Move Your Pet European Union
Leave the details to us!
Moving to the European Union? Pet import into EU member states is now easier, whether your pet is going for the first time or returning home.
Four simple steps to follow for the EU:
- Show proof of a current rabies vaccination.
- The first vaccination after microchipping or any lapse in coverage is a "primary" vaccination and only valid for one year under EU rules - even if the pet received a three-year vaccine.
- If the primary lapses - even by one day - you must start over.
- If your pet receives its booster before the primary lapses, it is valid for one to three years depending on the vaccine manufacturer's instructions.
- Pet parents are required to prove there was no lapse in rabies vaccination coverage since the primary vaccination.
- The microchip number must be on the vaccination certificate and confirmed by veterinary examination.
- At least 21 days after the most recent rabies vaccination, book an appointment with a USDA-accredited veterinarian to issue an international pet health certificate. Your veterinary appointment must be within 10 days of arrival in the EU.
- The next step is USDA export endorsement.
These EU countries require additional veterinary procedures such as internal parasite treatment:
- Cyprus
- Finland
- Greece
- Ireland
- Malta
- Norway
- Switzerland
Pets entering the EU are required to arrive within five days of their owners or authorized agent. If not, additional fees may apply.
Want to simplify your paperwork?
Air Animal clients can keep track of vaccination certificates by uploading them to their Air Animal Pet Portal accounts.
Or you might ask your veterinarian to scan your pet's microchip and give your pet a one-year rabies vaccination at least 21 days but less than one year before your travel date. That way, no matter the rabies vaccination history, you only have to keep up with one vaccination certificate instead of several.
After you move:
Please register with a local veterinarian to keep your pet's rabies vaccination up to date. Veterinarians typically send reminder notices when vaccinations are due.
Also consider having your U.S. veterinarian run a complete blood count, a differential and chem panel on your dog or cat before moving. Take the report with you to share with your new veterinarian. If another move is in your future, you and your pet will be ready.
Air Animal knows and understands pet import requirements. We'll take care of all the details including issuing the EU Pet Travel Certificate and arranging for the accredited veterinarian. Pet moving made easy®. That's our focus, our passion and our promise.