Travel Information for South Korea

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General Requirements for Pet Travel to South Korea

  • All vaccinations, treatments, and blood tests must be completed by a USDA-Accredited Veterinarian.
  • Pets travel to Korea has no wait after a successful FAVN draw
  • Pets must have a Rabies prior to FAVN, pets can technically have a microchip implanted after rabies before FAVN but we don't recommend this as it can make for more complicated costly returns.
  • Direct flights with Korean Air for small pets are possible only out of LAX due to arrival time
  • Pets that arrive after hours into Korea are left in warehouse unattended

Step-by-Step Pet Import Process

  • Must be ISO-compatible and implanted before the first rabies vaccine.
  • Microchip number must be readable and match all documents.
  • At least one rabies vaccine required after microchip implantation.
    • Pet must be at least 91 days old.
  • Original signed rabies certificates must accompany pet.
  • Completed by USDA-accredited vet 31 days or more after rabies vaccination.
  • Must show ≥ 0.50 IU/mL and be from an approved lab (e.g., KSU Rabies Lab).
  • Valid for 2 years if rabies vaccines remain current.
  • Original test result must travel with the pet.
    • Korea International Health Certificate for Dogs and Cats required, not standard APHIS 7001.
    • Must be signed by a USDA-accredited vet within 10 days of travel and USDA-endorsed.
    • USDA-endorsed health certificate with raised seal will be overnighted to the client.
    • Originals must travel with your pet.
  • If all requirements are met: Same day release from quarantine.
  • We will not fly pets that do not meet quarantine compliance

Required Travel Documents

  • Microchip verification documents
  • Rabies vaccination certificate(s)
  • Endorsed South Korea Health Certificate
  • Additional forms for pets requiring medication or special care

Pet Import Restrictions

Banned Breeds & Hybrids

  • None at this time.

Age & Pregnancy Restrictions

  • Pets cannot be more than 30 days pregnant at the time of travel.
  • No suckling young are allowed to travel.

Other Important Information

Approved Kennels for Travel

  • Pets must travel in an IATA-compliant kennel.
  • Familiarize your pet with the crate before travel.

How We Can Help

Pet Relocator specialize in seamless pet relocation and handle:

  • Flight bookings
  • Crates selection and preparations
  • USDA veterinary endorsements
  • Final health certificate processing
  • USDA compliance

Let us take care of the details so you can focus on your move. Request a quote today!


Additional Resources