Heard, 29, came under fire in April for failing to declare Yorkshire terriers Pistol and Boo to authorities on their arrival in Brisbane, reported Time.
Depp is currently filming the latest instalment of the "Pirates of the Caribbean" franchise in Australia's Gold Coast.
But Heard, the star of "Friday Night Lights" and "Magic Mike XXL", has been ordered to appear in court, Australia's department of agriculture confirmed.
"Ms Amber Heard was served with a summons issued by the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions on July 14," a statement read.
"All animals entering Australia must have an import permit, and have undergone relevant testing and health checks signed off by a government veterinarian from the exporting country to ensure pests and diseases from overseas are not brought here.