If you are planning to emigrate to Australia with your pet, it is important to understand that you and your pet will each need to go through separate application processes. Your visa application is managed through the Australian Department of Home Affairs, while your pet’s import is controlled by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF). Both need to be prepared carefully and often run in parallel.
Step 1.
Choose the right visa for yourself When emigrating, common visa types include:
- Skilled migration visas if you meet points-based criteria for your occupation.
- Employer-sponsored visas if an Australian employer is hiring you.
- Partner or family visas if you are joining relatives. Each of these has its own eligibility rules. You should use the Visa Finder tool on the Department of Home Affairs website to confirm which visa applies to your situation.
Step 2.
Apply for your visa via ImmiAccount.
Applications are lodged online. You will need to create an ImmiAccount, complete your visa application, upload supporting documents such as passports, medical checks, and police certificates, and pay the application fee.
Step 3.
Begin your pet’s import process early
Australia has very strict biosecurity laws. Dogs and cats can only be imported from approved countries such as the UK. The main steps are:
- Your pet must be microchipped and have an up-to-date rabies vaccination.
- To be eligible for 10 days quarantine, your pet must undergo two OV66 ID checks. Without these, your pet will need to complete a 30-day quarantine instead
- Blood tests (rabies titre test) are required, and these must be done well in advance.
- An import permit application must be lodged with DAFF.
Step 4.
Align timelines for both applications
Your own visa application can take many months, and in some cases, can take longer than your pets import paperwork (which must begin at least 6-7 months before travel). Planning early ensures you and your pet can travel together.
Step 5.
Confirm travel and relocation logistics
Once your visa is approved and your pet’s import permit granted, you can book your flights. Pets must travel as manifest cargo with an approved airline.
Applying for a visa and moving your pet to Australia is a complex process, but PetAir UK can manage the pet side fully, including rabies vaccinations, import permit application, DEFRA export paperwork, and quarantine booking in Australia. This means you can focus on your own visa application while we take care of everything your pet needs.
