Moving to Hawaii with Pets

What you need to know about moving cats and dogs to Hawaii

Any long-distance move requires careful planning, but moving to Hawaii comes with some extra steps. Especially if you’re bringing along a family pet. 

Let’s review what’s required to import cats and dogs to Hawaii.

Avoid the Hawaii animal quarantine when moving to the state

Hawaii is strict about importing animals because it is rabies-free and wants to remain so. Pets are subject to quarantine upon arrival unless owners meet certain vaccination and health requirements.

Since rabies is usually fatal for pets and can be transmitted to people, Hawaii requires rabies vaccination for all animals. Moving a pet to the islands isn’t as simple as within the continental U.S., but with preparation, you can avoid a long quarantine.

1. Confirm a working microchip (or have one implanted)

The Hawaiian government requires electronic microchips for all imported cats and dogs. If your pet already has a chip, have the vet’s office scan it to confirm the number. If your pet needs a chip implanted, contact your veterinarian for additional information about the process and costs involved.

Pets must have a chip in place to properly document the blood test and vaccinations required to enter Hawaii.

2. Provide proof of two Rabies vaccinations

Pets must have two current rabies vaccinations, no less than 30 days apart, with the most recent vaccine at least 30 days before the pet arrives in Hawaii. The original certificates must be signed in ink by a licensed veterinarian. Copies are not accepted.

Note: Kittens and puppies must be at least 6 months old to complete both vaccine doses. Importing younger animals is possible but will result in a 120-day quarantine.

3. Pass the FAVN blood test

Your vet must submit a blood sample from your pet to an approved lab for a FAVN (Fluorescent Antibody Serum Neutralization) rabies test, designed to show rabies antibodies. Currently, Auburn University (AU), Kansas State University (KSU) and the DOD Food Analysis and Diagnostic Laboratory in Texas (DOD) are the approved labs for the test.

FAVN results are available through your vet’s office or the Animal Quarantine Microchip Search.
After your pet receives passing FAVN test results, there is a mandatory waiting period of at least 30 days and no more than 3 years before it can arrive in Hawaii.

4. Complete paperwork and payment

Hawaii’s Animal Quarantine Station (AQS) requires all pet owners to complete and submit the following: Dog & Cat Import Form AQS-279, two rabies vaccination certificates, FAVN test results and payment of import fees ($185 per pet for airport release or $244 for 5-day or less).

The ideal time to submit the paperwork is at least 30 days in advance and no less than 10 days before the animal’s arrival. You’ll also need a pet health certificate (see below).

5. Submit an original pet health certificate

All pets entering Hawaii must have a USDA-endorsed health certificate completed by a veterinarian no more than 14 days before arrival. The certificate should include the vet’s signature in ink, vaccination and booster information, the animal's distinctive features and proof of a long-lasting tick treatment.

If you plan to use expedited shipping for import paperwork, you can submit the original certificate then or provide the document when clearing your pet at the airport. Photocopies of the certificate are not accepted.

Note: Get an extra copy of the certificate for the airline with an original signature.

Read more about preparing pets for a move.

Types of animal release upon arrival in Hawaii

There are three processes for retrieving your pet upon arrival in Hawaii. Here’s how they work:

Direct Airport Release

If your cat or dog qualifies (all 5 steps from above), they can leave the airport with you once they pass an entry inspection without having to quarantine. Direct Airport Release (DAR) is not only the preferred option for most pet parents, but it’s also the cheapest (more about fees later).

Hawaii’s Department of Agriculture provides detailed checklists based on your arrival airport:

• Checklist 1 for arrival in Honolulu
• Checklist 2 for arrival in Kona, Kahului or Lihue. (Also known as the Neighbor Island Inspection Checklist)

5-day-or-less program 

This program helps pets whose owners can’t pick them up at the airport due to separate travel dates or if they miss the paperwork deadlines required for DAR (at least 10 days before the animal’s arrival). Learn more with these FAQs about the program.

120-day quarantine 

A lengthy quarantine is the only option when your pet doesn’t meet the requirements for DAR or the 5-day-or-less program. Quarantine is the least desirable option for most pet parents because it involves separation and limited visitation.

Here are some reasons your cat or dog may be subject to a more extended quarantine:

• The animal is too young for the rabies vaccine, or the proper vaccine paperwork is not available
• There are no FAVN blood test results
• The pet will enter the state before the 30-day mandatory waiting period has passed for the FAVN blood test
• The pet is disqualified from DAR or 5-day-or-less programs for another reason

Learn more about Hawaii’s Animal Quarantine Program.

How much it costs to move a cat or dog to Hawaii

Moving a dog or cat to Hawaii can be expensive. Below are examples of the costs for importing an animal into the state. These fees can vary and are subject to change at any time.

Veterinarian costs
 

Estimated travel and administrative expenses
 

Hawaii Animal Industry Division fees 

Their webpage lists the following fees (as of September 2025): 

Note: For a quicker release, pay in advance with a cashier’s check or money order (no personal checks are accepted). You can also pay upon arrival at the Hawaii airport with cash, a traveler’s check or a VISA® or MasterCard®. These are individual prices per dog or cat, and full payment is required before your pet will be released. Fees are subject to change at any time.

FAQs about moving pets to Hawaii

Are there breed restrictions?

According to the Hawaiian government animal quarantine information page, “non-domestic dogs, cats, and hybrids such as wolf, wolf cross, Dingo, Bengal, Savannah, etc. are prohibited under Plant Quarantine Branch Laws.”

Note: Breeds accustomed to colder climates (like Huskies) might not fare well in Hawaii's tropical environment. Consult your vet for more information about your pet’s breed and adaptability to different climates.

Are exotic pets allowed to move to Hawaii?

Many common exotic pets, like aquarium fish and chinchillas, are allowed. However, mammals like ferrets, gerbils and hamsters, and reptiles like lizards, snakes and snapping turtles are prohibited from entering the state.

Learn more about allowed and restricted species on Hawaii’s Plant Industry Division website.

What happens to my pet when they arrive at the airport?

Airport personnel will take pets to the Airport Animal Quarantine Holding Facility (AAQHF) for inspection. Each animal will have a private indoor kennel and fresh water (food is provided at your request).  

Animals arriving on flights after 3:30 p.m. must spend the night at the airport facility. They will either be ready for release the next morning or taken to the Animal Quarantine Station (for animals not qualified for DAR).

Can I visit my quarantined pet?

Yes. Each quarantine facility will have posted visiting hours during which you can see your pet and attend to any grooming needs.

Read more FAQs about Hawaii’s animal quarantine.

Ready to move with your pets to Hawaii?

Now that you have planned the move for your furry family members, don’t forget to contact an experienced moving service to transport your personal belongings, like U-Pack®.

U-Pack has nearly 30 years of experience in long-distance moves, including many to Hawaii. Our flexible options are affordable and convenient. Call 844-362-5303844-594-3077 to speak to a moving consultant or start your quote request online.