AFCD optimises quarantine rules for cats and dogs imported from Mainland
The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) announced on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, that quarantine arrangements for cats and dogs imported from the Mainland have been optimised. Animal health certificates issued by official veterinarians from Mainland Customs of all regions are now accepted.
Since June 3, 2025, the Mainland has been classified under Group IIIA, with animal health certificates issued by official veterinarians of Shenzhen Customs. Following the smooth rollout of this first phase, AFCD has expanded the arrangement to accept relevant animal health certificates issued by official veterinarians of Mainland Customs of all regions. Cats and dogs from the Mainland may now enter Hong Kong through the Hong Kong International Airport (as manifested cargo) or by land at designated control points.
Under the updated rules, the quarantine period for cats and dogs can be reduced to 30 days if Group IIIA requirements are met. These include:
- Animal implanted with a conforming microchip
- Holding a valid vaccination certificates for rabies and designated infectious disease
- Obtaining satisfactory rabies antibody titer test results from an AFCD-recognised laboratory (on a blood sample taken 90 days to one year before departure)
- Possessing an animal health certificate issued by Mainland official veterinarians
AFCD will continue to monitor updates from the World Organisation for Animal Health and optimise import quarantine requirements in line with risk assessments, operational experience, and other factors.