Requirements have changed
The Ministry for Primary Industries issued a revised Import Health Standard for Cats and Dogs (CATSDOGS.GEN) on 12 May 2026.
Implementation of the new IHS and related model certificates begins on 1 July 2026.
There is a transition period of 9 months when compliance with both the current (2021) and new (2026) IHS requirements will be acceptable.
Note: from 1 April 2027, all cats and dogs entering New Zealand must meet the requirements of the new IHS, including an official identification (ID) check at least 6 months prior to export. Therefore, from 1 October 2026, the new ID checks will be required.
If you have any questions, email animal.imports@mpi.govt.nz
How to know what requirements to use
It's important you know whether to prepare your cat or dog under the old (2021) or new (2026) import requirements. To find out what set of requirements to use, we recommend you:
- ask the relevant government authority in the country your pet is coming from, or
- check with your pet transport company.
The relevant overseas government authority will be an agency that has similar functions as New Zealand's Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI).