Hong Kong Shortens Quarantine Times for Pets- Macau Joins Group IIIA

Pets from Macau now only require 30-day quarantine.

Starting 1 December 2024, Hong Kong’s AFCD has restructured its pet import regulations. Pets from Macau and other Group III countries will now experience reduced quarantine periods under the new Group IIIA classification. Before all Group 3 was a 4 month quarantine, and a massive waiting list often one year long as the Quarantine centres are full. This will reduce the total quarantine time down for this new category.

As more countries get added to this category hopefully the Centers become less over subscribed and so the wait lists also come down as a consequence.

Overview of the Revised Grouping

1. Groups I and II:
   • No changes to the requirements or terms for countries classified under these groups.
2. Group IIIA (New Subgroup):
   • Countries/places from the previous Group III with lower perceived rabies risks.
   • Requires 30 days of quarantine upon arrival in Hong Kong.
   • So far this is limited to MACAU only.
3. Group IIIB (New Subgroup):
   • Countries/places from the previous Group III with higher perceived rabies risks.
   • Requires 120 days of quarantine upon arrival in Hong Kong.

Detailed Requirements for Group IIIA

1. Pre-Importation Requirements:

• Microchip Implantation:

  Animals must be implanted with an ISO-compliant microchip before anti-rabies vaccination or rabies antibody testing.

• Rabies Vaccination:

  • Administered between 30 days to 1 year before departure.
  • Must be an inactivated or recombinant vaccine.

• Rabies Antibody Titer Test:

  • Conducted 90 days to 1 year before departure.
  • The result must show a rabies antibody level of at least 0.5 IU/mL.
  • Tests must be performed in an AFCD-recognized laboratory.
• Comprehensive Vaccination:
  • Dogs: Must be vaccinated against canine distemper, infectious canine hepatitis, and canine parvovirus.
  • Cats: Must be vaccinated against feline panleukopenia and feline respiratory disease complex.

2. Quarantine Requirements:

• 30 Days Minimum Quarantine:

  • Quarantine takes place at an AFCD-managed Animal Management Centre.
  • The quarantine period may be extended at the discretion of the Senior Veterinary Officer.

3. Certification Documentation:

• Must include:
  • Health Certificate (issued within 7 days before departure).
  • Anti-rabies Vaccination Certificate.
  • Rabies Antibody Test Certificate.
  • Vaccination Records.

4. Transportation Standards:

• Animals must travel as manifested cargo (not as hand baggage).
• Must comply with IATA Live Animal Regulations for humane treatment during transport.

Highlights of Group IIIB

• Extended Quarantine:

  Animals from Group IIIB countries are subject to 120 days of quarantine in Hong Kong.

• Higher Documentation Scrutiny:

  Same vaccination and health certificate requirements as Group IIIA, with stricter enforcement.

Impact of Changes on Existing Permits

• Permits already issued for imports or transits from countries previously under Group III will remain valid until their expiry. However, importers are encouraged to verify the terms to ensure compliance with the updated regulations.

Next Steps for Pet Owners 

1. Plan Ahead:

   • Quarantine bookings are limited. Apply early to secure a spot for your pet.
   • Ensure all vaccinations and tests are up-to-date according to the new requirements.

2. Consult Experts:

   • Engage Ferndale, a professional pet relocation service to navigate the new procedures seamlessly. Contact form below!
   • Reach out to AFCD for guidance on recognized laboratories and documentation standards.

3. Stay Informed:

   • Visit the AFCD website for the latest updates and country classifications under Group IIIA and IIIB.

Conclusion

The revised importation requirements reinforce Hong Kong’s commitment to preventing rabies and ensuring animal welfare. While these updates may seem complex, adhering to them will smooth the process of bringing your furry companions into the city.

For assistance, please reach out to our pet relocation experts at Ferndale Kennels. Let us help you every step of the way in bringing your pet to Hong Kong.

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