A common situation: you've had two RNATT blood tests done over the course of the process - perhaps because a visa took longer than expected - but you didn't get a declaration done after the first one. Do you need to start the 180-day wait again?
The good news, based on consistent real-world experience from agents and pet owners: you can have the RNATT declaration completed retrospectively for both tests. You don't need to have obtained the declaration immediately after each test result arrived. A third OV66-authorised vet can review both lab reports and complete declarations for each, and DAFF has accepted this in practice.
The 180-day wait is anchored to the blood draw date - specifically the date the lab received the sample. If your most recent passing test result is still within its 12-month validity window and your rabies vaccination has remained current throughout, the process is intact.
The specific situation this applies to
You have two RNATT results. You didn't get a declaration for the first one before doing the second. DAFF has asked for declarations for both. The answer is: get both declarations completed now - retrospectively is fine - attach both to your permit application along with both lab reports, and proceed.
What you do need to watch
- The vet completing the RNATT declaration must be OV66-authorised and must be different from the vet who drew the blood.
- Both lab reports must show: blood sampling date, name of the vet who collected blood, and clinic address. Missing any of these will cause DAFF to reject the report.
- Your rabies vaccination must not have lapsed at any point between the first blood draw and now.
If you're in this situation and uncertain, email imports@aff.gov.au with your specific details before proceeding.