Official Import Rules
Namibia requires an ISO microchip, current rabies vaccination (at least 30 days old), a government-endorsed veterinary health certificate issued within 10 days of travel, and an import permit from the Directorate of Veterinary Services. Internal and external parasite treatment within 14 days of travel is required. Arrival through Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH) Windhoek.
Free route planner
Turn these rules into your dog's step-by-step planCabin/cargo call, breed check, crate size and paperwork timing.Medical Roadmap
Microchip
ISO 11784/11785 microchip fitted before the rabies vaccination. The microchip number must match every certificate.
Rabies vaccination
Rabies vaccination must be valid before travel. Most routes require at least 21 days after a primary vaccination.
Health certificate or pet passport
Use an EU pet passport where accepted, or a government-endorsed animal health certificate for this route.
Rabies titer test
Build in the approved-lab antibody test and any mandatory waiting period before booking the flight.
Travel day
Carry originals, confirm airline pet acceptance, and keep the official authority page saved offline.
Breed & Public-Space Rules
No major national breed ban found
Still check airline policies, local rules, insurance requirements and any transit-country restrictions before booking.
Flying In: Cabin, Hold or Cargo
Cost Breakdown
Quarantine Information
None if documentation complete
City & Housing Notes
Windhoek is the main city with adequate infrastructure. Swakopmund has a small expat community. Namibia is sparsely populated with excellent wildlife areas. Pet culture exists mainly among the expat and farming communities.
Vets & Health After Arrival
Adequate vet care in Windhoek with several clinics. Outside the capital, vet services are very limited. The arid climate is generally healthy for dogs. Tick-borne diseases are a concern in rural areas — year-round prevention recommended.
Leaving Namibia With Your Dog
Exit requires a health certificate from a DVS-approved vet and an export permit. Processing takes 3–5 working days.
Videos & Route Walkthroughs
Use videos as lived-experience context, not as legal authority. Search for recent dog-owner route reports, airport collection walkthroughs, crate-loading examples and relocation-agent explainers, then verify every rule against the official source above.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Namibia good for dogs?
Yes for indoor/outdoor dogs in urban areas. The dry climate is healthy. Windhoek has adequate vet care. Rural areas are very remote with wildlife risks.
Are there wildlife risks for dogs?
Yes. Jackals, caracals, and large raptors pose risks in rural areas. Urban Windhoek is much safer. Keep dogs supervised.
Is vet care affordable?
Moderate. Windhoek vet costs are comparable to South Africa. Outside Windhoek, options are very limited.
Community Tips & Nearby Routes
Community reports are useful for practical details such as which cargo desk answers the phone, how long collection took, or whether a landlord asked for insurance. Treat them as tips, then verify rules with the authority and airline.