UK Pets Travel to EU After Brexit: Updated 2025 Rules

As of 2025, travelling to the European Union (EU) with your pet from the UK requires careful preparation due to significant changes introduced after the Brexit transition period ended on 1st January 2021. These new regulations affect all British pet owners, whether heading to EU holiday homes, visiting family, or relocating with their beloved animals.

Understanding the current rules will help you navigate the process smoothly, ensuring your pet’s health and legal compliance for travel across borders.

Current Pet Travel Framework for UK to EU Journeys

The previous EU Pet Travel Scheme, which allowed British pets to use UK-issued pet passports for travel, has been replaced. Since 2021, UK-issued pet passports are no longer valid for entry into the EU countries. Instead, pet owners must now obtain an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) issued by an official veterinarian.

The AHC is a bilingual 10-page document valid for one single trip and must be issued no more than 10 days before travel. Each new journey to the EU requires a freshly issued AHC, which can be a significant change from the previous indefinite-validity pet passports.

Essential Health and Identification Requirements

1. Microchipping: Your pet must be microchipped before or at the same time as their rabies vaccination. This ensures proper identification throughout the travel process.
2. Rabies Vaccination: Pets must receive a rabies vaccine at least 21 days before travel. This period may be longer if the vaccine’s datasheet specifies a longer immunity buildup time. Pets should be at least 12 weeks old before vaccination.
3. Rabies Antibody Titre Test: Some EU countries require pets to complete a blood test to check rabies antibody levels. This test must be undertaken at least 30 days after vaccination and at least 3 months before travel, especially if the animal is moving for long-term stays or relocation.
4. Tapeworm Treatment: Dogs travelling to certain countries (Malta, Finland, Ireland, Northern Ireland, Norway) must receive tapeworm treatment between 1 to 5 days before entering those countries.

Travel Entry Points and Transport Considerations

Pets must enter the EU through designated Travellers’ Points of Entry. Airlines and ferry operators also have their own updated pet travel policies, which may include specific requirements for carriers, seasonal restrictions, and booking procedures, so checking transport provider rules ahead of time is essential.

Planning Ahead: Costs and Veterinary Preparation

Obtaining an Animal Health Certificate usually costs between £100 and £250 per certificate, depending on your vet and location. Because this document is valid for only one trip, pet owners should budget for the added cost if making multiple journeys.

Ideally, start planning four to six months before travel to allow time for any necessary vaccinations, tests, and treatments. Early veterinary consultation is key to avoid last-minute surprises or delays.

Potential Changes and Future Outlook

There are ongoing negotiations between the UK and EU to reinstate a UK-EU pet passport, which would simplify pet travel by removing the need to repeatedly acquire AHCs. However, as of mid-2025, no official timeline exists for this change.

Meanwhile, pet owners must comply with current rules to ensure smooth travel. Staying updated through official government and veterinary sources is recommended.

Summary: 2025 UK to EU Pet Travel Checklist

• Obtain an Animal Health Certificate from an official vet within 10 days before your trip.
• Ensure your pet is microchipped prior to or at the time of rabies vaccination.
• Complete rabies vaccination at least 21 days before travelling.
• Check if your destination country requires a rabies antibody titre test.
• Provide dogs travelling to tapeworm-free countries with required tapeworm treatment 1 to 5 days before entry.
• Enter the EU through designated travellers’ points of entry.
• Confirm pet travel policies with airlines or ferry companies in advance.
• Inform your vet and arrange vaccinations, tests, and paperwork well ahead.

Travel with your pet can be rewarding and worry-free when you understand these new requirements and take proactive steps to ensure compliance. For anyone planning EU trips with pets from the UK, consulting your local vet and government guidance will provide the best personalised support.

If you are considering adding a new pet to your family before travelling, remember to find your puppy or kitten responsibly from reputable breeders and check for valid health documentation. Responsible ownership helps safeguard your pet’s wellbeing on every journey.