Country Compliance
British Indian Ocean Territory Pet Import Requirements
Official veterinary regulations, microchip standards, rabies rules, and breed restrictions for entering British Indian Ocean Territory.
1. Microchip & Identification
To enter the British Virgin Islands, your pet must first be microchipped with an ISO 11784/11785 compliant pet microchip that is a 15 digit and non-encrypted.
2. Rabies Vaccination
It is a good idea when traveling by sea to have a current rabies vaccination.
The first rabies vaccination must occur after 3 months of age and the second vaccination must occur at least 6 months after the first one. Pets must enter the British Virgin Islands within 12 months of the second shot.
3. Titre Tests & Bloodwork
When traveling by sea it is a good idea to have a current FAVN test as many islands require this and especially if you run into mechanical problems that require a stop off with your yacht.
Your pet will need a rabies titer test no sooner than 30 days after the second rabies vaccination. Samples must be processed at approved laboratories.
4. Quarantine Requirements
All pets must always remain on the vessel, without exception.
Only applicable if necessary documentation incorrect or absent.
5. Breed Restrictions
No pet may enter the island and must always remain on the yacht.
No published list of banned breeds.
Done-for-You Service
Breed rules in British Indian Ocean Territory can mean a border denial.
Our IPATA-certified team verifies your specific breed against British Indian Ocean Territory's current import rules and manages every document — so you arrive cleared, not turned away.
Get a British Indian Ocean Territory Relocation Quote6. Customs & Import Rules
For military PCS air arrival - Diego Garcia is subject to British Customs and Immigration Controls.
All vessels are requested to report the following to the Visiting Vessels Control Officer
(VVCO) / BIOT Patrol Vessel (BPV):
Vessels can use email or satellite enabled phones for text or voice messages to send the position reports.
provided on the Outer Islands Permit Request form. You will be asked to explain any discrepancies.
The Veterinary Division must be given at least 24 hours notice of confirmed arrival date, time, airline/vessel and port of entry. This will facilitate unnecessary delays, and avoid detention of animal(s) for Veterinary clearance at port of entry.
All domestic dogs and cats must be free of evidence of disease communicable to humans when examined at the entry airport. If your dog or cat is not in apparent good health, further examination by a licensed veterinarian may be required at your expense.
The Veterinary Division must be given at least 24 hrs notice of confirmed arrival date, time, airline/vessel and port of entry. This will facilitate unnecessary delays, and avoid detention of animal(s) for Veterinary clearance at port of entry.
There is a fee of ten (US$10.00) dollars for each animal on the permit.
Animal(s) must be kept in confinement (carrier) until granted entry into the country. Failure to do so can cause entry of animal(s) being denied.
Common Questions
British Indian Ocean Territory pet travel — frequently asked
Are there breed restrictions for pets entering British Indian Ocean Territory?
Yes, British Indian Ocean Territory enforces breed restrictions for incoming pets. Review the Breed Restrictions section on this page for the specific breeds affected, or contact our team for a breed-specific compliance assessment.
Does British Indian Ocean Territory require quarantine for dogs and cats?
Yes, quarantine requirements apply for pets entering British Indian Ocean Territory. See the Quarantine Requirements section for holding periods, conditions, and approved facilities.
What documents do I need to bring my pet to British Indian Ocean Territory?
Pets entering British Indian Ocean Territory typically require an ISO 11784/11785-compliant microchip, a valid rabies vaccination, and a health certificate from an accredited veterinarian, plus a rabies titre (antibody) test. Requirements vary by origin country — check each section above for the most current rules.
Popular Airlines
Airlines flying pets to British Indian Ocean Territory
Each airline has its own breed restrictions, weight limits, and cargo embargo windows. Check policies before you book.
