Relocating your pup from the USA to Vietnam might feel overwhelming – paperwork, vaccines, import permits, flight bookings, crates… the list goes on. But with the right plan (and a few insider tips), it can be smooth and stress-free. Think of this guide as a friend walking you through each step.

Table of Contents

Step 1: Microchip & Vaccinations

Microchip: We recommend your pet to have an ISO 11784/11785-compliant, 15-digit microchip. Not all vets in the USA carry these so always double-check before implanting. If you do not have an ISO microchip you may be required to provide a microchip reader to read the microchip.
Rabies vaccine: Required at least 30 days before travel, but no more than 12 months prior.
Core vaccines: Distemper, parvovirus, hepatitis, parainfluenza, and leptospirosis.

Pro tip: Start vaccines at least 6 months in advance. If there’s a mistake (wrong type, missing sticker), you’ll still have time to fix it.

Step 2: Health Certificates & USDA Endorsement

Health certificate: Only a USDA-accredited vet can issue the international certificate (APHIS Form 7001). Find one here.
USDA APHIS endorsement: Must be stamped within 07 days of departure. Booking too early is a common mistake.

Insider tip: Keep your vet appointment and USDA endorsement appointment back-to-back to save time.

Step 3: Vietnam Import Permit

Issued by the Department of Animal Health in Vietnam. Processing usually takes 7-14 business days.
Documents required: microchip info, vaccination records, health certificate copy, owner’s passport, and flight details.
Reality check: Bring two copies of everything – officers sometimes keep one.

Friendly tip: Work with a relocation company (like us!) if you don’t have a local contact in Vietnam. It makes the process much faster.

Step 4: Booking Flights & Travel Crate

Airlines that are pet-friendly on USA – Vietnam routes:

Korean Air (via Incheon) – reliable and pet-friendly.
Singapore Airlines – excellent handling, but pets usually travel as cargo.
Qatar Airways – one of the world’s best reputations for pet safety.
Vietnam Airlines – limited routes from the USA, but possible.

Avoid budget airlines – most don’t handle live animals internationally.

Crate: Must be IATA compliant crate. Trusted brands include Petmate Sky Kennel and VariKennel.

Pro move: Airlines can reject non-compliant crates, even if new. Don’t risk it.

Training advice: Start crate training 2-3 months before travel. Add a favorite toy or blanket to reduce stress.

Step 5: Arrival in Vietnam

Customs inspection: Your pup will go through a quick check by an airport vet. If all paperwork is correct, quarantine is usually waived.
Import permit copy: Officers may ask for the permit again at customs. Keep an extra in hand luggage.

Insider tip: Sometimes luggage and pet cargo clear separately – assign one family member to stay with your dog while the other handles luggage.

Quick Checklist for USA → Vietnam Dog Relocation

For convenience, here’s that checklist right here as well:

ISO-compliant microchip (15-digit) – implanted and registered.
Rabies vaccine (administered at least 30 days before travel and within 12 months).
Core vaccines (distemper, parvovirus, hepatitis, parainfluenza, leptospirosis).
International Health Certificate (APHIS Form 7001) from a USDA-accredited vet.
USDA APHIS endorsement of the health certificate.
Vietnam import permit from the Department of Animal Health.
IATA-approved travel crate and completed crate training (start 2–3 months prior).
Pet-friendly flight booked (prefer minimal layovers and direct routes when possible).

Printed copies of all documents (keep duplicates in hand luggage).

Common Questions We Hear (Q&A)

Don’t miss the checklist: A clear, printable checklist is included above – use it to mark off each step as you prepare.

How early should I start planning?

At least 6 months in advance. That way, if paperwork or vaccines need correction, you’ll have time.

Does my vet need special approval?

Yes – only USDA-accredited vets can issue the health certificate for international travel.

Will my dog be quarantined in Vietnam?

Usually no, as long as documents are correct. Quarantine applies mainly if vaccines are missing or the microchip is unreadable.

Can my dog fly in-cabin?

On most long-haul flights, medium and large dogs must go in the hold. Small dogs under airline weight limits may be allowed in-cabin with select airlines.

Wrapping It Up

Bringing your dog from the USA to Vietnam takes planning, but it doesn’t have to be a nightmare. With the right vaccines, paperwork, and a pet-friendly airline, the journey can be safe and smooth.

At Pet Adventures, we’ve guided thousands of families through this exact process. As the only IATA & IPATA-accredited pet relocation experts in Southeast Asia, we know the fine details that can make or break a journey.