Entering Maldives for a short-stay
If you are travelling to the Maldives for the long term, you may be wondering if it would be possible to bring your pet with you. Find out the related procedures and regulations in this article.
If you are thinking about traveling to the Maldives with your pet, make sure to do some research before planning your trip. First, look into the effects of climate change on your pet: as the islands tend to be hot and humid throughout the year, not all pets will be able to thrive in this weather. Second, check with your potential employer (if you are working in hospitality) or your future landlord about the possibility of bringing and keeping your pet.
Important:
Note that dogs are not allowed in the Maldives. The following information focuses on the regulations of bringing your cat or other pets (birds, rodents, fish, etc.) into the country.
Pet microchip
While most countries require for a pet to have a microchip, this is not the case with the Maldives. You can thus bring your cat into the country without it having a microchip. However, it is highly recommended that you microchip your animal prior to bringing it into the country as it can serve as the only means of identification should anything happen during the transfer, or upon arrival.
Vaccinations
Your cat must have received a rabies vaccination at least 30 days prior to entering the country. Other vaccinations may also be required depending on your country of origin ' so it is recommended you check with the relevant authorities at home and in your destination. A rabies titer test is not required regardless of your country of origin.
Health certificate
Your pet must travel with a filled in health certificate issued by the relevant government authority in your country of origin. No import permit or other special documentation is required.
Transportation for your pet
When travelling by air, your pet will arrive at Male International Airport on Hulhule Island. Cats can travel in the cabin, as checked baggage or in the cargo compartment. Upon arrival, your pet will be examined by the veterinarian and must not present any symptoms of communicable diseases.
You can bring a variety of animals (except for dogs) into the Maldives: birds, reptiles, rodents, etc. However, it is always best to check with the relevant authorities regarding your specific pet as certain animals may fall into the endangered species category and, according to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), will require special permits.
Vet hospitals and pet care
There is no established veterinary service in the country, which can make thing quite complicated for you and your pet. While you may be able to find individual veterinary doctors, most of them typically specialise in farm animals rather than pets. There are, however, pet clinics in Sri Lanka that provide veterinary services for the Maldives.
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