your letter/certificate from the vet and can make sure that it’s exactly what the Malaysian authorities will need to issue the export permit, and what the airline will need to book your cats on the flight. The agent will also likely need to take your cats in for the VRI inspection, usually done within the week of the flight. I hope this helps! Best of luck with your move back to Miami.
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I am in South Korea and am experiencing a nightmare trying to bring my dogs to Malaysia. I have contacted the correct government department, and found them to be anything but helpful. I read your article and just sent an email to the importer you mentioned in Kuala Lumpor, and the message kicked back that they no longer exist at that address. Meantime my new employer wants me there ASAP and I am tearing my hair out!
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Hi Sharon. I totally feel for you and understand your frustration. Sorry that the KL importer listed in the story has changed their contact info (or aren’t in business anymore). But don’t worry – there’s an easy way to find another one: call the KL Quarantine Facility and ask them for the names and contact info of import agents they work with. Here is the contact info for KL Quarantine (they have three, apparently):
+60-3-87872377
+60-3-87872379
+60-3-87871090
As I’m in Penang, I’v only worked with Penang-based pet import/export agents, so I don’t have personal recommendations for you. But I’m sure that the quarantine facility will be able to hook you up with good agents.
Let me know how it goes, and please do share the contact info of the agent you end up using – I’d love to update the story with their contact info so that others in the future will have an agent to contact in KL.
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Hi cimeron. Im wondering if you know for a fact if a pet has to have a rabies vaccine upon leaving KL. Ive read that no rabies vac is required into the US, but my agent is saying it is.
Thx, Tara
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Hi Tara! At the moment, rabies vaccine is required to obtain the export permit from Malaysia. It’s also required by many airlines. So while it may not be required by some importing countries, your pets will need it to leave Malaysia. Hope that helps!
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Hi Sharon,
I am completely with you in the stress involved and am sorry you are having so much trouble due to the urgency.
I, myself, am investigating freight companies to get import permits and quarantine arranged for my pet.
On the Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services (MAQIS) website I found a PDF called “Guide to Import Your Pets to Malaysia” and on it they suggest a list on Import Agents to contact on their website.
The link from the MAQIS “Agents” tab on their site says to go to here:
https://sffla.com/index.php/members/directory?sid=56:Kuala-Lumpur
I am still trying to get one company to give me information but there are lots of companies to contact there as registered import agents.
Failing that you should do what I’ve done go to “contact us” on the MAQIS website and email the Selangor KLIA Quarantine Station directly with your enquiries.
Hope you find success.
Collin.
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Dear Cimeron,
First of all I wanted to thank you so much for all of your help.
I am currently reviewing the Import/Export process to get my pet Poodle Bunny from Viet Nam to Australia.
Your blogs have been instrumental in helping me have clear understanding of what to fight for.
Can I please ask you – did your import agent charge for their service to you? How much did they charge outside of the costs to obtain the Import Permit and the listed documentation you have provided.
I ask this because upon your suggestion I have been in contact with CLI to pass through Kuala Lumpur and they have been insisted on charging upwards of 350US for Airport Charges, Documentation and Delivery as well as “indirect charges”, whatever that is. Just to Import into Malaysia? Mind you I am intending to travel with my pet in-cabin or checked baggage so I don’t understand this cost increase.
As they have been giving me causes for stress I feel it may be time to remove them from your blog as they certainly have been giving me cause for concern.
I have since began talking to MAQIS directly to confirm the correct way forward. Hopefully I recieve better information soon.
Also (sorry for the longwindedness) do you think there is any major benefit to arrange stay in Selangor or Penang respectively? I am at the stage where I am free to look at options anywhere in Malaysia and feel I may change plans to stay in Penang to talk with CL Lee for assistance.
Can you help?
Thank you so much,
Collin.
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Hi Colin,
Yes, CL Lee (my import agent) charged me for his service, and all his costs were built into the charges that I listed in the story. I found his service to be very affordable, but most important, he’s very reliable and got everything done quickly and efficiently. As for CLI, just to be clear, I’m not recommending them per se since I have never had any experience with them personally; they’re just listed as an available agent since some of my readers have used them and had good experiences. Sorry to hear you’re not having a good experience with them. If you find an agent in KL that you like, please do let me know their name and contact info so I can list them in the story. 🙂
Since I only have experience with the quarantine station in Penang, I can’t compare it to the quarantine facility in KL or say which one is better. But I can tell you that my friend just had her two cats stay in the KL quarantine facility and she said they had an air conditioned room and did well.
Hope that helps! Good luck with your move and importing Bunny!
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Hi Colin. I saw this and thght I could add to your inquiry. I moved my two pets from the US to KL about 9 mo ago ( via cabin )
The facilities in KL are fine. But I also stayed near the quarantine station and visited them every day. MOst people did not visit thr pets 😦
You can request air con ( which I strongly recommend) . AND I agree, the cost you are being quoted is RIDICULOUS….
If your intersted I can get you the name and contact of the agent that I used. She lives in KL and works with the quarantine station. VERY reasonable as well.
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Hi Tara,
Thank you for your post. At this stage I am taking any and all help from anyone willing.
Therefore please do provide some contact details (hopefully email) so I may get into contact with the agent you worked with!
Do you have any recommendations on places to stay near the AQS Quarantine?
Thank you 🙂
Collin.
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Hi. Yes. The hotel I stayed at is called Youniq. They also have a driver that can take you to and from the station. Theres also one called Tune Hotel. The staion is pretty flexible with thr schedule as well.
My agents email is [petsinkl.gmail.com] her name is Bev.
http://www.petimportexport.com ( her website)
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Cimeron,
First of all, thank you so much for your initial post, it made my move from NY to Butterworth back in May 2019 a lot easier!
Unfortunately, I am moving back to NY with our two cats in a month, although I hate to put them through this painful process again, I could not bear the thought of leaving them here (I know I am selfish…)
I am just wondering if you have any experiences or tips for moving back to the states (NY) from Malaysia (Penang)?
I am flying Qatar Airways back to NY(JFK) and will be transferred at Doha, according to Qatar Airways customer service, I only need the health certificate, rabies vaccine certificate, microchip info and all other docs I have on them with no additional transfer permit required.
According to CL Lee (thanks again for your recommendation), I would need health certificate, export permit, rabies vaccine, FVRCP vaccine, I also need to bring them to my vet five days prior to my flight for screwworm treatment and then he will have to bring them to a facility to test screwworm and get another certificate. Back in the US, my vet would always print out a vaccination certificate but it seems here in Malaysia, they stick the vaccine labels on your cats’ medical record card instead, there’s no other documents for the vaccination. Would this be problem when we enter the US (JFK)?
As for the document required to enter the US (JFK), all I could find on the websites is the CVI, do you or anyone here has similar experiences? Thanks in advance!
https://agriculture.ny.gov/animals/companion-animals#import—export
https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/pet-travel/bring-pet-into-the-united-states/pet-travel-cats-into-us
https://www.cdc.gov/importation/bringing-an-animal-into-the-united-states/cats.html
https://www.fws.gov/international/permits/by-activity/personal-pets.html
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Hi Scott! Good for you for bringing your cats back with you when you move – they’re your family and belong with you. Don’t worry, the temporary discomfort of the flight will soon be forgotten, and they will be so happy to be with you. I have a whole story about exporting your pets right on this site. Here’s the link with all the details you’ll need: https://ohmyexpatlife.com/2016/10/14/exporting-your-pets-from-malaysia/ And do follow all of CL Lee’s advice, as he is the most up-to-date on export requirements and steps. Best of luck!
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Hi Scott: I just happened to see your post and want to give you any info that may be helpful. Cimeron did post my experience in 2018 when I moved my two cats from the US to Malaysia. I brought them in the cabin with me via KLM. And like you UNFORTUNATELY I had to leave 2 days ago. Immigration refused to renew my visa and I had 4 weeks to pack my apt and prepare my pets once again ( one is 20y/o!!) for travel back to the US. We just arrived last night after a grueling 32 hrs. So, I have to tell you that all the info we gathered as well as what our agent told us we thought that the US would not require any documents. But to our surprise after being in line in immigration ( San Francisco) for over an hour! , they did make us present vaccination records and go to Agriculture area in customs to get checked out. But Im sure not every State does this.
We did have a health certificate and export permit, rabies vaccine as well as the “booster” which is what they call it in Malaysia ( FVRCP) . I have NO idea what the screwworm test is. That is NOT a requirement and it never came up.
Please let me know if I can help with any other info. Its been a tough journey for my babies and I didnt think I would go through it again but we did and we made it.
Oh and also we laid over in Amsterdam and did not need any type of transit permit.
Tara
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Hello – I am looking into moving our 2 cats with us from Seattle to Malaysia and just wanted to ask a few questions about the process of the flight itself.
1. Did you think that Cathay Pacific was a good animal airline – did they keep your cats comfortable and take care of them during the layover?
2. How long was your layover and what did they do with the cats during the layover?
Thanks!
Allyssa
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Hi Allyssa, Cathay was great with our cats. During layover in Hong Kong, the airport mandates that all animals be kept in their special pet cargo room, and they do not allow visitors, so I don’t know what the conditions are like inside the pet cargo room, but our cats lived through it and made it to Penang just fine. Our layover was supposed to be 2 hours, but our first flight was delayed, so they got us on the next flight, which was 9 hours later. Like all other airlines, Cathay has significantly decreased the number of flights they offer, so I hope you’ll be able to find one with a short layover. Good luck with your move!
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