How long does the DAFF import permit take to process?

Most import permits are issued within 20-40 business days, which is 4-8 weeks. In some cases involving complex or incomplete applications, it can take up to 123 business days. A well-prepared application with complete documentation is processed faster.

When should I apply for the DAFF import permit?

Apply as soon as you have both the RNATT laboratory report and the endorsed RNATT declaration in hand. Do not wait until the end of the 180-day period. The permit and the 180-day wait often run in parallel, and you want the permit ready before your travel window opens.

What documents do I need for the DAFF import permit application?

You need the RNATT laboratory report issued by the testing laboratory, the endorsed RNATT declaration from the official government veterinarian, and your pet's identity verification confirmation if applicable. Apply through the BICON system at bicon.agriculture.gov.au.

What happens after my import permit is approved?

Book your quarantine slot at Mickleham the same day the permit arrives. The permit specifies the exact conditions your pet must meet. Share it immediately with your vet and transport agent. The permit has an expiry date tied to your RNATT result validity.

How long does the DAFF import permit take?

Person reviewing DAFF import permit paperwork for a pet with a dog resting beside them

The import permit is a step most people underestimate. Here's the honest timeline and what affects how long yours takes.

The official DAFF timeline

DAFF states that most import permits are issued within 20–40 business days — that's 4–8 weeks. In some cases, particularly where documentation is complex or incomplete, it can take up to 123 business days. That's nearly six months.

The 123-day figure is not common for straightforward Group 3 pet applications, but it's real. The practical range for a well-prepared application is 4–8 weeks.

What affects processing time

Completeness of the application — missing or unclear documents cause the application to go on hold, adding weeks
Accuracy of the RNATT documentation — microchip number discrepancies between the lab report and the declaration are the most common cause of delays. Completing identity verification correctly beforehand reduces issues
Application volume — DAFF processes applications in the order they're received
Complexity — non-standard situations take longer

When to apply

Apply as soon as you have both the RNATT laboratory report and the endorsed RNATT declaration in hand. Don't wait until the 180-day period is nearly complete — you want the permit in hand with enough time to book quarantine and arrange travel. For a breakdown of what quarantine will cost, read Mickleham quarantine fees.

Important

A common mistake is waiting too long to apply and then scrambling to get a quarantine slot after the permit arrives. The permit and the quarantine booking are separate systems. Book quarantine the same day the permit arrives.

What to do while you wait

The 180-day waiting period and the permit application often run in parallel. While your permit is being processed, complete all the pre-departure steps that can be done in advance — arrange your agent, confirm your flight routing, check your parasite treatment timing windows. Don't treat the permit wait as downtime.

Stay on track during the wait

Bringbabka shows you exactly which steps to complete while your permit is processing so you don't waste time.

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What the permit contains

The import permit is a document that specifies the exact conditions your pet must meet before export. Read it carefully — the conditions on the permit are legally binding and take precedence over any other source of information, including this one. Share it with your vet and your transport agent.

The permit is valid until your RNATT result expires — 12 months from the blood draw date. Your pet must arrive in Australia before the permit expires.

Regulations can change. Always verify directly with DAFF at agriculture.gov.au.