Moving to Taiwan with pets: Why Taiwan is a rising star for pet owners
Over the past decade, Taiwan has transformed into one of Asia’s most pet-welcoming destinations. From trendy cat cafes and dog-friendly hiking trails to high-end pet grooming salons, the country’s love for four-legged family members runs deep. Especially in cities like Taipei, Taichung, and Kaohsiung, you’ll find a growing number of public spaces, services, and businesses that welcome pets with open arms—and often with a treat.
If you’re considering moving to Taiwan with pets, this guide will walk you through the pet importation process and what you can expect as a pet parent in your new home.
And if you’re curious about the pawrent lifestyle in Taiwan, scroll further down in the guide.
Moving to Taiwan with pets: What you need to know
General entry requirements
All pets entering Taiwan must meet specific health, identification, and documentation standards. Taiwan will divide origin countries into two groups; Rabies-free countries, and countries (zones) not recognized as being from rabies.
The import requirements and importation process will differ between the two groups.
Pets coming from rabies-free countries
If your pet has spent the past 180 days s in one of the following countries prior to importation to Taiwan, it will be subject to import rules regarding pets from rabies-free countries; Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, Sweden, Iceland, Estonia, Japan, Norway (excluding the Svalbard islands), Hawaii state and Territory of Guam in the United States, or Singapore.
Your pet must be microchipped and vaccinated against rabies to be exempt from quarantine upon arrival into Taiwan. Read more about the rules regarding microchip and rabies vaccination below.
Banned and restricted breeds
Taiwan has announced that the American Pit Bull Terrier, American Pit Bull and the American Staffordshire Terrier are prohibited breeds for importation.
Bengal cats are not prohibited from importation, but they are subject to special considerations for import.
Minimum age
There is no minimum age specified for entry to Taiwan, however all pets need to have been vaccinated against rabies no earlier than at 90 days old.
Microchip identification
Your pet must have an ISO-compliant microchip (ISO 11784/11785) implanted, before on or the same day as its current vaccinations. It’s important that the microchip number is correctly noted, and matching on all accompanying documentation, including vaccination and blood test records.
Rabies vaccination
Taiwan requires pets to be vaccinated with an inactivated rabies vaccine between 30 days and 12 months before arrival. The rabies vaccination can be given at 90 days old at the earliest.
Rabies Antibody Titre Test (RNATT)
For pets coming from non-rabies-free countries, a Rabies Neutralizing Antibody Titre Test (RNATT) is required. Here’s how it works:
- The test must be done at an OIE-approved lab.
- A blood sample must be collected at least 90 days before arrival.
- The result must show antibody levels of 0.5 IU/mL or more.
💡 RNATT results are valid for up to two years.
Import permit
You’ll need to apply for an import permit at least 20 business days prior to your arrival to Taiwan. This applies to all pets regardless of their country of origin.
Veterinary health certificate
This must be issued within 7 days of departure by an official government veterinarian in your country. The certificate should include your pet’s:
- Microchip number
- Rabies vaccination and RNATT test information
- Clinical exam result confirming the pet is free from signs of disease
- Statement of no contact with rabies-infected animals
Quarantine: Who’s exempted?
Pets from rabies-free or controlled countries with an approved ISO microchip and current rabies vaccination do not need to undergo post-entry quarantine.
If you are coming from a rabies infected country, you can extend your waiting period after the blood sampling for RNATT to 180 days or more to avoid your pet going into quarantine upon arrival into Taiwan.
Everyone else should prepare for a stay at one of Taiwan’s quarantine facilities for at least 7 days. If your pet shows signs of illness upon arrival, quarantine may be extended for further observation.
If your pet is returning to Taiwan, it may also qualify for quarantine exemption.
Contact us to verify your pet’s status in regards to quarantine exemption.
CTA: Contact us now!
Pet life in Taiwan: What to expect after arrival
Pet-friendly living
In major cities, you’ll find a growing number of apartments and condos that accept pets—though it’s always best to clarify with landlords. Websites like MyRoomAbroad and Rent.TW list pet-friendly rentals for expats.
Getting around
Small pets are allowed on public transportation, including MRT systems, as long as they are in an enclosed carrier. Taiwan’s High-Speed Rail permits pets under 10 kg in carriers on certain trains.
In taxis or ride-share apps like LINE Taxi, you can often bring pets if you notify the driver in advance. Pet-friendly car rental services are also on the rise for weekend trips.
Pet culture and social norms
Taiwanese people are generally warm toward pets—especially in urban areas. It’s common to see dogs in strollers, dressed in clothes, or enjoying a pupuccino at a café. However, while cats and small dogs are widely accepted, larger dogs may face restrictions in some housing complexes or parks.
There’s also an active community of animal welfare advocates. Pet adoption is heavily promoted, and pet abandonment is taken seriously under Taiwan’s Animal Protection Act.
Where to go: Pet-friendly spots worth exploring
- Taipei Expo Park: With a dedicated pet area, it’s a favorite among local dog owners.
- Maokong Gondola (Taipei): Small pets are allowed in carriers on this beautiful cable car ride.
- Pet-friendly cafés: Places like Homey’s Café and Yaboo Café in Taipei allow pets indoors.
- Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Plaza: A vast open space where leashed dogs are welcome.
- Sun Moon Lake (Nantou County): Several walking paths and lakeside hotels are dog-friendly.
Pet services in Taiwan
You’ll be pleasantly surprised by the range of services available:
- Veterinary clinics: Many clinics in Taipei and Taichung offer English-speaking staff.
- Pet hotels: Luxury boarding services with live cams, play areas, and themed suites.
- Mobile grooming: Van-based grooming services that come to your doorstep.
- Pet boutiques: Designer outfits, organic treats, and strollers are widely sold.
- Pet daycare & training: Popular among working professionals and new pet parents.
Common challenges
While Taiwan is increasingly pet-friendly, you might run into a few hurdles:
- Pet housing rules: Especially for large breeds, always check building regulations.
- Weather: Summers are hot and humid—limit outdoor time and provide shade.
- Language barrier: While many pet services cater to expats, English isn’t always spoken, so apps like LINE and Google Translate come in handy.
Need help bringing your pet to Taiwan?
At Purrfect Pilots, we’re more than just pet movers—we’re pet parents too. We know how overwhelming it can be to navigate foreign rules and complex paperwork. That’s why we’re here to help with:
- Tailored pet travel consultation and documents verification
- Appointment scheduling for medical preparations
- Application and issuance of export and import documentation
- Post-entry quarantine reservations
- Pet flight bookings and comfort logistics
Whether you’re arriving from Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, Vietnam or Cambodia, we’ll tailor the relocation plan to your needs—and your pet’s comfort.
Ready to start planning your pet’s move to Taiwan?
