Export Live Animals to Hong Kong

Last Modified: February 27, 2025

Electronic Signature ACCEPTED; Digital Endorsement for SOME COMMODITIES ONLY

For Accredited Veterinarians: Electronic signature ACCEPTED

For APHIS VMO: Digital endorsement for SOME COMMODITIES ONLY

USDA-accredited veterinarians can electronically issue health certificates and use VEHCS (Veterinary Export Health Certification System) to submit them to USDA for endorsement. 

Digital endorsement varies by species—see requirements on this page for details. The health certificate either bears the original ink signature and embossed seal or digital signature/seal.

Summary of Requirements

For Hong Kong importation information, please go to Import of Animals and Birds.

For all health certificates submitted through VEHCS for shipments of U.S. origin animals and germplasm that are only transiting Hong Kong, select the Hong Kong (Transit) option from the “Country of Destination” drop down menu.

For animals and germplasm that are destined for export to Hong Kong, first you must first select Country Not Listed from “Country of Destination” drop down menu, then select Hong Kong from the full list of destination countries.

ALL health certificates for export of livestock, poultry, and birds must be issued by a USDA Accredited Veterinarian and endorsed by an APHIS Veterinary Medical Officer within 14 days of departure.
View Hong Kong Licensing requirements and  import license information

If your species is not listed, the requirements for that species are not known. Exporters who want to ship livestock or germplasm whose requirements are not listed above should have the importer or buyer in the destination country apply for an import permit at the appropriate ministry. This import permit will most likely outline the specific requirements.

Need Help?

Download contacts

USDA-Accredited Veterinarians

Contact a USDA-accredited veterinarian for questions about your destination country's entry requirements for animals (including any needed vaccinations, tests, or treatments) and for issuance of health certificates.

Find a USDA-Accredited Veterinarian

USDA Endorsement Offices

Contact your nearest APHIS Veterinary Export Trade Services Endorsement Office for questions about endorsing an export health certificate for live animals.