What Hawaii requires when a cat arrives — whoever you are arriving from. These rules hang off the arrival, not the trip type: a flight from Frankfurt and a flight from Los Angeles are treated the same here. Requirements can change — always confirm with the authority before you travel.
These requirements come on top of the country's — they can only tighten or add, never loosen.
A microchip is required.
⚠️ The source states the microchip requirement but refers to its own checklists for the technical details (chip type, scanner) — that detail level is not captured here.
Proof of two rabies vaccinations is required, and at least 30 days must pass between the most recent vaccination and arrival.
A passing rabies antibody test (FAVN) is mandatory, not merely recommended. At least 30 days must pass between the passing test and arrival.
Up to 120 days of quarantine on arrival unless every requirement of the "5 Day Or Less" program is met. Pets that qualify may be released directly at Honolulu (Daniel K. Inouye International) after inspection.
Paperwork must reach the Animal Quarantine Station in advance: one completed form per pet, no less than 10 days before arrival — otherwise the pet does not qualify for "5 Day Or Less" or airport release.
🗓️ Read at the state authority on 31/07/2026.
Source: https://dab.hawaii.gov/ai/aqs/animal-quarantine-information-page/
Arriving from Germany/the EU, the national entry requirements of USA apply on top. Arriving from another part of the same country means crossing no international border — then only the section above applies.
Not required by US authorities; however, nearly all airlines require a health certificate (veterinary certificate, often valid max. 10 days before departure). Please check with your airline.
No permit; no CDC form for cats
Not federally required (recommended)
Not federally required
Cats: no CDC minimum age; valid rabies vaccination (~12 weeks).
No
None
Not required
None
Standard
These apply on the ground in the destination country — to everyone, not as an entry condition — and depend on the breed and situation (e.g. public transport, listed breeds).
No federal breed bans
None (cat)
Cat must appear healthy; check destination-state rules; Official source: cdc.gov/importation
Authority: USDA APHIS (CDC-Hunderegel gilt nicht für Katzen)
🗓️ Read at the responsible authority on 20/07/2026.
Check your specific route & airlines →For informational purposes only. Regulations change frequently — verify with the relevant authorities before travel.