Relocating with your pet to Australia

Step 1: Microchip Identification​

Your pet must have a microchip that meets ISO standards. This is the first and most important step—your pet’s microchip number will appear on every official document. 

 

Step 2: Rabies Vaccination​

Australia is rabies-free, so a valid rabies vaccination is mandatory. The vaccine must be given after microchipping and be up to date at the time of travel. 

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Step 3: OV66 ID Checks

The OV66 process was introduced to reduce your pet’s quarantine period from 30 days to just 10. To qualify, your pet must undergo two separate identification checks performed by two different OV66-accredited veterinarians from separate veterinary practices.

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Pets returning to Australia with valid export documentation do not need to complete this step.

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Step 4: Rabies Neutralising Antibody Titre Test (RNATT)

At least 180 days before travel, pets must have a RNATT blood test processed by an approved laboratory. This test confirms your pet has adequate rabies antibody levels. It’s recommended to perform the blood test approximately 30 days after your pet’s rabies vaccination. This can be done at the same time as the 2nd OV66 ID Check. 

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Step 5: Rabies Neutralising Antibody Titre Test (RNATT) Declaration

An RNATT Declaration must be completed by an OV66 Official Veterinarian who did not perform the original RNATT blood test. This document certifies that your pet has been vaccinated for rabies and has successfully passed their RNATT. 

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Step 6: Obtain an Import Permit

You’ll need to apply for an Australian import permit, issued by DAFF, once your pet passes the RNATT. This is a key document for booking flights and quarantine. 

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Step 7: Book Quarantine Accommodation

All pets entering Australia must complete their minimum 10-day stay at the Mickleham Post Entry Quarantine Facility in Melbourne. Space is limited, so early booking is advised. 

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Step 8: Flight Arrangements

Work with an IPATA-accredited pet travel agent to arrange flights to Australia. Most airlines require professional handling and IATA-approved travel crates.

 

Step 9: Pre-Export Bloodwork & Parasite Treatment

The pre-export steps vary depending on whether you’re relocating a dog or a cat. Dogs usually need extra blood tests as well as parasite treatments, while cats generally just need parasite treatments.

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Step 10: Final Veterinary Certification & Parasite Treatment

Your Official Veterinarian (OV) will issue the required Export Health Certificate (EHC) along with administering the final parasite treatments . These confirm your pet has met the requirements and is fit to travel.

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Step 11: Departure Day

Before departure, ensure your pet’s microchip, documents, and crate are all checked and verified. We recommend obtaining your pet’s travel crate well in advance to allow them time to become familiar and comfortable with it before the journey.

 

Step 12: Arrival & Quarantine in Australia

Once your pet arrives, they’ll spend their quarantine period under expert care. After clearance, they’ll be reunited with you for their new life Down Under!

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Which steps must be completed by an OV66?

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Steps 3, 4, 5 & 10 

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✈️ Let Wolf Veterinary Services Help

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From Rabies Vaccination to EHC certification, our London-based vets make the process smooth and compliant. We handle every detail so your pet’s relocation to Australia is stress-free and successful.

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PLEASE NOTE: The OV66 Veterinarian who obtains the RNATT sample CANNOT complete any other OV66 steps. Please consider this when booking with us. 

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📞 Contact us today to start your pet’s Australia travel plan.