India Relaxes Pet Import Rules for Citizens Amid Middle East Crisis

The Government of India has announced a temporary relaxation in pet import rules to help Indian citizens returning from the conflict-affected Middle East bring their pets back home.

The decision was issued through an official memorandum dated 12 March 2026 by the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying. The move is intended to support citizens who may not be able to complete the usual export procedures for pets due to the ongoing emergency situation.

Temporary Humanitarian Measure

Authorities clarified that this relaxation is a one-time humanitarian measure and applies only to the current crisis. It is designed to ensure that families evacuating from affected regions do not have to abandon their pets because of missing paperwork or incomplete documentation.

The government emphasized that this should not be considered a permanent change to India’s pet import regulations.

Basic Requirements for Pet Owners

Indian citizens travelling back to India with their pets under this relaxation must still meet certain basic conditions:

• Owners must declare that the pet has been living with them for at least one month.
• Any available vaccination records such as pet passports, vaccination certificates, or pet books should be provided.
• Pet owners are advised to have their pets examined by a veterinarian before departure.
• Incomplete vaccination records may still be accepted under this special provision.

Procedures After Arrival in India

Once the pet arrives in India, it will undergo inspection by Animal Quarantine and Certification Services (AQCS) at the airport.

Officials will review the documents and conduct a clinical health examination before granting entry clearance.

If mandatory vaccinations, including rabies vaccination, are missing or overdue, the pet may receive the vaccine at the airport. The vaccination cost will need to be paid by the owner.

In cases where veterinarians detect health concerns, the pet may be placed under quarantine, and related expenses will be borne by the owner.

Not a Permanent Policy Change

The government has clearly stated that the relaxation is strictly temporary and has been introduced only to assist Indian citizens affected by the current situation in the Middle East.

By allowing this flexibility, authorities aim to ensure that returning families can travel safely with their pets rather than leaving them behind during the crisis.