MPI Cuts Pet Export Fees and Begins 2026 Import Standards

The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) of New Zealand has implemented major updates to its pet travel and biosecurity regulations, effective from 1 July 2026. For New Zealand pet owners planning to relocate overseas with their companion animals, the most notable change is a significant reduction in the regulatory unit charge for exporting live cats and dogs. Concurrently, MPI has activated the new 2026 Import Health Standard (IHS) for importing cats and dogs into the country, accompanied by a nine-month transition window designed to minimise disruption for incoming pet owners.

Reduction in Pet Export Charges

MPI operates its animal welfare and biosecurity certification services on a cost-recovery basis, as outlined in the Animal Welfare Act 1999 and the Biosecurity Act 1993. When the revenue generated by specific services exceeds or falls short of the actual cost of delivery, MPI adjusts its fee schedules during its annual cost recovery package reviews.

Under the newly implemented 2026 Annual Cost Recovery Package, the unit charge for exporting live cats and dogs (including canine and feline semen) has been reduced to $66.52 per animal, down from the previous rate of $114.44. MPI determined that the previous fee structure was over-recovering costs, largely driven by higher-than-expected volumes of domestic pet exports in recent years. By lowering the charge, the regulatory body aims to align its fees with the actual operational costs and prevent further accumulation of surplus funds.

It is important for pet owners to recognise that this unit charge represents only the MPI-specific export certification fee. Total export costs will still vary depending on private service providers. Pet owners must still factor in fees charged by registered veterinarians for compulsory clinical examinations, travel treatments, vaccinations, and microchip verifications. Additionally, private pet transportation agencies, airline freight charges, and approved travel crates will incur separate costs.

New 2026 Import Health Standards (IHS)

For incoming travellers and returning residents, the new Import Health Standard (IHS) for cats and dogs officially takes effect on 1 July 2026. This updated standard introduces several amendments to protect New Zealand’s biosecurity status. As an island nation free from rabies and many other severe companion animal diseases, maintaining strict border controls is essential for safeguarding local wildlife and the domestic pet population.

The key updates in the 2026 standard include:

• Transit Restrictions: The updated regulations eliminate the option to transit dogs or cats through non-categorised or high-risk countries. All transit stopovers must occur in approved locations where biosecurity risks are strictly monitored.
• Disease Testing Schedules: MPI has refined the testing requirements for specific canine vector-borne diseases. Importers should consult government veterinary advice to verify current pre-export test protocols.
• Nine-Month Transition Window: To assist pet owners who have already commenced the import process, MPI is providing a transition period. Until 1 April 2027, animals entering New Zealand can comply with either the older 2021 IHS rules or the new 2026 IHS standards, provided all criteria under the selected standard are met in full.

Practical Advice for Pet Travel

Whether you are exporting a companion animal to Australia or importing a new pet to New Zealand, planning must begin early. The preparation process for international pet travel regularly requires three to six months. Importers and exporters must ensure that their animals are microchipped with an ISO-compliant 15-digit microchip, receive all necessary parasite treatments within specified veterinary timelines, and obtain a valid permit to import or export.

Once your pet has cleared border inspections and settled into their new environment, local regulations must be followed. For dogs in New Zealand, this includes registering the animal with your local city or district council, as rules and dog registration fees differ across regions.

To learn more about local requirements, you can check our detailed guide on Dog Microchipping and Registration in NZ or consult our New Dog Owner Checklist: First 30 Days NZ for advice on settling a dog in. If you are bringing a new feline home, refer to our New Kitten Checklist NZ. For all questions regarding veterinary treatments, medications, or travel safety, please contact a registered veterinarian to ensure the health and safety of your companion animal.

Sources

• https://www.mpi.govt.nz/consultations/proposed-changes-to-cost-recovery-settings-2026-annual-review
• https://www.mpi.govt.nz/take-or-send-from-nz/pets-leaving-nz/sending-cats-and-dogs-to-australia/fees-and-charges-for-exporting-cats-and-dogs-to-australia
• https://www.mpi.govt.nz/export/live-animals/fees-and-charges-for-exporting-live-animals/