Travelling with Pets: Entry Requirements and Pet-Friendly Places

Sanya combines tropical island charm with a welcoming attitude towards pets. To help you and your furry companion travel safely and smoothly and enjoy your holiday together, here is a guide to quarantine requirements and local pet travel considerations.

1. Bringing Pets into China

Under official China Customs regulations, each arriving traveller may bring only one dog or cat. Travellers with pets must use the red declaration channel and prepare the following documents and identification according to the pet’s place of origin.

Quarantine-free entry from designated countries and regions: Pets arriving from designated countries and regions, including New Zealand, Australia, the United Kingdom, Japan, Singapore, Hong Kong, China, and Macao, China, must have:

• An original official quarantine certificate and a valid rabies vaccination certificate.
• A microchip that meets international standards.
• Health examination results issued by the competent authority in the place of export within 14 days before arrival.

Quarantine-free entry from non-designated countries and regions: In addition to the three requirements above, pets from non-designated countries and regions must have a rabies antibody test report issued by a laboratory recognised by China Customs. Pets that meet the requirements and pass the on-site quarantine inspection may enter without quarantine.

Pets without a valid microchip or a qualifying rabies antibody test report, or those exceeding the permitted number, are subject to 30 days of quarantine at a designated entry point with suitable facilities, such as airports in Beijing, Shanghai or Guangzhou. Do not make false declarations, conceal information or bring pets requiring quarantine through non-designated entry points. Failure to comply may result in return within a specified period, destruction of the animal or legal liability.

2. Taking Pets out of China

If you plan to take your pet to your destination country or region, begin preparations at least 3–10 working days in advance. Prepare your personal travel documents, a rabies vaccination certificate issued by an official veterinary institution, and any additional documents required by the destination, such as microchip information or an antibody test report.

Submit an application for export quarantine through the China International Trade Single Window or the “Internet + Customs” platform, and arrange an on-site clinical health examination. Once the pet passes inspection, Customs will issue an Animal Health Certificate.

3. Travelling with Pets in the Aircraft Cabin

Some domestic airlines in China offer pet-in-cabin services on routes to and from Sanya. Pets can remain in their carriers beside their owners throughout the flight, rather than travelling separately in the hold.

Pet places in the cabin are very limited. Contact the airline early to enquire and reserve a place, and prepare an Animal Quarantine Certificate issued by the veterinary authorities and an airline-compliant pet carrier.

4. Pet-Friendly Places in Sanya

Sanya offers a range of pet-friendly facilities and services to help you explore with your companion.

Pet-Friendly Accommodation: Many upscale resort hotels and premium guesthouses offer pet-friendly rooms, often with pet beds, feeding bowls, welcome packs or outdoor exercise areas. Some charge a fixed cleaning fee or impose weight limits. Inform the property that you will be bringing a pet before booking.

Outdoor Activities and Trips at Sea: Some yacht operators and surfing clubs welcome pets. When taking your pet out to sea or playing near water, always fit them with a properly designed pet life jacket.

Shopping and Public Spaces: Many large shopping centres and waterfront restaurants and cafés welcome pets. Some shopping centres offer pet stroller rentals at their customer service desks, while certain venues provide dedicated pet waiting areas, pet cream treats or meals.

Responsible Pet Ownership: Keep your pet on a leash in public places, on beaches and in shopping centres. Carry cleaning supplies and promptly clean up after your pet.