Zambia Pet Import Requirements

Rabies vaccination is required for pets entering ZAMBIA. However, there are no published guidelines specifying a waiting period after vaccination before entry. The Rabies vaccine must not be older than 1 year at the time of entry. Regarding the type of Rabies vaccine allowed, the specific type is not explicitly published in the regulations.

ZAMBIA has not published any specific test requirements for pets entering the country. Therefore, there are no tests that must be performed before entry, no timelines for when tests should be conducted, and no expiration periods for test results.

Pets that meet ZAMBIA's import permit requirements, including a valid Veterinary Health Certificate and Rabies vaccination certificate, will not be quarantined upon arrival. However, pets that do not meet these requirements will be quarantined for 14 days at the owner’s expense. There is no requirement for pets to quarantine at home before entry. Quarantine only applies upon arrival if import conditions are not fully met.

ZAMBIA has not published any breed-specific restrictions for pet importation. Additionally, there are no climate-related travel restrictions specified for pet travel into ZAMBIA.
Dry Season (May to August): This is the coolest and most favorable time for pet transport, with mild temperatures ranging from 15°C to 27°C (59°F to 81°F), making it ideal for stress-free travel.
Hot Dry Season (September to October): Temperatures can rise significantly during this period, reaching up to 35°C (95°F) or more. Pet transport during this time requires careful consideration to avoid heat stress, especially for brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds.
Rainy Season (November to April): While temperatures are moderate, ranging from 18°C to 30°C (64°F to 86°F)
 

Process for Pets Entering ZAMBIA:
1.    Entry Mode:

•  Pets can enter ZAMBIA as cargo. 

2.    Customs and State Veterinary Clearance:

• Mandatory for all pets upon arrival.
• Clearances must be performed by a licensed customs agent who will provide a detailed fee breakdown at the time of import.

3.    IATA Live Animal Regulations (LAR):

• Pets must be transported in containers that comply with IATA LAR standards, ensuring proper size, ventilation, and security for the pet.

4.    Entry Points:

• Pets typically enter ZAMBIA through LUN, the primary and best-equipped point of entry for live animals.

5.    Operating Hours:

• Customs and State Veterinary offices do not operate 24/7, they need advance notice of intended arrival of pets for proper planning.

6.    Weekend Arrivals:

• Pets arriving on weekends will still be cleared if state vet and customs and authorities have been given advance notice.

7.    Customs Requirements:
Documents Required:

• Veterinary Import Permit
•  Veterinary Health Certificate (issued within 48 hours of departure and endorsed by the competent authority)
• Rabies vaccination certificate
•  IATA-compliant crate details
• A licensed customs agent must handle the clearance process.

8.    Fees, Taxes, and Costs:

• Fees for live animal imports vary and will be provided by the licensed customs agent during the clearance process. These typically include import duties, vet inspection fees, and handling charges.

9.    Transit Station/Crates During Clearance:

• The destination airport does not have a dedicated transit station for live animals. Pets remain in their crates while waiting for Customs and State Veterinary clearance.

10.    Best Practices for Entry:

• Ensure all documentation and crate requirements are in order before departure.
• Work with a licensed customs agent to streamline the clearance process.
• Use LUN Airport as the preferred entry point due to its established procedures for live animal imports.