Official Import Rules
Laos requires a rabies vaccination certificate and a veterinary health certificate endorsed by the origin country's competent authority. A microchip is recommended.
An import license (permit) from the Department of Livestock and Fisheries is required for all live cats imported into Lao PDR, as confirmed under Decision 0795/MAF (18 April 2019). The DLF Animal Health Certificate template also explicitly states that a valid DLF import license must be obtained before shipment. Documentation requirements can be inconsistently enforced, so bring comprehensive paperwork.
Official Lao Trade Portal guidance says the livestock import procedure requires the application form, ID or passport copy, letter of attorney where an agent is used, and enterprise registration documents where applicable. On the import day, the animal health certificate from the origin country's veterinary authority, airway bill or bill of lading, and vaccination certificate may also be requested.
The official MAF website has been offline for several months. Archived contact details for the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry are available through the Wayback Machine: Tel 021-412345, Fax 021-412344, email maf.infro@gmail.com.
Bengal and Savannah cat crosses up to and including the 4th generation cannot be imported into Lao PDR under standard pet import regulations.
Import Permit
An import permit from the Department of Livestock and Fisheries (DLF) is required for all live cats imported into Lao PDR. The official dog/cat certificate says the DLF import license must be obtained before shipment.
The Lao Trade Portal procedure says the import permit application should be submitted to DLF at least 15 days before the expected arrival date. Once all documents are complete, DLF assesses the risk and issues the permit within 5 working days. The listed permit fee is 50,000 KIP per application.
The official procedure describes submitting documents to DLF and obtaining the permit at DLF. Contact DLF/MAF in advance to confirm whether scanned advance copies are accepted and whether an authorised representative can collect the original permit.
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Medical Roadmap
Microchip recommended and scanned before export
Rabies vaccination at least 1 month before export
Apply for DLF import permit at least 15 days before arrival
Cat core vaccines at least 14 days before export, plus parasite treatment 2-7 days before export
Official health certificate endorsed within 7 days of export
Arrive at Wattay International Airport (VTE) Vientiane
Preparation Checklist
2 months before
1 month before
10 days before
Travel day
Cost Breakdown
Quarantine Information
None if documentation complete
City & Housing Tips
Vientiane is the main city with basic infrastructure. Luang Prabang is popular with tourists but has minimal vet services. Laos has a very relaxed attitude toward animals. Vet care is extremely limited throughout the country.
Vets & Common Parasites
Very limited vet care. Vientiane has a few basic clinics. For anything serious, evacuation to Thailand (Udon Thani or Bangkok) is the standard approach. Bring essential medications and a first-aid kit. Rabies is endemic.
Find Vets in LaosExit Rules — Leaving Laos
Exit requires a health certificate from a licensed vet. Processing varies — allow several days. Cross-border travel to Thailand or Vietnam may have simplified procedures.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Lao Trade Portal procedure says the importer submits documents to DLF and obtains the permit at DLF. Contact DLF or MAF before travel to confirm whether scanned advance copies are accepted and whether an authorised representative can collect the permit.
The official dog/cat certificate includes a rabies serology section only when required. Confirm with DLF for your origin country. Cats that do not meet Laos rabies control requirements may face vaccination on arrival and home confinement for at least 21 days.
Very limited. Vientiane has basic clinics but for anything serious, most expats cross the Friendship Bridge to Udon Thani, Thailand (1 hour from Vientiane).
Yes, rabies is endemic in Laos. Keep vaccinations current and avoid contact with stray animals.
Possible via the Friendship Bridge, but documentation requirements apply at the border. Check with DLF and Thai DLD before attempting.
Community Tips
Start the paperwork at least 4–6 months before your travel date. Airline pet policies change frequently — always confirm directly with your carrier close to departure.
Have you moved to Laos with your cat? Share your experience and help other travellers.
CatAbroad Editorial
Researched by cat lovers with real international relocation experience. Checked against official government sources and updated regularly. Found an error? Let us know.