EU pet passports may no longer be valid for travel from GB to the EU.
New EU rules have come into effect today (22 April) covering how British residents can travel to the EU with their pets.
Under the new rules, British residents should no longer use EU pet passports to travel with dogs, cats or ferrets into the EU. Instead, they should obtain an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) from a vet, which is only valid for a single journey.
A new AHC will be required for each trip from GB to the EU. However, the certificate can be used for up to six months for onward travel within the EU and for re‑entering Great Britain, as long as rabies vaccinations remain valid.
The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) said: “From 22 April, new EU rules change how GB residents travel to the EU with their pets, but holidays with your pets are still possible.
“Anyone planning to travel should check guidance on GOV.UK, and the entry rules for their destination.
"To avoid delays and ensure a smooth journey, pet owners residing in Great Britain should get an Animal Health Certificate if they’re travelling from Great Britain to an EU country.”
Under the new rules, additional paperwork will be required if someone other than the owner is travelling with the pet. The pet must travel within five days of the owner, and the person accompanying the pet must have written permission.
Travellers will also only be allowed to have a maximum of five pets in a private vehicle. Exceptions will apply for pets travelling to competitions, events or training.
Image (C) Reshetnikov_art/Shutterstock.
Companies marketing medicines for small pets exempt from authorisation must submit their annual return to the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) by 30 November 2026.
