Dogs Can Move, Too
From vaccinations and paperwork in Hong Kong to planning your crossing into Zhuhai via the Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macao Bridge, here is how to prepare for the move with your dog.
See the Zhuhai checklist ↓
Four steps before you go
Confirm your destination and port of entry
Decide which city and district you are moving to and ask the local authorities about dog registration and any breed or size restrictions. If you plan to use the Zhuhai Highway Port of the Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macao Bridge, confirm the available clearance lanes, service hours and any appointment requirements with Gongbei Customs. Check with your carrier that it accepts dogs. This guide covers pets accompanying travelers. Each person may bring one dog or cat per entry.
Check the microchip and rabies vaccination in Hong Kong
Ask a registered vet in Hong Kong to scan the microchip, confirm that it meets ISO standards and check that the rabies vaccination record is valid. Hong Kong’s Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) Animal Management Centres also offer dog licensing and related services. AFCD says dogs can be microchipped and vaccinated against rabies from three months of age. For puppies or a first rabies vaccination, check the timing with your vet and confirm the planned travel date with the port of entry.
Get a veterinary examination and AFCD endorsement
Ask a registered vet in Hong Kong to examine your dog and issue an animal health certificate within 14 days before entry into mainland China. The certificate must include the dog’s details, microchip number, date and location of implantation, and the examination date and findings. Submit the health certificate, rabies vaccination record, dog license, application form and declaration in person to AFCD. Endorsement takes one working day once the required documents and fee have been submitted.
Declare your dog and go through inspection in Zhuhai
Declare your dog to mainland customs, present the original certificates and allow officers to scan the microchip and carry out an on-site inspection. Hong Kong is a designated region. Dogs traveling from Hong Kong with valid documentation and a compliant microchip may qualify for exemption from isolation if they pass the on-site inspection. A rabies antibody test report is generally unnecessary for these cases. Customs determines clearance and any case-specific requirements.
Zhuhai border document checklist
- Original animal health certificate endorsed by AFCD (issued within 14 days before entry).
- Original, valid rabies vaccination certificate.
- Dog license and microchip record are worth bringing. AFCD also requires the dog license for endorsement. Check the microchip number on the certificate before departure.
- Valid travel documents for the person accompanying the dog. Follow the port’s instructions for the pet declaration.
If your dog requires isolation, use a port with designated quarantine facilities. Check your individual case and transport arrangements with Gongbei Customs before traveling via Zhuhai. A later return to Hong Kong is subject to Hong Kong’s separate import requirements.
Talk to Swallow about your move
When you get in touch, include your planned departure date, destination city and district, your dog’s breed and age, and whether you have a microchip and rabies vaccination record. Swallow can then advise on the route and paperwork. Available services and fees are confirmed individually.
WhatsApp Swallow · 5100 7655 ↗