Moving to Hawaii with Your Pets​

We are big lovers of our furry family members at Salt Water Real Estate, and I want to help you avoid any delays getting them here safely as you make your move to the islands. 

Hawaii is the only rabies free state in the U.S., and that status shapes everything about how dogs and cats enter the islands. One missed step can mean a 120-day quarantine at your expense. 

This guide breaks down the real timeline, costs, and requirements so your pet can walk out of the Honolulu airport with you — not into quarantine. 

Why Hawaii’s Pet Rules Are So Strict

Hawaii’s Department of Agriculture & Biosecurity enforces some of the toughest animal import laws in the country. Every dog and cat must either qualify for Direct Airport Release or enter the 5–Day–or–Less program — otherwise, the default is 120 days of quarantine.

The Three Entry Paths for Pets

1. Direct Airport Release (DAR) – Best case scenario

If you follow every step correctly, your pet can be released at the airport the same day as you arrive. Thousands of families achieve this each year.

2. 5-Day-or-Less Program

Pets stay at the state facility for up to five days. This usually happens when paperwork is correct, but timing is slightly off.

3. 120-Day Quarantine – the slow, long one!

This is the default if documents are missing, late, or incorrect. The fee is $1,080 per pet.

The Required Steps (and Timeline) for Direct Airport Release

1. Microchip

Your pet must have a microchip before any rabies testing. 

2. Two Rabies Vaccinations

Both must be current and properly documented. 

3. FAVN Rabies Antibody Test

This is the most critical step. Your pet must pass the FAVN test, and the results must be sent directly to Hawaii’s lab. 

4. 30-Day Waiting Period

After the FAVN test is accepted, you must wait 30 days before arrival.

5. Required Documents 

• Dog & Cat Import Form 

• Health Certificate (issued within 14 days of arrival) 

• Payment for DAR or 5-Day-or-Less 

• Original rabies certificates

6. Arrival at Honolulu

All pets must land in Honolulu for inspection, even if your destination is another island. 

Costs You Should Expect 

• FAVN test varies by vet, often $80–$200 

• Health certificate: $75–$150 

• Direct Airport Release fee: typically, around $185 

• 120-day quarantine (if required): $1,080 flat fee
  
  

What Happens If You Miss a Step 

There are zero exceptions. Missing or mis-timed paperwork means your pet goes to quarantine. 

Even small errors — wrong dates, missing signatures, incorrect microchip numbers — trigger the 120-day default. 

When I first moved to Hawaii in 1974, I brought my 6-year-old Great Dane, and the only option at that time was the 120-day quarantine. Luckily, we lived close enough to the quarantine facility that we could visit her often, but it was difficult for our whole family. The process works when you follow the steps and then you can begin your new journey in Hawaii together.