Pet Travel from the UK to non-EU Countries

The guidelines for pet travel from the UK to non-EU countries can vary depending on the destination country. Majority of countries require an Export Health Certificate (EHC) to be completed by an Official Veterinarian (OV). 

It is the pet owners responsibility to find out the requirements of the destination country and ensure they have everything they need to be eligible to travel. For many countries the pet will need a rabies vaccination, then the owner needs to register as an exporter, apply for the export certificate and then nominate the veterinary practice to be sent the documents to complete. This can be done here.

For more information about pet travel to non-EU countries contact APHA (Animal and Plant Health Agency) via email exports@apha.gov.uk or call on 03000 200 301 (Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 5:00pm)

Requirements for Pet Owners Planning to Travel:

Export Certification:

  • Certify as an exporter through the UK's Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA).

  • Submit required documentation, including appropriate health certificates and vaccination records if required by importing country. 

  • Nominate your veterinary practice as the Official Veterinarian to be sent the documents

Microchipping:

  • Ensure your pet has a compliant 15-digit ISO microchip.

  • Ensure your contact details are updated on the microchip database.


Rabies Vaccination:

  • Ensure your pet has an up to date rabies vaccination.

  • Check destination-specific requirements for rabies vaccinations, some countries require it annually some will allow a 3-yearly vaccine.

Rabies Titre Blood Test:

  • Some countries require a blood test to ensure rabies vaccine titres have reached the desired antibody level. 

  • Ensure this is tested within the correct time frame prior to travel.

Additional Vaccinations and Health Checks:

  • Confirm any extra vaccinations required. This will differ with each country, check local guidelines for this.

Parasite Control:

  • Administer tick, flea, and internal parasite treatments as required in correct time frame prior to travel. Requirements will differ, check local guidelines for this.

  • Ensure appropriate documentation is completed for this

Import Permits and Documentation:

  • Research and secure necessary import permits, local governments may need to provide these.

Travel Crates:

  • Use an IATA-approved crate suited to your pet and familiarise your pet with the crate beforehand.

Quarantine Regulations:

  • Be aware of quarantine requirements in destination country. 

Prior to making an appointment for export travel paperwork to a non-EU country please ensure you have done the following:

  • Provided the clinic with your up-to-date contact information including: full name, address, phone number, email. 

  • Provided the clinic with the correct information for your pet including: pet’s name, breed, coat colour, date of birth, microchip number, last rabies vaccination date and expiry date of the vaccine.

  • Provided the clinic with your date of travel and destination.

Consider using a pet transport service to assist with the export application process.

Safe travels for you and your furry friend!

For any questions or assistance the exporting process, feel free to contact Hill City Vets. We're here to make your pet's journey safe and stress-free.

Contact Us | Learn More about APHA

Please be aware it is the owners responsibility to provide Hill City Vets with all correct and up-to-date information about their pet in order to issue any travel paperwork. If we have to reissue any paperwork due to an error in provision of information there will be an administrative fee for this. Please be aware if EHCs have to be reissued this may delay your travel plans.