REGULATIONS FOR PETS ABOARD BOATS ENTERING SOUTH AFRICA

Prior to 2021 the regulations pertaining to pets aboard boats did not appear to exist in writing and accordingly OSASA sought clarification from the South African Veterinary Service. See attached letter from the Ministry of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development dated 11 October 2021. Download PDF Letter. Local officials might not be well-versed in the regulations, so it could be beneficial to have the PDF available to share with them.

 

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In summary, there are two main scenarios regarding pets aboard boats:

Pets on Boats Being Imported to South Africa 
In this context, “imported” refers to pets being brought in with the intention of permanently residing in South Africa (RSA). The regulations are clear: pets must be placed in a South African quarantine facility, of which there are only two available. One is located in Kempton Park, adjacent to Oliver Tambo Airport in Johannesburg, and the other is at Cape Town International Airport. If a pet is not flown in and arrives at a Port of Entry other than Cape Town, it must be declared upon entry. The pet must remain aboard and in quarantine while the boat is sailed to Cape Town, after which it will be transferred to the State Veterinary facility.

Pets on Boats in Transit  
In this case, “in transit” means that the pets reside aboard the boat but are scheduled to leave South Africa on the same vessel. Pets should be declared upon arrival but, once cleared, must remain on the boat at all times and should not go ashore unless on a leash.

In both scenarios, pets must be microchipped, fully vaccinated, and possess all necessary documentation and health certificates, including your pet passport, should you have one.