How does one export animals from Thailand? Let's say your employer, a big international company, is transferring you from its office in Bangkok to Los Angeles. What do you do about your dog here in Thailand?
The obvious answer is to take the dog with you. Let's talk about how this is done. First, you have to think about two countries, Thailand, the exporting country, and the country where you're taking your pet, the importing country.
The first thing you have to do is find out the requirements of the importing country. The reason for this is that it may need official certificates from Thailand to let the animal in. Get a list of these.
The importing country may have a website about importing animals with a list of requirements.
If you can't find a website, you may have to ask a friend or colleague in the country to contact the local authorities and send you the requirements.
Exporting an animal from Thailand is governed by ministerial regulation BE 2544 (2001) issued under the Animal Epidemic Act BE 2499 (1956).
Once you know the requirements of the importing country you are ready to approach the Thai authorities.
At least two weeks before the animal is scheduled to leave Thailand you must go to International Animal Quarantine Station (AQS) at the port of exit. For Suvarnabhumi airport the address of this station is 1st Floor, CE-1 Building, Free Zone, Suvarnabhumi International Airport.
First, you have to submit an application, form Ror 1/1, to export a live animal from Thailand. In practice, the signature and stamp of a licensed vet in Thailand on this form is required for it to be acceptable to the AQS.
You must also submit a copy of your passport or Thai ID card. If you are doing this through a representative, you must attach a letter appointing the representative along with copies of the representative's passport or Thai ID card. Finally, you must give them the full name and address of the consignee at the port of destination. These documents can be submitted by post to the address above, or by email to qsapbkk@dld.go.th.
The documents required by the importing company will be determined by this country and you should check with the authorities there.
The AQS is authorised to issue a health certificate for the animal based on the requirements of the importing country. For example, the importing country might require a health certificate to the effect that the animal has been properly inoculated against rabies in Thailand. The AQS may require documentation from a vet in Thailand and issue such a health certificate. The importing country may also require specific examinations or tests from the AQS, which the AQS will do, after charging you for these services.
Before the animal leaves, the AQS must issue an export permit, form Ror 9. You must keep one set of copies of this so the animal can be passed through customs in the import country. A copy must also be attached to the container in which the animal travels.
James Finch of Chavalit Finch and Partners
(finch@chavalitfinchlaw.com) and Nilobon Tangprasit of
Siam City Law Offices Ltd (nilobon@siamcitylaw.com).
Researchers: Arnon Rungthanakarn and Sitra Horsinchai.
For more information visit www.chavalitfinchlaw.com.
Questions? Contact us at the email addresses above.