How much does it cost to move a dog from the US to Australia?

The total cost typically ranges from USD $4,000 to $10,000 depending on your dog's size, whether you use a transport agent, and how quarantine goes. The biggest single cost is usually the cargo flight, which is calculated by crate dimensions and varies significantly by dog size.

What government fees are involved in importing a dog to Australia?

Government fees include the DAFF import permit (approximately AUD $603 as of 2026), the Mickleham quarantine reservation (AUD $269), the importation charge (AUD $1,078), and accommodation (AUD $530 for 10 days). These are fixed Australian government charges that apply regardless of dog size.

Do I need a transport agent to move my dog from the US to Australia?

For US users, using a transport agent is optional but strongly recommended. You can book Qantas Freight directly from Los Angeles by emailing qffreightUSA@qantas.com.au. Brachycephalic breeds must go through a specialist agent regardless of anything else.

How far in advance should I start planning to move my dog to Australia?

Start at least 7-8 months before your planned departure date. The RNATT blood test triggers a mandatory 180-day waiting period. Add time for the blood test results (2-4 weeks), the RNATT declaration, and the import permit application (4-8 weeks). Starting late is the most common and most costly mistake.

How much does it cost to import a dog to Australia from the US?

A dog in an IATA-approved travel crate at an airport cargo facility ready for international travel

The honest answer: more than most people expect. Here's a complete breakdown so you can budget properly.

The honest total

A full US-to-Australia dog import typically costs between USD $4,000 and $10,000 depending on your dog's size, whether you use a full-service agent, and how the quarantine goes. The range is wide because the biggest variable, flight cost, depends heavily on crate size, which depends on your dog's size.

Cost by category

Veterinary fees

Across the whole process you'll have multiple vet visits: rabies vaccination, identity checks (two separate USDA vets), RNATT blood draw, Leishmania test, Brucella test (if intact), Leptospira vaccination or test, CIV vaccination, two parasite treatment visits, final health exam. Budget USD $500-1,500 depending on your location and vet rates.

RNATT laboratory fee

Kansas State University or Auburn University. Approximately USD $150-300 per test.

USDA endorsement fees

USDA charges per endorsement submitted through VEHCS. For a standard move with identity verification, there are five endorsements required. Fees are reviewed periodically, so check the current USDA APHIS fee schedule. Budget approximately USD $150-300 total.

DAFF import permit

Approximately AUD $370 for a standard single-animal Group 3 application. Fees are reviewed periodically, so confirm at the DAFF website before applying.

Quarantine at Mickleham

Approximately AUD $1,877 for a 10-day stay (with identity verification). AUD $3,000+ for a 30-day stay. Additional charges if veterinary treatment is required during the stay.

QANTAS Freight

The main direct cargo route from the US is QANTAS Freight from Los Angeles. Cost varies significantly by crate size (dimensional weight). Small dogs: USD $1,000-2,500. Large dogs: USD $3,000-6,000+. Get a quote from your agent early. This is often the biggest single cost.

Agent fee

Full-service pet transport agent: USD $1,500-4,000 depending on scope of service. Some agents include the QANTAS freight booking in their fee, others charge it separately. Clarify exactly what is included before engaging.

Bringbabka

USD $29. One-time.

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The most common budgeting mistake

Most people research the quarantine cost and the flight cost and think they have a number. They forget that the vet costs accumulate across 7+ months of visits, and that USDA endorsement fees and the import permit add up. Build in a 15-20% buffer on whatever number you land on.

For a broader look at all the costs involved, read the full cost guide.

Regulations and fees change. Always verify current costs directly with DAFF, USDA, and your chosen laboratory before budgeting.