New MPI Import Rules for Cats and Dogs Effective July 2026

Biosecurity New Zealand (MPI) has announced that a new Import Health Standard (IHS) for importing cats and dogs will come into effect on 1 July 2026. This regulation represents a significant update to the guidelines governing how companion animals can be brought into New Zealand, aiming to strengthen biosecurity protections while accommodating pet owners with a transitional buffer.

New Zealand remains free from rabies and many other serious animal diseases. Protecting this unique status is critical for local ecosystems, native wildlife, and the domestic pet population. Under the Biosecurity Act 1993, the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) manages strict border controls. The Import Health Standard (IHS) defines the exact pre-export treatments, testing schedules, and documentation required for pets arriving from different regions of the world.

Key Changes in the 2026 Import Health Standard

The upcoming 2026 standard introduces several adjustments designed to enhance biosecurity safeguards:

• Tightened Transit Restrictions: The new rules remove the option to transit pets through non-categorised countries. All stopovers must occur in approved locations where biosecurity risks can be managed.
• Adjusted Disease Testing: The updated standard modifies pre-export testing requirements for specific canine diseases, including *Brucella canis* and *Babesia gibsoni*. It also adds mandatory veterinary examinations prior to administering rabies blood tests.
• Transition Period: To prevent disruption for pet owners who have already begun the lengthy import preparation process, MPI has introduced a nine-month transition window. Until 1 April 2027, importers can choose to comply with either the current 2021 standard or the new 2026 standard.

Navigating the Country Categories

The requirements for bringing a dog or cat to New Zealand depend on the rabies status of the country of origin. MPI groups countries into three categories:

1. Category 1 (Rabies-free): This category includes countries like Australia and Singapore. While pets from these locations do not require rabies vaccinations, rabies blood testing, or quarantine, they must still undergo veterinary examinations and parasite treatments. For example, dogs imported from Australia must be microchipped and certified by a government-approved veterinarian. 2. Category 2 (Rabies-controlled): This includes countries with low rabies risk. Pets must be vaccinated against rabies and undergo testing, but they generally require a shorter quarantine period or none at all if all conditions are met. 3. Category 3 (Rabies-active): Countries with higher rabies risks. Pets must undergo a strict regime of rabies vaccinations, blood tests, and a minimum of 10 days in an approved quarantine facility upon arrival in New Zealand.

Practical Steps for Importers

Importing a pet is a highly technical process. Importers should begin preparations at least six months in advance, as certain blood tests and vaccination schedules require specific waiting periods. MPI recommends employing a professional pet exporter to navigate the paperwork, flight bookings, and quarantine reservations. Even a minor error in medication timing or certificate wording can lead to a pet being held in quarantine or returned to its origin at the owner's expense.

The preparation process involves multiple steps:

• Step 1: Check Eligibility. Confirm that the country of origin is approved by MPI.
• Step 2: Microchipping. Ensure the pet has an ISO 11784/11785 compliant 15-digit microchip.
• Step 3: Rabies Vaccination and Testing. For Category 2 and 3 countries, administer rabies vaccine and perform a rabies antibody titre test.
• Step 4: Book Quarantine. Reserve a space at an MPI-approved private quarantine facility.
• Step 5: Apply for Permit. Submit an application for an MPI Permit to Import.
• Step 6: Pre-export Health Checks. Undergo final veterinary inspections and treatments for internal and external parasites.

Once your pet successfully clears the border and arrives at your new home, you will need to settle them into New Zealand life. This includes registering your dog with the local council or ensuring your cat complies with local bylaws.

For details on local requirements, see our guide on Dog Microchipping and Registration in NZ and advice for the New Dog Owner Checklist: First 30 Days NZ. If you are welcoming a feline companion, you can read our New Kitten Checklist NZ.

Sources

• https://www.mpi.govt.nz/
• https://www.spca.nz/