CBIC Circular 11/2026 eases pet import formalities for Indian nationals returning from conflict hit Middle East countries, including the UAE. Here is what dog and cat owners need to know about documentation, vaccinations, and AQCS clearance under the new temporary measure.
What Changed: CBIC Circular 11/2026 at a Glance
On 16 March 2026, the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) published Circular No. 11/2026, granting a one time relaxation of pet import formalities for Indian passport holders returning from conflict affected Middle Eastern nations, including the UAE. The circular was coordinated with the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD) and applies exclusively to pet dogs and pet cats. It is designed to prevent family animals from being abandoned when owners face evacuation or urgent repatriation.
The key relaxations include: reduced ownership proof (a self declaration confirming at least one month of custody), acceptance of rabies vaccination records even if the booster is overdue by up to 15 days, and a provision for pets arriving without a veterinary health certificate to be cleared after clinical inspection and on the spot rabies vaccination at the Indian port of entry.
Who Is Eligible
Eligibility is limited to Indian passport holders who have been residing in Middle Eastern countries and are returning under evacuation or repatriation circumstances. The pet must be a dog or a cat in the owner's personal custody for a minimum of one month, confirmed by a signed self declaration. The relaxation is available at Indian airports where Animal Quarantine and Certification Services (AQCS) offices operate, including Indira Gandhi International Airport (Delhi), Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (Mumbai), Kempegowda International Airport (Bengaluru), Chennai International Airport, Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (Hyderabad), and Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (Kolkata).
Indian nationals returning under routine, non emergency conditions should continue to follow the standard DAHD pet import protocol described further below.
Vaccination Requirements Under the Relaxation
Rabies: A Critical Concern in India
India remains one of the countries where rabies is endemic, accounting for a significant proportion of global rabies related fatalities each year. The standard import requirement mandates a valid rabies vaccination administered no fewer than 30 days and no more than 12 months before arrival. Under the relaxation:
- Records showing the most recent booster is overdue by up to 15 days are still accepted.
- If no vaccination record exists, AQCS officers will administer a rabies vaccine at the airport. The cost (typically in the range of ₹500 to ₹1,500 depending on the vaccine brand and airport facility) is borne by the pet owner.
Given India's rabies burden, completing post arrival vaccination promptly is not optional; it is a public health imperative. The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960 and various municipal regulations across Indian states reinforce the responsibility of pet owners to maintain current rabies immunisation.
Core Vaccinations for Dogs
DAHD guidelines require dogs to be vaccinated against canine distemper, leptospirosis, and rabies. Leptospirosis is particularly relevant in India due to monsoon flooding between June and September, which increases the risk of waterborne transmission. Under the emergency circular, incomplete vaccination records do not disqualify entry, but owners should carry whatever documentation is available. Supplementary vaccinations can be administered by a registered veterinarian in India after arrival.
Core Vaccinations for Cats
Cats must be vaccinated against rabies and feline panleukopenia. Partial records are accepted under the circular, with additional doses given at the port of entry or during the post arrival veterinary visit.
Documentation: What to Carry
Even under relaxed rules, thorough documentation speeds up clearance. The following checklist covers both emergency and standard scenarios:
- Indian passport (original and photocopy)
- Signed self declaration of pet ownership (minimum one month custody)
- Pet vaccination certificate, pet booklet, or pet passport (whatever is available)
- Veterinary health certificate from the country of origin or a transit country (if obtainable)
- ISO 11784/11785 compliant 15 digit microchip implantation record
- Flight itinerary or boarding pass
- Two recent passport sized photographs of the pet (requested by some AQCS offices)
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the destination AQCS office (if time permitted advance filing)
If departing from a zone where government veterinary services are disrupted, a health certificate from a transit country (such as Oman, Qatar, or Bahrain) is accepted by AQCS.
The NOC Process: Standard vs Emergency
Under normal conditions, the NOC application must be submitted to the AQCS office at the intended Indian airport at least 15 days before arrival. The application requires microchip details, vaccination records, owner ID, and travel itinerary. Under the emergency relaxation, the 15 day advance filing requirement may be waived. However, contacting the AQCS office as early as possible remains strongly advisable. Applications can be initiated through the DAHD portal at dahd.gov.in.
Microchip Requirements
All imported dogs and cats must carry an ISO 11784/11785 compliant 15 digit microchip, ideally implanted before the primary rabies vaccination. If the rabies vaccine was given before microchipping, the vaccination typically needs to be repeated post implantation. AQCS officers may exercise discretion on microchip timing under the emergency circular, but meeting this requirement where possible avoids complications.
Step by Step Timeline for Returning Pet Owners
8 to 12 Weeks Before Travel
Confirm that the pet is a dog or cat (exotic animals, birds, and reptiles are excluded). Gather available ownership documentation. If relocation is planned rather than emergency, begin the NOC application with the relevant AQCS office.
6 to 8 Weeks Before Travel
Have the pet microchipped if not already done. Schedule the rabies vaccination at least 30 days before departure. In the UAE, veterinary clinics in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah routinely handle export preparation for pets.
1 to 2 Weeks Before Travel
Obtain a veterinary health certificate. In the UAE, the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) issues export health certificates. In a conflict zone where services are disrupted, document the situation and carry partial records.
2 to 4 Weeks Before Travel
Book airline pet transport early. Ensure the travel crate meets IATA Live Animals Regulations: sturdy construction, adequate ventilation, leak proof floor, and sufficient space for the animal to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably. Crate costs in India typically range from ₹3,000 to ₹15,000 depending on size.
Travel Day
Keep all original documents in hand luggage. Arrive at the departure airport well ahead of the flight. Ensure the pet has access to water in the crate, and label the crate with Live Animal stickers, owner contact details, and feeding instructions.
Arrival in India
Proceed to the AQCS counter at the destination airport. Officers will inspect documents and conduct a clinical examination. If vaccinations are missing or overdue, a rabies vaccination will be administered on the spot (owner pays). Allow 2 to 4 hours for inspection, paperwork, and release. Pets are typically released the same day.
Post Arrival: Settling Your Pet in India
Veterinary Visit Within 7 Days
Schedule a comprehensive health check with a registered veterinarian within the first week. Update missing vaccinations, register the microchip with a local database if applicable, and discuss any travel related stress. The Veterinary Council of India (VCI) maintains a registry of licensed practitioners across states.
Heat Acclimatisation
India's climate presents significant challenges for pets arriving from air conditioned environments in the Gulf. Summer temperatures across the Indo Gangetic plains routinely exceed 45°C between April and June. Brachycephalic breeds (such as Pugs, Bulldogs, and Persian cats) are at elevated risk of heatstroke. Veterinary guidelines recommend gradual outdoor exposure, access to cool water at all times, and avoiding walks during peak heat (11:00 to 16:00). Indoor temperatures should be maintained below 30°C where possible.
Monsoon Precautions
If arriving between June and September, be aware that leptospirosis risk spikes during the monsoon. Stagnant water, flooding, and increased stray animal contact all raise infection risks. Keep vaccinations current, avoid letting pets wade through floodwater, and use tick and flea preventatives, as vector borne diseases such as ehrlichiosis and babesiosis are common across most Indian states.
Breed Restrictions in India
DAHD has issued notifications restricting the import and breeding of certain dog breeds classified as dangerous. As of 2026, this list includes breeds such as Pitbull Terriers, American Bulldogs, Rottweilers, and several others specified in the relevant DAHD notification. Owners of restricted breeds should verify current regulations with the DAHD or the AQCS office before travel, as bringing a restricted breed into India may result in the animal being denied entry regardless of the emergency relaxation.
What the Relaxation Does Not Cover
- Species: Only dogs and cats qualify. Birds, rabbits, reptiles, and exotic pets are excluded.
- Commercial imports: The circular applies to personal pets only, not animals imported for sale or breeding.
- Existing breed bans: DAHD breed restrictions remain fully in effect.
- Duration: This is a one time emergency measure. Once the designated period ends, standard rules resume.
Key Contacts and Emergency Resources
- DAHD (Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying): dahd.gov.in for AQCS office contact details and NOC application forms.
- CBIC Helpdesk: cbic.gov.in for customs related queries regarding pet import clearance.
- Indian Embassy or Consulate in the UAE: Contact the nearest Indian mission for assistance with travel coordination and documentation.
- Veterinary Council of India (VCI): vci.nic.in for verification of registered veterinary practitioners across Indian states.
Local Veterinary Hospital
Contact your nearest veterinary hospital or government veterinary dispensary for emergency care.
India does not have a national pet emergency hotline. Major cities have private 24-hour vet clinics. In rural areas, contact the district veterinary officer.
Printable Checklist
- Confirm pet species eligibility (dog or cat only)
- Verify breed is not on the DAHD restricted list
- Sign self declaration of ownership (minimum one month custody)
- Implant ISO 11784/11785 microchip
- Administer rabies vaccine (30 days to 12 months before travel; 15 day grace under the relaxation)
- Complete core vaccinations (distemper, leptospirosis for dogs; panleukopenia for cats)
- Obtain veterinary health certificate (government vet or transit country authority)
- Apply for NOC at destination AQCS office (15 days before travel if possible)
- Book airline pet transport and acquire IATA compliant crate (₹3,000 to ₹15,000)
- Prepare document folder: passport, self declaration, vaccination records, health certificate, microchip record, NOC, flight details, pet photos
- Complete export clearance at departure airport
- Clear AQCS inspection on arrival in India
- Schedule post arrival veterinary visit within 7 days
- Plan heat acclimatisation and monsoon precautions based on arrival season
Frequently Asked Questions
Which pets are covered by CBIC Circular 11/2026? ↓
Do I still need an NOC from AQCS under the relaxed rules? ↓
What happens if my pet has no rabies vaccination record? ↓
Can I bring a restricted breed into India under this relaxation? ↓
How long does AQCS clearance take on arrival? ↓
What precautions should I take for my pet in Indian summer heat? ↓
Tom Ashford
Pet Safety & Home Consultant
Pet safety and home-proofing specialist — systematic hazard prevention and emergency preparedness for pet owners.
Content Disclosure
This article was created using state-of-the-art AI models with human editorial oversight. It is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute veterinary medical advice. Always consult a licensed veterinarian for your pet's specific health needs. Learn more about our process.
