🐾 Ready, Pet, Go! The Ultimate 2026 Guide to Stress-Free Pet Travel in the PH

Step 1: Prerequisites (The "Pre-Travel" Check)

Anti-Rabies Vaccine: Must be administered at least 2 weeks before travel, but not more than 1 year old.
Vaccination Card: Prepare clear images of the Pet Information page and the Latest Vaccination page.

Step 2: Obtain Veterinary Health Certificate (VHC) for a fee

This is a same-day process. You can get this from:

A. LGU City Vet: (e.g., Quezon City Vet fee is ₱50 per pet).
B. Private Clinic: Must be signed by a licensed Vet with their PTR and TIN clearly shown.

Validity: The VHC is valid for only 3 days upon requesting shipping permit from BAI. Tip: To ensure the 3-day validity doesn't lapse, file for your shipping permit the same day you get your VHC.

Step 3: Online Shipping Permit Request (Free-of-Charge)

Register as a "one-time client" at nvqsd.bai.gov.ph.

Application Guide: (refer to the link above for the full details)

Category: Live | Purpose: Pet for companionship | Source: Local.
Origin & Destination: Fill in sender and receiver details (Name and Contact No.).

Transportation:

If riding a Ferry: Select Water > RO-RO and type "by water."
If by Land/Air: Fill in the respective sections as applicable.

Shipping Item: Select Dog/Cat, choose the breed, and set Quantity to 1 "Hd/s."
Livestock Info: Upload a clear, full-body photo of your pet. Add distinguishing marks in "Remarks." if any.

Document Upload:

(1) Pet Info page, 
(2) Latest Vaxx page, and 
(3) VHC (include the VHC control/document number).

Important Timelines & Reminders

Submission: Apply BAI shipping permit at least 1 week before travel to allow for potential resubmissions.

Permit Validity: The BAI Shipping Permit is valid for 5–7 days from your travel date. This will serve as your final document for pet travel once obtained. But better to bring other related documents on the day of travel. Secure 2-3 photo copies, in case.

Approval: BAI processing is 24/7. If travelling on peak season or holidays, expect some delays. For urgent follow-ups, contact the VQS-North Harbor (if riding a Ferry) or VQS-NAIA (if travelling by Plane). If travelling by Land only, please coordinate with your designated regional office.

Return Trip: Port officials at your destination will issue the return documents on the day of your travel. You may inquire upon arrival to your destination for familiarity.

Final Tips for Departure
Arrival: Be at the port 1–2 hours early for check-in and document verification.
Equipment: Responsible owners must bring a leash, muzzle, wearing diaper and a secure pet carrier or cage.

Pro-Tip for Ferry Travel:

When booking your tickets, ensure you select Open-Air or Economy seats (such as RoPax for Montenegro or Economy for Island Water). Most shipping companies prohibit pets in air-conditioned facilities. The best part? On these decks, pets usually travel for free!