Do You Need a Pet Passport to Move Abroad?

Moving abroad with your pet can be exciting because your best friend is with you. Sometimes it can be stressful if the process is not followed according to rules and regulations, especially if you don’t have valid legal documents for your pet, like a passport or certificate. This guide answers all your questions.

Many pet owners wonder, “Do I need a pet passport, or is there another way?” Let’s break it down in a simple way, covering all pets, alternatives, and every requirement you need to know.

Moving Pets To Another Country

Is a Pet Passport Essential for Your Pet?

The short answer is: usually, yes—but not always.

For cats, dogs, and ferrets:

UK → Europe: A UK pet passport is not accepted. You must have a UK Animal Health Certificate (AHC) for your pet to cross into Europe.
Europe → UK: Either an EU Pet Passport or a UK Animal Health Certificate is accepted.
Pet Passport or Certificate

A pet passport or AHC acts as proof that your pet:

Has a microchip (microchip must always be done before rabies vaccination)
Is vaccinated against rabies
Meets all legal health requirements for travel

It’s the quickest and easiest way to move pets legally. If your pet doesn’t have one, there are alternatives—we’ll get to that next.

Alternatives to a Pet Passport

Animal Health Certificate (AHC)

If your pet doesn’t have a passport, an Animal Health Certificate is your go-to option:

Issued by a registered vet in the UK
Valid for 10 days from the date of issue
Allows a one-time entry into EU countries
Contains details of microchip, vaccinations, and health status

The certificate is perfect for pets who travel abroad occasionally or don’t yet have a passport.

Third-Country Health Certificates

For countries outside the EU, the pet passport isn’t accepted. You’ll need a specific health certificate that often includes:

Veterinary check confirming fitness to travel
Proof of rabies vaccination (after microchip insertion)
Microchip information
Possibly additional vaccinations depending on the country

Temporary Import Permits

Exotic pets or some small animals may need special permits for short-term or permanent relocation. Always check the local rules for the type of pet you own.

Core Requirements for Moving Pets Abroad

No matter what document you use, most countries require:

Microchip: ISO-compliant and registered; number must match all documentation
Rabies Vaccination: Must be up-to-date; microchip must be done before vaccination
Parasite Treatment:
- Tapeworm treatment is required for dogs entering the UK
- Must be given by a registered vet 24–120 hours before travel
- Documented in passport or AHC, signed, dated, and stamped
- Not required when leaving the UK
  Bringing Your Pet To The UK
Health Certificate or Check: Vet must confirm your pet is healthy; usually issued within 10 days before travel
Safe Transport: Use approved carriers, climate-controlled vehicles, and ensure food, water, and comfort

Pet-Specific Notes

There are many pets, but not all need passports. Below are pet-specific notes for booking or hiring a pet taxi:

Dogs and Cats: Pet passport is standard; AHC is alternative; rabies vaccination must be current; microchip must be readable
Ferrets: Treated like cats and dogs in EU regulations; need same documents
Small Pets (Rabbits, Guinea Pigs, Hamsters): Rules vary; may need health certificates or import permits; keep travel safe and comfortable
Birds: Sensitive to temperature, stress, and drafts; often require import permits and health checks
Reptiles: Require temperature-controlled containers; special permits often needed; consult country-specific rules
Fish: Usually don’t need a passport; transport in oxygenated, sealed bags; large aquariums may require professional movers
Passports For Pets

A Few Important Takeaways

“An EU pet passport is the easiest option for travel within the EU. For travel from the UK to the EU, a UK-issued pet passport is not accepted unless it has been updated in the EU; otherwise, an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) is required.
Other certificates or permits are for exotic pets or non-EU countries
Microchip, rabies vaccination (microchip first), parasite treatment, and health checks are always required
Safety and comfort during transport are essential

For road travel, consider services like LeShuttle crossing with a dog or Pet taxi Eurotunnel / LeShuttle

Pet Travel Checklist