Bringing a pet home from Bali is not just a logistical decision—it’s often an emotional one. Many expats and travelers meet their furry soulmates here: a rescued street dog, a villa cat that never left, or a companion adopted from a shelter. If you’re planning to relocate and can’t imagine leaving your pet behind, this guide walks you through everything you need to know to legally and safely export your dog or cat from Bali.
While the process may seem complicated, it’s absolutely possible—with time, planning, and a deep commitment to your pet’s wellbeing.
Is It Legal to Export Pets from Bali?
In short: direct export from Bali is not allowed.
Since Bali is considered a rabies-infected zone, the Indonesian government prohibits the import and export of pets to and from the island. This means you cannot legally fly your pet directly out of Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS).
However, there is a legal workaround: your pet can travel from Bali to Jakarta or Surabaya, where all official export procedures are carried out. From there, your pet can fly to your destination country under international compliance.
What Are the Requirements to Export a Dog or Cat from Indonesia?
Exporting your pet from Indonesia involves veterinary, legal, and logistical steps. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:
1. Microchip Implantation
Your pet must have an ISO-compliant microchip (11784/11785) as a form of international identification. This is required before any vaccinations are administered.
2. Rabies Vaccination
Most countries require your pet to be vaccinated against rabies at least 30 days before travel. The vaccine must be administered by a licensed veterinarian and documented properly.
3. Rabies Antibody Titer Test (RNATT)
For destinations such as Europe, the UK, the U.S., Australia, and New Zealand, your pet must pass a rabies titer test proving the vaccine was effective.
- Conducted 30 days after the rabies shot
- Must show antibody levels of at least 0.5 IU/mL
- Triggers a waiting period:
- 90 days for the UK and Europe
- 180 days for Australia and New Zealand
4. Veterinary Health Certificate
This official certificate confirms your pet is healthy and fit to fly. It must be issued by a government-approved veterinarian in coordination with Balai Karantina Pertanian (the Agricultural Quarantine Office).
5. Export Permit
Issued by the Directorate General of Livestock and Animal Health Services (DGLAHS) in Jakarta. This is your pet’s legal authorization to leave Indonesia.
6. Import Permit and Quarantine Reservation (If Required)
- Australia and New Zealand require both an import permit and a pre-booked stay at a government quarantine facility.
- The UK, EU, and U.S. do not require quarantine if all paperwork and health requirements are correctly fulfilled.
How Do I Transport My Pet from Bali to Jakarta or Surabaya?
Because direct flights from Bali are not allowed, your pet must be transported to a city where animal export is authorized. Most owners use air cargo services or pet relocation agencies to safely move their pets from Bali to Jakarta or Surabaya.
Once in Jakarta or Surabaya:
- Your pet undergoes final health inspection and documentation review
- The export permit is validated
They are cleared to board an international flight to your chosen destination
Should I Use a Pet Relocation Agency?
While it is possible to handle the process independently, many pet owners choose to work with experienced pet relocation agencies to avoid missteps. These professionals can coordinate:
- Health checks and vaccinations
- Export permits
- Air cargo booking and crate preparation
- Communication with destination authorities
Reputable agencies in Indonesia include:
- Groovy Pet Transport (Jakarta)
- Bali Pet Crusaders (referral and medical support)
- Jakarta Animal Transit
PetRelocation.com (international coordination)
How Long Does Pet Relocation from Bali Take?
The full process usually takes 3 to 6 months, depending on your destination and how quickly you complete the required steps:
Step | Estimated Time |
Rabies vaccination wait | 30 days |
Rabies titer test + results | 3–4 weeks |
Waiting period after titer | 90–180 days |
Export & import permits | 2–4 weeks |
Travel and quarantine (if any) | 10 days or more |
In Bali, it’s not uncommon for love stories to begin with a street dog at sunset or a kitten who won’t leave your porch. These bonds are spontaneous, deep, and real. So when life takes you elsewhere, bringing them along is not just a choice—it’s a promise.
With patience, care, and the right guidance, you can ensure your pet travels safely and legally to join you—whether in Europe, North America, or Oceania.
Need Help?
Whether you’re at the beginning of your relocation journey or gathering final documents, we recommend:
- Speaking with a certified veterinarian in Bali
- Contacting your destination country’s import authority
- Consulting with a pet relocation expert
Bringing your pet home may take time, but it’s worth every step.
