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The Hawaii Neighbor Island Permit form is a crucial document for pet owners wishing to transport their dogs or cats directly to Kona, Kahului, or Lihue airports from another state, bypassing the need for their pets to undergo quarantine in Honolulu. It outlines a detailed checklist, including a requirement for pets to meet specific health and documentation criteria, the necessity of securing services from a designated veterinary hospital for inspection upon arrival, and a fee of $145. To ease the process of bringing your pets to Hawaii and ensure compliance with all requirements, click the button below to fill out the form.

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Overview

Traveling to Hawaii with pets introduces an intricate process designed to protect both the local environment and the incoming animals. The Hawaii Neighbor Island Permit form stands at the core of this process for those looking to directly release their pets at Kona, Kahului, and Lihue airports, bypassing the longer quarantine periods traditionally required for animals entering Hawaii. This comprehensive checklist ensures that every dog or cat meets stringent health and vaccination requirements before arrival. With necessary steps including a notarized Dog & Cat Import Form, up-to-date rabies vaccine certificates, and a meticulous inspection booking with designated veterinary hospitals, owners must meticulously plan their pet's relocation. Payment arrangements and the correct completion of the form, including selecting the necessary inspection permit section, are pivotal. Furthermore, the importance of coordinating with participating airlines and securing a Neighbor Island Inspection Permit ahead of travel cannot be overstressed. By enforcing these protocols, Hawaii's Department of Agriculture aims to maintain the health and safety of the archipelago's delicate ecosystem while accommodating pet owners’ needs for a more streamlined entry process.

Example - Hawaii Neighbor Island Permit Form

Checklist for Requesting Direct Airport Release at

03/2018

Kona, Kahului and Lihue Airports

 

 

 

Please check each box to verify that all items have been read and understood. All procedures must be followed or the dog or cat will be denied entry at Kona, Kahului or Lihue Airport. Pets that are denied entry will be transported to Honolulu for inspection or transported out-of-State at the owner’s expense.

Contact a listed veterinary hospital before booking your flight to see if they are able to perform the inspection.

Some airlines may not be participating. Check with your airline well in advance.

Every dog or cat must meet all the requirements listed on the “Checklist for the 5-Day-or-Less Program” except that all required documents must be submitted earlier; 30 days or more before the intended date of arrival. Please follow the “Checklist for the 5-Day-or-Less Program” which is available atwww.hawaii.gov/hdoa/ai/aqs/info

Owners must submit the following documentation to the Animal Quarantine Station 30 days or more ahead of the planned arrival:

1. Completed and notarized Dog & Cat Import Form (AQS278).

2. Original rabies vaccine certificates for the 2 most recent vaccinations.

3. Payment of $145 in cashier’s check or money order made out to the Dept. of Agriculture (no personal checks).

4. Flight information (i.e. Airlines, flight number, date and time of arrival).

5. Check“Neighbor Island Inspection Permit $145” on the program applying for section

of the Dog and Cat Import Form AQS-278; or attach a note “requesting NIIP”.

Owners must contract with and make reservations for inspection with: Alii Veterinary Hospital (808) 329-8999 or Keauhou Veterinary Hospital (808) 322-2988 for Kona arrivals; At Home Animal Hospital & Mobile Veterinary Services (808) 873-0102, Central Maui Animal Clinic (808) 893-2380, Kahului Animal Hospital (808) 871-7387, Kihei Veterinary Clinic (808) 879-5777, Makawao Veterinary Clinic (808) 572-9003, Maui Humane Society (808) 877- 3680, South Shore Veterinary Care (808) 874-3422, or West Maui Animal Clinic (808) 662-0099 for Kahului arrivals; or Kauai Humane Society (808) 632-0610 for Lihue arrivals. These contractors will send a confirmation to the Animal Quarantine Station that they have agreed to perform the inspection and release procedure. Owners are responsible for the additional fees to the contractor for this service.

Contact a listed veterinary hospital before booking your flight to see if they are able to perform the inspection.

A Kona, Kahului or Lihue Neighbor Island Inspection Permit will be mailed to the owner once the Animal Quarantine Stationhas:

Received the above required documents, information and payment (see 1-5 above);

Confirmed the pet meets all of the requirements for the 5-Day-or-Less program and neighbor island inspection and release; and

Received confirmation from Alii Veterinary Hospital, Keauhou Veterinary Hospital,

At Home Animal Hospital & Mobile Veterinary Care, Central Maui Animal Clinic, Kahului Animal Hospital, Kihei Veterinary Clinic, Makawao Veterinary Clinic, Maui Humane Society, South Shore Veterinary Care, West Maui Animal Clinic or Kauai Humane Society that they will meet the pet.

The original Neighbor Island Inspection Permit must accompany the dog or cat on the aircraft and be submitted to the inspector upon arrival in Hawaii.

Airlines are not permitted to fly a dog or cat directly to Kona, Kahului or Lihue from the Continental US without a valid Neighbor Island Inspection Permit issued by the Department of Agriculture.

The Animal Quarantine Station will send permits to owners via regular mail. If an owner prefers faster delivery, they must submit a prepaid self-addressed return envelope froman overnight carrier (FedEx, UPS, etc.) with the documents.

An original health certificate (dated within 14 days of arrival) will be collected by the inspector upon arrival in Hawaii. It is highly recommended that owners check with their airline as some require the health certificate to be dated within 10 days of arrival.

Document Information

Fact Detail
Objective The form is used to request Direct Airport Release at Kona, Kahului, and Lihue Airports in Hawaii for dogs and cats.
Pre-arrival Requirements Pet owners must submit documentation including a notarized Dog & Cat Import Form, rabies vaccine certificates, and payment 30 days before arrival.
Payment A payment of $145 is required, payable by cashier's check or money order to the Dept. of Agriculture.
Inspection Reservations Owners must book an inspection with a listed veterinary hospital for the arrival airport.
Program Requirement Confirmation The Neighbor Island Inspection Permit will be issued once all requirements are met and a veterinary hospital confirms the inspection arrangement.
Airlines Policy Airlines cannot fly a dog or cat directly to the specified airports from the Continental US without a valid Neighbor Island Inspection Permit.
Governing Law The Hawaii Department of Agriculture oversees and regulates this process under state-specific animal quarantine laws.

Guide to Writing Hawaii Neighbor Island Permit

When planning to bring a dog or cat directly to Hawaii's Kona, Kahului, or Lihue Airports, pet owners must navigate a specific set of requirements to ensure their pet is not denied entry. The process involves submitting essential documentation and contracting with designated veterinary hospitals for inspection. Failure to comply with these requirements will result in the pet being transported to Honolulu for inspection or out of the state at the owner’s expense. The Hawaii Neighbor Island Permit form is a crucial step in this process, guiding pet owners through the necessary preparations and submissions.

  1. First, ensure you understand all the requirements listed on the form, as each box must be checked to verify your compliance.
  2. Contact a listed veterinary hospital to confirm they can perform the inspection before booking your flight. This is crucial since not all veterinary hospitals may offer this service or have availability.
  3. Next, gather the necessary documentation:
    • A completed and notarized Dog & Cat Import Form (AQS278).
    • Original rabies vaccine certificates for the two most recent vaccinations.
    • A cashier’s check or money order for $145 made payable to the Dept. of Agriculture. Note that personal checks are not accepted.
    • Detailed flight information, including the airline, flight number, date, and time of arrival.
  4. Indicate on the Dog and Cat Import Form AQS-278, under the program applying for section, that you are requesting a “Neighbor Island Inspection Permit” and include the $145 fee or attach a separate note stating “requesting NIIP.”
  5. Submit the completed documentation and payment to the Animal Quarantine Station at least 30 days before your intended arrival.
  6. Ensure that the chosen veterinary hospital sends a confirmation to the Animal Quarantine Station that they have agreed to perform the inspection and release procedure. You are responsible for any additional fees charged by the contractor for this service.
  7. Wait for the Neighbor Island Inspection Permit to be mailed to you by the Animal Quarantine Station, confirming that your pet meets all requirements for the 5-Day-or-Less program and the neighbor island inspection and release.
  8. Make sure the original Neighbor Island Inspection Permit accompanies your dog or cat on the aircraft and is presented to the inspector upon arrival in Hawaii. Remember, airlines are not permitted to transport a dog or cat directly to Kona, Kahului, or Lihue from the Continental US without a valid permit.
  9. If you prefer faster delivery of the permit, provide a prepaid self-addressed return envelope from an overnight carrier (FedEx, UPS, etc.) with your documents.
  10. Lastly, remember that an original health certificate dated within 14 days of arrival will be collected upon your pet’s arrival in Hawaii. Check with your airline if a health certificate dated within 10 days of arrival is required.

By following these steps meticulously and ensuring all documentation is accurately completed and submitted on time, pet owners can facilitate a smoother entry process for their pets into Hawaii. Attention to detail and compliance with the specified requirements are key to avoiding any complications or delays in your pet's direct airport release.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What is the purpose of the Neighbor Island Inspection Permit in Hawaii?

    The Neighbor Island Inspection Permit is designed to facilitate the direct release of dogs and cats at Kona, Kahului, and Lihue airports, bypassing the need for quarantine upon arrival in Hawaii, provided that all specific health and documentation requirements are met. This permit is part of a broader effort to protect Hawaii's unique ecosystem from rabies and other diseases while making pet travel more convenient for pet owners.

  2. Which pets are eligible for the Neighbor Island Inspection Permit?

    Only dogs and cats that meet all the health and documentation requirements outlined in the Checklist for the 5-Day-or-Less Program, including having current rabies vaccination certificates and a completed and notarized Dog & Cat Import Form (AQS278), are eligible. All required documents must be submitted at least 30 days before the date of arrival.

  3. How much does it cost to apply for a Neighbor Island Inspection Permit?

    There is a $145 fee for the Neighbor Island Inspection Permit. Payment must be made via cashier’s check or money order payable to the Dept. of Agriculture. Personal checks are not accepted. This fee is in addition to any fees charged by the contracted veterinary hospital for the inspection service.

  4. Where do I submit the application and required documents for the Neighbor Island Inspection Permit?

    Owners must submit the completed and notarized Dog & Cat Import Form (AQS278), original rabies vaccine certificates, payment, and flight information to the Animal Quarantine Station at least 30 days before the planned arrival. This ensures there is enough time to process the application and issue the permit.

  5. How do I arrange for the inspection upon arrival?

    Owners must contract with and make reservations for inspection with a listed veterinary hospital that has agreed to perform the inspection and release procedure. It's crucial to contact the veterinary hospital before booking your flight to ensure they can accommodate your pet's arrival.

  6. What happens if my pet is denied entry at Kona, Kahului, or Lihue Airport?

    Pets denied entry will be transported to Honolulu for inspection or out of the state at the owner's expense. This emphasizes the importance of ensuring all requirements are met before arrival.

  7. How will I receive the Neighbor Island Inspection Permit?

    Once all necessary documents, payments, and confirmations are received and processed, the Animal Quarantine Station will mail the Neighbor Island Inspection Permit to the owner. If expedited delivery is needed, owners can provide a prepaid self-addressed return envelope from an overnight carrier.

  8. Are there any specific airline requirements I should be aware of?

    Some airlines may have additional requirements for pet travel or may not participate in the Neighbor Island Inspection Program. It's recommended that pet owners check with their airline well in advance to ensure compliance with all airline policies, particularly regarding health certificate validity which some airlines require to be within 10 days of arrival.

Common mistakes

  1. One common mistake involves not submitting all required documents in advance, specifically at least 30 days before the intended arrival date. The necessary documents include a completed and notarized Dog & Cat Import Form (AQS278), original rabies vaccine certificates for the two most recent vaccinations, payment of $145 in cashier’s check or money order, flight information, and a check or note requesting the Neighbor Island Inspection Permit (NIIP).

  2. Another mistake is failing to check with airlines well in advance regarding their participation in the direct airport release program. Not all airlines offer this service, and it's crucial for pet owners to verify this information to avoid complications during travel.

  3. Some pet owners overlook the importance of contracting with and making reservations for inspection with a listed veterinary hospital on the Neighbor Island. This reservation is essential for the approval process, and without it, pets may be denied entry and subjected to additional inspections or transport at the owner's expense.

  4. Lastly, a significant oversight involves not including an original health certificate dated within 14 days of arrival. Although this certificate is collected upon arrival in Hawaii, some airlines might require the certificate to be dated within 10 days of arrival. Overlooking this detail can result in travel delays or denial of entry for the pet.

It's imperative for pet owners to meticulously review and adhere to all the requirements and deadlines outlined in the checklist for requesting direct airport release at Kona, Kahului, and Lihue Airports. Ensuring all documents are submitted correctly and in a timely manner, verifying airline participation, arranging for an inspection with a listed veterinary hospital, and securing the necessary health certification are all critical steps in the process. By avoiding these common mistakes, pet owners can facilitate a smoother and less stressful travel experience for themselves and their pets.

Documents used along the form

When planning to transport pets to Hawaii, particularly through the Neighbor Island Permit form, individuals often need to prepare and gather several additional documents to ensure a smooth process. This isn't merely about filling out a form; it's navigating a pathway that ensures the safety and health of pets during their relocation process. Each document plays its vital role, either by verifying the pet's health status, ensuring compliance with Hawaii's strict animal import regulations, or facilitating the entry process upon arrival.

  • Dog & Cat Import Form (AQS-278): This essential document initiates the process, requiring detailed information about the pet, vaccination history, and the owner's contact details. Notarization is mandatory, underscoring its importance in the array of required paperwork.
  • Original Rabies Vaccine Certificates: These certificates prove the pet has received the necessary vaccinations against rabies. Hawaii's stringent requirements emphasize having the 2 most recent certificates on hand to prevent the spread of this disease.
  • Cashier’s Check or Money Order: Payment is a critical part of submitting documents for processing. It covers the inspection fees, making a cashier's check or money order payable to the Dept. of Agriculture a required part of the submission packet.
  • Flight Information: Providing details of the airline, flight number, date, and time of arrival is crucial for coordinating the inspection process upon the pet's arrival. This ensures that all arrangements are in place for a seamless entry.
  • Health Certificate: Issued by a vet, this document certifies that the pet is healthy and fit for travel. It must be dated within 14 days of arrival, aligning with airline and state requirements to ensure the pet’s health status is current.
  • Fecal Test Results: Some pets may require proof of a negative fecal test to ensure they are free from parasites that could threaten the health of local animal populations. This is especially critical for areas aiming to maintain a high standard of animal health and biosecurity.
  • Tick Treatment Documentation: Because Hawaii is rabies-free and aims to remain so, evidence of tick treatment may be necessary to prevent the introduction of tick-borne diseases, further safeguarding local wildlife and pet populations.
  • Microchip Information: Documenting the pet’s microchip number is vital for identification purposes. It's an extra layer of assurance that matches the pet with the owner and other submitted documents, reinforcing the integrity of the inspection process.
  • Permit Approval Confirmation: After submitting all required documents and making payment, receiving confirmation of permit approval is essential. This document signifies that all prerequisites have been met and authorizes the pet’s entry under the specified regulations.
  • Emergency Contact Information: While not always formally required, providing details of an emergency contact can be crucial in the event of unforeseen circumstances during transport or upon arrival.

Compiling these documents is not just about compliance—it's a proactive measure to ensure pets face the least amount of stress possible, receive appropriate care, and enter Hawaii safely. Owners are encouraged to meticulously review each requirement, prepare their documents ahead of the stipulated deadlines, and stay in touch with veterinary hospitals and the Hawaii Department of Agriculture to ensure a smooth process. Safeguarding the pet's health and the biosecurity of the islands remains the utmost priority in this diligently regulated procedure.

Similar forms

The Hawaii Neighbor Island Permit form is similar to the Dog & Cat Import Form (AQS-278) and the Checklist for the 5-Day-or-Less Program. Each of these documents serves a unique purpose in the process of bringing pets to Hawaii, but they share a common goal: ensuring the health and safety of the animals and the local ecosystem.

The Dog & Cat Import Form (AQS-278) is closely related to the Hawaii Neighbor Island Permit form in terms of its use for animal importation. Both forms require detailed information about the pet's health history, rabies vaccination records, and specific details about the animal's arrival. However, the Dog & Cat Import Form is more comprehensive, asking for a notarized declaration and more extensive vaccination documentation. Like the Neighbor Island Permit, this form is crucial for the legal and safe importation of dogs and cats into Hawaii, underscoring the state's strict biosecurity measures to protect against rabies and other diseases.

Similarly, the Checklist for the 5-Day-or-Less Program shares several requirements with the Hawaii Neighbor Island Permit form, aiming to streamline the process of bringing pets into Hawaii while minimizing quarantine time. This checklist delineates necessary steps, such as securing appropriate vaccinations and obtaining health certificates, which are also prerequisites for the Neighbor Island Permit. The key difference lies in the specific focus of the Checklist on reducing quarantine duration through early preparation and compliance with health standards, whereas the Neighbor Island Permit form facilitates direct airport release in Kona, Kahului, and Lihue. Both documents emphasize timely submission of paperwork and adherence to health guidelines, illustrating Hawaii's commitment to animal welfare and disease prevention.

Dos and Don'ts

When preparing to fill out the Hawaii Neighbor Island Permit form for transporting pets, it's important to pay close attention to detail and adhere strictly to the guidelines provided. The process, while straightforward, requires careful attention to ensure your pet's smooth entry. Below are seven essential dos and don'ts to help guide you through the process:

  • Do check with your airline well in advance to confirm their participation in the direct airport release program, as some airlines may not participate.
  • Do follow the “Checklist for the 5-Day-or-Less Program” closely, which includes submitting all required documentation at least 30 days before your intended date of arrival.
  • Do ensure the Dog & Cat Import Form (AQS278) is completed and notarized, and that you include the original rabies vaccine certificates for the two most recent vaccinations.
  • Do contact one of the listed veterinary hospitals to arrange an inspection and make sure they send confirmation of this arrangement to the Animal Quarantine Station.
  • Don’t attempt to submit personal checks for the fee; instead, ensure payment of $145 is made via cashier’s check or money order payable to the Dept. of Agriculture.
  • Don’t neglect to include your flight information (Airlines, flight number, date, and time of arrival) on the Dog and Cat Import Form AQS-278, or forget to check the “Neighbor Island Inspection Permit $145” box on the form or attach a note requesting NIIP.
  • Don’t overlook the importance of ensuring the original Neighbor Island Inspection Permit accompanies your pet on the aircraft and is presented to the inspector upon arrival in Hawaii, as per the requirements.

Adhering to these dos and don'ts will help ensure that your pet's entry into Hawaii is as smooth and stress-free as possible. Remember to prepare all documents well in advance and stay in close communication with the chosen veterinary hospital to avoid any potential hiccups in the process.

Misconceptions

Understanding the Hawaii Neighbor Island Permit form and its requirements is crucial for pet owners planning to travel with their pets to Kona, Kahului, or Lihue airports. However, misconceptions about the process can lead to confusion and undue stress. Here are five common misconceptions and clarifications to help guide pet owners through the process:

  • All airlines allow direct airport release for pets.

    It's not universal that every airline will accommodate direct airport release for dogs or cats. Pet owners must verify with their airlines well in advance to ensure participation in the program, avoiding any unexpected complications upon arrival.

  • Documentation can be submitted anytime before travel.

    One critical requirement is that all necessary documentation must be submitted to the Animal Quarantine Station at least 30 days before the intended date of arrival. Late submissions could result in entry denial, leading to the pet being transported to Honolulu for inspection or, worse, transported out-of-state at the owner's expense.

  • The Neighbor Island Inspection Permit (NIIP) is automatically included with the Dog and Cat Import Form.

    When filling out the Dog and Cat Import Form (AQS278), owners must explicitly check the “Neighbor Island Inspection Permit $145” box in the program applying section or attach a note requesting NIIP. Assuming it's automatically included could leave the pet stranded upon arrival.

  • Inspection and release are handled directly by the airport's staff.

    Inspections are not performed by airport staff but by contracted veterinary hospitals pre-arranged by the pet owner. It is the owner's responsibility to make these arrangements and confirm them with the Animal Quarantine Station. The veterinary hospitals will confirm their agreement to conduct the inspection and release procedure, ensuring a smooth process.

  • A Neighbor Island Inspection Permit alone guarantees entry.

    Even with the Neighbor Island Inspection Permit, a pet's entry is conditional upon meeting all the requirements listed on the “Checklist for the 5-Day-or-Less Program”. Moreover, an original health certificate, dated within 14 days of arrival (with some airlines requiring within 10 days), must be presented upon arrival. Failing to meet these conditions can lead to entry denial.

Ensuring a pleasant journey for both pet and owner to Hawaii's neighbor islands starts with a clear understanding of these requirements and clarifications. Proper preparation and adherence to the guidelines will facilitate a smooth process for direct airport release.

Key takeaways

When planning to bring a dog or cat into Hawaii and directly into the smaller islands like Maui, Kauai, or the Big Island, it's crucial to obtain a Neighbor Island Inspection Permit. This process involves numerous steps which, if not followed precisely, could result in your pet being denied entry or facing additional expenses. Here are key takeaways to ensure a smooth process:

  • Book an appointment with a listed veterinary hospital to ensure they can perform the necessary inspection upon your pet's arrival. This step should be taken before booking your flight, as some airlines might not participate in the direct airport release program.
  • All dogs and cats must comply with the "Checklist for the 5-Day-or-Less Program" standards. However, all required documents must be submitted to the Animal Quarantine Station at least 30 days before your intended arrival.
  • Document submission includes a completed and notarized Dog & Cat Import Form (AQS278), original rabies vaccine certificates for the two most recent vaccinations, and payment of $145 via cashier’s check or money order. Flight details must also be provided.
  • Check the box or attach a note for "Neighbor Island Inspection Permit $145" on the Dog and Cat Import Form AQS-278 to indicate the specific program you're applying for.
  • A confirmation that the veterinary hospital can perform the inspection and release procedure will be sent to the Animal Quarinary Station. It's important to note that there will be an additional fee charged by the contractor for this service.
  • The permit will be mailed to the owner after the Animal Quarantine Station has received all required documents, confirmed the pet meets all necessary requirements, and received confirmation from the contracting veterinary hospital.
  • The original Neighbor Island Inspection Permit must accompany your pet on the aircraft and be presented to the inspector upon arrival in Hawaii. Pets cannot be directly flown to Kona, Kahului, or Lihue from the Continental US without this valid permit.
  • For expedited delivery of the permit, owners can send a prepaid self-addressed return envelope from an overnight carrier along with their documents. Additionally, it's crucial to have an original health certificate, dated within 14 days of arrival, ready to be collected by the inspector in Hawaii; some airlines may require this certificate to be dated within 10 days of arrival.
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