UK dog owners have been alerted to new travel regulations affecting trips to Europe. Since April 22, residents of the United Kingdom can no longer obtain European Union pet passports. Instead, pet owners must secure an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) for each journey, costing at least £90.
Previously, UK residents could bypass this fee by using EU-issued passports obtained from veterinarians in EU countries. However, the April rule change has officially invalidated EU pet passports for anyone residing in Britain.
Required Documents for Permanent Moves
For those planning a permanent relocation to Europe, experts at Feather Insurance have outlined the necessary paperwork:
- A valid, in-date rabies vaccination
- An ISO-compliant microchip implanted before the rabies vaccination
- An Animal Health Certificate issued within 10 days of EU entry by an Official Veterinarian
A spokesperson for the company stated: "The order matters - owners should be aware that microchipping must come before vaccination, or border authorities will consider the jab invalid and owners will have to start again. It's also worth noting that the EU has set a limit of five pets per vehicle, and anyone travelling with more animals will need to make separate arrangements."
Country-Specific Rules
France
France, a popular destination for British expats, applies standard EU rules. Rabies vaccinations must be at least 21 days old if it is a first jab, and no tapeworm treatment is required for pets arriving from the UK. Multiple approved entry points are available via Calais, Dunkirk, and other Channel crossings. Once registered as a resident, a French vet can issue an EU pet passport.
Germany
Germany accepts AHCs and follows the standard EU framework but enforces a federal-level import ban on four breeds: Pit Bull Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers, Staffordshire Bull Terriers, and Bull Terriers. These dogs cannot legally enter Germany for permanent residence; the only exemption is for tourist visits of under four weeks.
Spain
Spain applies standard EU requirements, including the AHC. Pets must have a rabies vaccination valid at the time of travel, administered at least 21 days prior to entry. Unvaccinated animals will be refused entry. No tapeworm treatment is required, and the same AHC covers travel to the Canary Islands and Balearics. Owners of certain breeds, such as Pit Bull Terriers, Staffordshire Bull Terriers, and Rottweilers, must obtain a local licence and liability insurance under Spain's PPP classification.
Italy
Italy requires the AHC and microchipping before rabies vaccination. There is no national breed ban, so all breeds can currently enter. No tapeworm treatment is needed for dogs from the UK, and no quarantine orders apply if paperwork is in order.
Portugal
Portugal, home to thousands of British expats, applies standard EU rules. All residents must register their dogs, cats, or ferrets with the national Companion Animal Information System (SIAC). Certain cities like Lisbon and Porto also require an annual dog tax, usually under €10.
Insurance Advice
A Feather Insurance spokesperson added: "Relocating a pet is stressful, and unexpected vet bills in a new country can be costly. Making sure you have comprehensive pet insurance in place before you travel gives you one less thing to worry about on moving day. Policies vary widely, so check the small print on geographical coverage and ensure it covers the journey itself, not just arrival."
