The Kingdom of Bahrain is a rabies-free country and maintains very strict import requirements for pets. As of 2024, a passing FAVN test is required to import cats into Bahrain. Preparation and accuracy matter, small mistakes can delay or deny entry.
Below is a clear, step-by-step overview to help you navigate the process with confidence.
Microchip & Identification Requirements
Your cat must have an ISO-standard, 15-digit microchip
All vaccinations must be administered after the microchip is implanted
The microchip number must appear on the Rabies Certificate
Vaccination Requirements
You must provide two separate sets of vaccinations completed after microchip insertion.
Rabies Vaccine
Must be less than 1 year old
Must be more than 30 days old at the time of arrival
Rabies certificate must be signed in BLUE ink
Microchip number must be listed on the certificate
FVRCP Vaccine
Must be less than 1 year old
Must be more than 30 days old
Two FVRCP vaccinations are required after microchip implantation
FAVN Test Requirement
All pets must have a passing FAVN test
The FAVN must be within 12 months of entry into Bahrain
Import Memo (NSA Bahrain)
After vaccinations and FAVN results are verified:
Obtain an Import Memo from NSA Bahrain Veterinary Treatment Facility
Either you or your sponsor may request the memo
Submit vaccination documentation:
Via email: [email protected]
Or through your sponsor
Your sponsor will take the Import Memo to the
Kingdom of Bahrain Ministry of Agriculture
Animal Wealth Directorate – Veterinary Quarantine Office
Health Certificate Requirements
Your pet must have a Health Certificate (APHIS 7001) from a USDA-accredited veterinarian
A U.S. Army veterinarian may endorse the APHIS 7001 on behalf of the USDA
Certificate must be:
Issued within 10 days of travel
Valid upon arrival in Bahrain
Travel with original rabies certificates signed in BLUE ink
Animal Import Certificate (Permit)
Issued by the Veterinary Quarantine Office
Office Details:
Hours: Sunday–Thursday | 7:30 AM – 1:00 PM
Phone: 1764-3373
Location: BLDG 201, Ave 62, Block 762, Buri, Kingdom of Bahrain
GPS: 26.157711, 50.488186
What to Bring:
Import Memo
Required fee
Cost: BD 17 per pet
Validity: 30 days from issue date
Travel to Bahrain with Pets
AMC Travel (Recommended)
The preferred and recommended method for transporting pets to Bahrain
Commercial Airlines
Pets must arrive as cargo
Pets may NOT arrive in cabin or as excess baggage
Pets arriving commercially must clear Bahraini Customs, which is a different process
Contact your airline and Bahraini authorities for airline-specific requirements
⚠️ Important:
Your sponsor must meet you at the airport with the original Import Permit to clear customs.
Arrival & Clearance Process
All pets must have an Import Permit
Your Pet Relocation Specialist may obtain this on your behalf
Upon arrival:
Pets undergo inspection by government authorities
Includes a nasal swab test for rabies
Clearance typically takes 2–4 hours
Final Tip
Pet travel to Bahrain is manageable, but only with precise timing and documentation. Start early, double-check dates, and keep physical copies of everything in your carry-on.