Rules and Regulations for Importing Animals into Turkey

The important notes which you have to know when you are planning to bring your pet in Turkey, you have to understand the regulations and rules to be informed to avoid any fines or other unwanted situations during international relocation.

According to Turkish law every one who is entering the country is allowed to bring two domestic pets free from charge. If the number of animals exceeds this established norm, a duty must be paid for the extra pets. An alternative option is to register the animals as accompanying travelers.

The following types of animals are allowed to be imported into Turkey:

• * Domestic pets (dogs, cats, rodents)

• * Some birds

• * Aquarium fish (not exceeding 10 pieces)

In Turkey, the regulations for the transport of animals prohibit the importation of:

• Dogs of dangerous breeds – Bull Terrier, Spanish Mastiff, Rottweiler, American Staffordshire Terrier.

• Puppies and kittens under 10 weeks old.

• Pregnant animals.

• Representatives of wildlife under the threat of extinction.

What should be taken care of before the trip?

Before arranging your trip to Turkey, it is crucial to ensure that your pet is properly prepared and meets all local regulations regarding animal transport. To avoid any potential issues or delays, make sure to:

1. Vaccination pet: It is essential to vaccinate the pet, and all vaccines have to be finished at least 15 days before departure.

2. Microchip your pet: this is a very simple procedure that involves inserting a small chip under your pet's skin, which contains a unique code that can be scanned and checked for pet safety.

3. Make sure to keep a detailed record of your pet's vaccinations, blood tests, and deworming treatments in their veterinary passport to present at the port of entry in Turkey.

Documents required for entering animals into Turkey:

International veterinary passport containing detailed information about the pet: photo, blood test results, vaccination details, microchipping information, deworming, and administered medications.

Veterinary certificate (Form No. 1) issued by an accredited specialist. It must confirm that the pet has undergone a pre-travel examination and is in good health. The certificate is valid for 5 days from the date of issue from the clinic.

Both the veterinary passport and the certificate will be needed not only when leaving the country but also when re-entering.

The rules for importing animals into Turkey do not require mandatory pet insurance. The issue of insurance is at the discretion of the pet owner.

The list of important documents may change according to the country's rules and regulations, so that is why it is important to contact veterinary services and the chosen airline in advance to obtain updated information.

Transporting animals by plane to Turkey: transportation rules

Rules for transporting domestic pets may vary among different airlines. Therefore, when booking a flight, contact airline representatives and inquire whether the transportation rules allow the carriage of animals in the aircraft cabin. This also applies to passengers who plan to transit animals through Turkey.

The pet must have a separate ticket for the trip. Small cats and dogs are often allowed to be transported in the aircraft cabin, provided certain conditions are met:

The animal is small in size.

The weight of a pet does not have to be more than 10 kg.

A comfortable and safe carrier with ventilation.

Pre-booked space for the pet.

Possession of necessary documents.

Turkish Airlines typically treats the transportation of animals in the cabin as excess baggage, which goes against established norms. The cost of transporting domestic pets is determined by factors such as the animal's size, weight, transportation method, and the airline's policies.

When transporting a guide dog accompanying a passenger with limited mobility, the dog wears a muzzle and is seated next to the owner in the cabin.

Turkish Airlines may refuse to transport a passenger's pet if they believe the animal is unwell, the pet carrier does not meet size requirements, or the temperature of the cargo hold is not suitable for the specific type of mammal.