The process of transporting pets overseas in 2026 has become even more digitalized, multi-staged, and rigorous. If you are planning to export of dogs from Georgia to the USA, it is crucial to understand that Georgia remains on the list of high-risk countries for rabies according to the CDC classification.
This imposes a series of specific and strict obligations on the owner; failure to comply can lead to an immediate denial of boarding in Tbilisi or Batumi, or even the deportation of the animal upon arrival at a U.S. airport. In 2026, import rules were updated to minimize the risk of fraudulent certificates, meaning every document now undergoes end-to-end verification in international databases. The Delivery Animal team has prepared this comprehensive guide to ensure your preparation goes smoothly and your pet clears the border successfully.
1. Basic Requirements: Age and Identification
According to the current CDC requirements for dog imports, in 2026, the entry of puppies under 6 months of age from Georgia is strictly prohibited. This is because an animal’s immune system must be mature enough to form a confirmed antibody response to vaccination.
Microchip:
- The dog must be microchipped before the final rabies vaccination is administered.
- The microchip number must be stated in all veterinary documents without exception. Remember: if the chip cannot be read upon arrival at a U.S. airport, the export of dogs from Georgia to the USA will be voided on the spot at the owner’s expense.
2. Vaccination and Titer Test (FAVN)
Since Georgia is classified as a high-risk country for rabies, a standard passport with a vaccination record is insufficient.
Key Stages:
- Vaccination: Use only vaccines approved by international standards (e.g., Nobivac or Rabisin).
- Antibody Test: Blood collection for titers (FAVN) must be performed no earlier than 30 days after vaccination. The result must be at least 0.5 IU/ml.
- Important Clarification: Starting in 2026, results are only accepted from CDC-certified laboratories. If you are conducting the test in Georgia, ensure the clinic sends the serum to an accredited center in Europe or the USA.
3. The New Digital Import Form (CDC Dog Import Form)
In 2026, a mandatory requirement is the completion of the online CDC Dog Import Form. This is the primary document without which the export of dogs from Georgia to the USA is physically impossible—airlines simply will not issue a boarding pass for the pet without it.
- The form must be completed at least 2–10 days before departure.
- After submission, the system generates a receipt with a QR code. This must be printed and attached to the animal’s crate.
- This form confirms that you have reviewed the rules and reserved a space at a quarantine center if required.
4. Port of Entry Selection and ACF Booking
The export of dogs from Georgia to the USA in 2026 is only permitted through a limited list of airports equipped with Animal Care Facilities (ACF). These include:
- New York (JFK)
- Atlanta (ATL)
- Miami (MIA)
- Los Angeles (LAX)
- Washington D.C. (IAD)
If your dog was vaccinated outside the United States (e.g., in Georgia), you are required to book an examination at an ACF in advance. This is a paid procedure, and the booking confirmation is a critical document for customs clearance.
5. Technical Transportation Requirements (IATA)
Airlines operating flights from Tbilisi (such as Qatar Airways, Lufthansa, or Turkish Airlines) strictly monitor crate compliance with IATA standards.
- Crate Size: The dog must be able to stand at full height (without ears touching the ceiling), turn around, and lie down in a natural position.
- Material: Rigid plastic only. Wooden or collapsible fabric crates are prohibited for transport in the cargo hold.
- Hygiene: Availability of a water bowl that can be refilled from the outside and an absorbent mat on the floor.
Why Do Professionals Choose Delivery Animal?
The export of dogs from Georgia to the USA is a multi-stage process requiring constant monitoring of expiration dates for certificates and tests. At Delivery Animal, we take care of:
- Coordinating blood collection for titers and managing the logistics of samples to the laboratory.
- Processing the State Health Form No. 1 in Georgia.
- Assisting with the completion of online CDC forms and communicating with quarantine centers in the States.
- Selecting optimal flight routes with minimal layovers to ensure your pet experiences as little stress as possible.
Conclusion
Plan the export of dogs from Georgia to the USA at least 2–3 months before your move date. Keep in mind that summer and winter temperature restrictions imposed by airlines may necessitate adjustments to your schedule. The Delivery Animal team is always ready to help you turn a complex flight into a safe journey for your four-legged friend.
