Official Import Rules
- A current rabies vaccination is required, along with a government-endorsed veterinary health certificate. Microchip is recommended.
- An import permit / No Objection Certificate (NOC) is required. In 2025 an ordinance dissolved the standalone Animal Quarantine Department and merged its functions (along with the Department of Plant Protection) into a new body, the National Agri-trade and Food Safety Authority (NAFSA), under the Ministry of National Food Security & Research. NAFSA is taking over quarantine and import-permit responsibilities during a transition period, so confirm with the ministry whether your application should now go through NAFSA rather than the former AQD.
- Health certificate must be issued within 10 days of travel.
- Arrival is permitted through Islamabad (ISB), Lahore (LHE), or Karachi (KHI) airports.
- Quarantine inspection takes place on arrival.
Free route planner
Turn these rules into your cat's step-by-step plan
Get a free checklist, timeline and cost estimate built around this destination.
Medical Roadmap
Microchip (ISO 11784/11785)
Rabies vaccination (at least 30 days before travel)
Apply for NOC (No Objection Certificate) / import permit — now transitioning to the National Agri-trade and Food Safety Authority (NAFSA), which is absorbing the former Animal Quarantine Department's functions under the Ministry of National Food Security & Research. Confirm the current processing authority before applying.
Health certificate within 10 days of travel
Government endorsement
Arrive at Islamabad (ISB), Karachi (KHI), or Lahore (LHE)
Inspection by quarantine officer on arrival
Preparation Checklist
2 months before
1 month before
10 days before
Travel day
Cost Breakdown
Quarantine Information
None if documentation complete
City & Housing Tips
Islamabad, Karachi (DHA, Clifton), and Lahore have vet facilities. Pakistan has a growing pet culture, particularly among the urban middle and upper classes. Cat ownership is increasingly popular. Many homes and apartments in upscale areas welcome cats.
Vets & Common Parasites
Moderate vet care in major cities. Islamabad and Lahore have several decent clinics. Karachi has the most options. Quality varies widely. Rabies is endemic — keep vaccinations current. Basic medications are affordable but specialist care is limited.
Find Vets in PakistanExit Rules — Leaving Pakistan
Exit requires a health certificate from an approved vet. Processing varies — allow 3–5 working days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Increasingly yes. Cats hold a respected place in Islamic culture, and urban Pakistan has a growing pet ownership trend. Cat cafes have opened in Islamabad and Lahore.
Yes, rabies is endemic. Keep vaccinations strictly current and avoid contact with stray animals.
Yes. An NOC / import permit is required. As of 2025 the former Animal Quarantine Department was dissolved and its functions merged into the new National Agri-trade and Food Safety Authority (NAFSA), under the Ministry of National Food Security & Research. During this transition, confirm with the ministry whether your application should be submitted to NAFSA rather than the former quarantine authority, and start the process early to avoid delays.
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 Pakistan 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.