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Bringing Pets To The UK

The relocation process for people that want to move to the UK can be complicated, especially when relocating with pets. There are many things you should know before bringing pets to the UK .

For example, the UK is considered a rabies-free country and therefore, the pet import requirements should be strictly followed.

The following article will help pet owners understand the rules and requirements for importing a pet into the UK .

Pet Microchip

Your pet must be microchipped before or at the same time they get their rabies vaccination. If your pet got microchipped after the rabies vaccination, they’ll need to be vaccinated again.

The microchip must meet the ISO 11784 and 11785 standards. If your pet’s microchip doesn’t meet the ISO standards, you may have to bring your own microchip reader. Your pet could be refused entry or placed in quarantine if its microchip can’t be read.

Tattoos are accepted if your pet was tattooed on or before July 3, 2011, the tattoo is visible and your pet was vaccinated against rabies after it was tattooed.

Vaccinations Needed To Bring Your Pet To The UK

All dogs and cats require a veterinary confirmation that they have been vaccinated against rabies before entering the UK.

When should the rabies vaccine be given?

• At least 21 days before entering the UK – if your pet is coming from a country that the UK accepts pet passports from and from a listed country. The list of these countries can be found here .
• At least 4 months before entering the UK – if your pet is coming from an unlisted country (such as Israel).

It is important to note that the pet shouldn’t get the vaccine before turning 12 weeks old.

Boosters – pet owners must get their pets’ booster vaccinations on time. If missed, even by 1 day, the pet will need to be revaccinated and the process will begin all over again.

Most dogs should be treated against tapeworm. The treatment must contain praziquantel and it should be done no less than 24 hours and no more than 120 hours (5 days) before your pet enters the UK.

Pet owners don’t need to treat their dog for tapeworm if they are coming directly to the UK from Finland, Ireland, Malta or Norway.

Cats don’t need to be treated against tapeworm, no matter where they are coming from.

Rabies Antibody Titer Test – 3 Months In Advance!

If you’re travelling to the UK from an unlisted country, a blood sample should be taken from all dogs and cats at least 30 days after the rabies vaccination was given.

The blood sample must be taken by an approved veterinarian and the serological test should be tested in an approved laboratory.

The result should state that the rabies antibody level is equal to or greater than 0.5 IU/ml.

Your pet will only be able to enter the UK 3 months after the blood sample was taken.

The rabies blood test will continue to be valid as long as your renew your pet’s rabies vaccinations on time.

For more information, check out this article: https://www.pets2fly.com/en/rabies-titer-test/

Health Certificate

Pets entering the UK must be accompanied by an official veterinary health certificate (non-commercial or commercial). The health certificate should be endorsed by a government veterinarian in the country of origin.

If you are bringing a dog to the UK , you’ll need to do the health certificate within 5 days of your dog’s arrival.

On the other hand, if you are bringing a cat into the UK, the health certificate could be done within 10 days of your cat’s arrival.

Dangerous & Banned Breeds In The UK

The following breeds and crosses can’t be imported into the UK:

• Pit Bull Terrier
• Japanese Tosa
• Dogo Argentino
• Fila Braziliero

Exemptions can only be authorised at the discretion of the courts once a dog has been seized in the UK.

Entering The UK With A Pet

Bringing pets to the UK by air can only be done as manifested cargo, on certain travel routes and companies.

Once entering the UK, you will only be able to collect your pet after it has been taken through customs (could take about 6-8 hours). You must pay an agent, travel company or airline to do this for you.

Quarantine In The UK

There is no mandatory quarantine in the UK.

Your cat, dog or ferret will be checked when it arrives in the UK. If it doesn’t meet the pet travel rules, you will need to choose one of the following:

• Placing your pet in quarantine
• Sending your pet back to the country it travelled from
• Have your pet put down

The owner/importer will need to pay all the fees and charges that will occur.

Importing A Pet Into The UK – FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about importing a pet into the UK:

Question #1 : Can I take a small pet with me in-cabin to the UK?

Unfortunately, you can’t. Pets may only fly into the UK as manifest cargo.

Question #2 : How can I shorten the process when coming from an unlisted country?

The UK has strict pet import requirements. There is no legal way to shorten the process.

Question #3 : I have a Pitbull. Can you assist me?

Pitbulls are banned from being imported into the UK. Unfortunately, we won’t be able to assist you.

Question #4 : I have an emotional support dog. Can I bring it with me in-cabin?

Emotional support dogs aren’t recognised as assistance dogs by the following organisations and therefore, won’t be allowed to travel in-cabin:

• Assistance Dogs International
• International Guide Dog Federation

Question #5 : Is taking pets to the UK expensive?

Importing a pet into the UK isn’t cheap. It isn’t cheap because your pet will need to travel as manifest cargo.

Need Help Bringing Pets To The UK?

The UK can be a perfect spot to start a new life, progress in your career and experience a new culture.

Relocating to the UK with pets could be the biggest and best adventure of your life, but only if you do everything right.

Bringing pets to the UK isn’t simple and therefore, we highly recommend you take a professional pet relocation service to assist you throughout the process.

If you have any questions, go ahead and contact us at any time!

We would love to hear from you!

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Travelling with pets

We know your pets are part of your family, which is why we treat every animal who flies with us like a VIP.

British Airways flights

Emotional support dogs

British Airways is unable to accept emotional support dogs for travel in the cabin on any British Airways operated flights. Your emotional support dog can travel as a pet and details on how to arrange this can be found below.

Service dogs

If you’re travelling with a recognised service dog, it can travel with you free of charge in the cabin of your British Airways flight. This service cannot be booked online and we might need to limit the number of dogs we can carry in the cabin.

From the UK

We’ve partnered with PetAir UK, which is run and owned by fully-qualified veterinary surgeons and has been flying pets all over the world since 2004, to offer British Airways customers a safe, comfortable and convenient way to export their pets from the UK.

If you are looking to transport your pet to the UK, our sister company IAG Cargo can help. They have decades of experience transporting animals from every corner of the globe and will look after your pet as if it were their own.

Pet Travel Scheme

If you're entering the UK, your dog must meet the requirements of the Pet Travel Scheme offered by the UK Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA). It allows cats and dogs to travel between some countries and UK airports avoiding quarantine.

If you're travelling to a different country, please check with the relevant embassy or consulate for any regulations or restrictions.

SUN-AIR flights

SUN-AIR is our franchise partner operating flights within Europe under the British Airways brand. As on British Airways operated flights, recognised service dogs are allowed in the cabin, as well as other pets up to 6kg.

• Other pets must be transported in a waterproof bag or cage, with maximum dimensions of 20 x 30 x 20cm (7.5 x 11.5 x 7.5in).
• It is the owners’ responsibility to ensure that all documentation and animal passports are in order before departure.
• SUN-AIR permits one pet on board each aircraft at one time.

Please contact the SUN-AIR ticket office on +45 75 33 16 11 no later than 72 hours before departure if you wish to bring your pet on a SUN-AIR operated flight. Please note that pets are not permitted on SUN-AIR flights to the United Kingdom.

• MORE Rabbits & Furry Friends Fish Horses Other Pets Random Article
• Rabbits & Furry Friends

How to Ship a Pet to the UK

Last Updated: January 5, 2023 References

This article was co-authored by Pippa Elliott, MRCVS . Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years. There are 8 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 163,843 times.

Due to fears of rabies and other animal diseases, the UK has some of the strictest pet quarantine laws in the world. If you are shipping a pet to the UK, you will need to get the necessary tests and treatments for your pet, obtain the necessary documentation, and find a reputable transport company. Thanks to the UK Pet Travel Scheme (PETS), your pet will not need to fulfill a six month quarantine period as long as you have fulfilled these requirements. [1] X Research source

Getting the Necessary Tests and Vaccines

• Keep in mind microchips do not act as GPS devices or tracking devices for your pet. Instead, they contain a radio-frequency identification that acts as a permanent ID for your pet. The microchip procedure is painless for your pet and can be done at your vet’s office. [2] X Research source
• Not all microchips use the same reader. To ensure the chip can be read, you can purchase one that is compatible with the chip, or you can ask your vet what type of chip has been implanted and then contact the UK DEFRA organization to see if the readers are compatible. If the chip cannot be read, you pet will likely be put into quarantine.

• Once your vet gives your pet the rabies vaccine, you will need to wait 21 days from the day after your pet received the vaccine to make arrangements for your pet to enter the UK.

• The treatment must be approved for use in the country in which it’s being given.
• If your dog has tapeworm, your veterinarian should apply the treatment for tapeworm no more than five days before your pet is scheduled to be shipped to the UK, and the treatment should be recorded on your pet’s health certificate to show he has been treated for tapeworm.

Obtaining the Necessary Documentation

• Your pet should travel within 10 days of the certificate being issued. The certificate is valid for four months if your pet does any more travelling within the UK. The certificate will be reviewed and stamped by an official when your pet first enters the UK.

• The details of ownership, including the full owner name(s).
• A full description of the animal.
• Any identifications of the animal, such as the microchip information.
• Confirmation of vaccination against rabies, as well as rabies blood tests.
• Confirmation of tapeworm treatment, if applicable.

• A blank UK declaration form for pets can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/393123/declaration-non-commercial-movement.pdf .

Finding an Approved Transport Company

• A list of approved routes under the Pet Travel Scheme can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/pet-travel-approved-air-sea-rail-and-charter-routes-for-the-movement-of-pets .
• Keep in mind if you are travelling with more than five pets or planning to ship more than five pets at once, you will need to comply with additional rules and guidelines. Ask the transport company about the guidelines around shipping multiple pets at once.

• Once your pet arrives in the UK, airport staff will scan your pet’s microchip and examine your pet’s travel documentation. If your pet does not have the required travel documentation or has not received the required vaccines for travel to the UK, he may be held in quarantine or sent back to his country of origin.
• As the pet owner, you are responsible for the quarantine fee (usually £300/month for dogs and £200/month for cats) for your pet. The UK has a mandatory six month quarantine period for pets who do not fall under the UK Pet Travel Scheme. [11] X Research source

Expert Q&A

Things You'll Need

• EU pet passport or 3rd country official veterinary certificate EU form 998
• A microchip for your pet
• A rabies vaccine
• Tapeworm treatment (for dogs)
• A health certificate for your pet
• A pet passport
• A completed declaration form
• A reputable transport company

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.justlanded.com/english/United-Kingdom/UK-Guide/Visas-Permits/Pets
• ↑ https://www.petfinder.com/dogs/lost-and-found-dogs/microchip-faqs/
• ↑ https://www.gov.uk/take-pet-abroad
• ↑ https://www.gov.uk/take-pet-abroad/tapeworm-treatment-dogs
• ↑ https://www.gov.uk/take-pet-abroad/pet-passport
• ↑ https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/pet-travel-declaration-for-the-non-commercial-movement-of-animals
• ↑ https://www.gov.uk/take-pet-abroad/approved-routes
• ↑ https://www.gov.uk/take-pet-abroad/coming-back-to-the-uk

About this article

To ship a pet to the UK, make sure that it’s fitted with a microchip by your vet to ensure that it will be properly identified once it reaches the UK. Additionally, have your pet vaccinated for rabies and treated for tapeworms 21 days before making arrangements for it to enter the UK. Then, obtain a health certificate from your vet within 10 days of your travel date. You’ll also need to ask your vet to issue a passport for your pet, or refer you to a veterinarian who’s able to do so. For more advice from our Veterinary co-author, including how to find a UK approved transport company, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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International & Connection Pet Travel

* For aircraft that have only one class cabin, a maximum of 4 kennels per aircraft is allowed. **Live animals are prohibited on all flights operating outside of the U.S. except Canada. To make sure your pet is taken care of, prior arrangements are necessary with all the carriers involved. If a pet has to transfer from a Delta flight to a Delta Connection, the Delta flight must be confirmed at least 48 hours before the scheduled departure time of the Delta Connection flight. That way we have enough time to make transfer arrangements between the two carriers and ensure your pet is safely delivered. Find More Information on Shipping Your Pet  »

Pets to Hawaii

Though Hawaii is part of the United States, Hawaii takes extra care when bringing live animals into the state due to its unique ecosystems. Hawaii requires that all live animals shipped or brought into the state have health and rabies inoculation certificates dated no more than 10 days before travel begins. On Delta flights to Hawaii, pets will not be accepted as carry-on baggage.

Please note, Hawaiian quarantine facilities are located in Honolulu only; therefore, Delta cannot accept pets on nonstop flights to any other Hawaiian city. Delta does not participate in the Neighbor Island Dog and Cat Entry Program. Also as of October 1, 2016, Delta and Delta Cargo will no longer accept warm blooded animals on flights with an average flight time of greater than 12 hours. 

Hawaii Quarantines

All cats and dogs are subject to a 120-day quarantine in Hawaii. If specific pre- and post-arrival requirements are met, your pet may qualify for a shorter (30-days or less) quarantine. Costs are charged to the pet owner and must be paid in full upon arrival. Payment methods include cashier's check, traveler's check, money order, personal check, or cash.

Seeing-eye dogs (and other service animals) are accepted with certain provisions, including making advanced arrangements and verifying availability and cost. For further information, visit the Hawaii Department of Agriculture or call 808-483-7151 .

International Pet Travel

If you’re traveling internationally with your pet, be prepared by knowing the strict regulations governing international pet travel. Remember to make arrangements in advance and note that Delta and Delta Cargo  have a temporary embargo on all pet shipments effective until further notice. The embargo applies to all live, household animals (small dogs, cats and household birds) transported in the cargo hold underneath the aircraft throughout the domestic and international network. Exceptions apply for customers traveling with service animals and those in the U.S. Military or U.S. State Department Foreign Service Offices .

Take these steps before traveling to be fully prepared:

• Contact the embassy or consulate of the destination country to determine pet travel regulations
• Obtain all necessary paperwork (such as health certificates and documentation ) regarding your pet's travel
• Contact your local veterinarian to ensure your pet is in compliance with foreign health regulations
• Check with the CDC about the importation of pets into the United States
• Check with APHIS about international animal export regulations
• Terminal handling charges, customs clearance fees, veterinarian service, and/or kennel storage fees are in addition to shipping rates and will be charged to the shipper or pet owner upon arrival at destination airport
• All fees and charges must be paid in full prior to the release of your pet

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a temporary ban on dogs traveling from Egypt for the protection of public health.  The CDC will review this suspension periodically and Delta will provide updates as they become available.  To ensure the protection and safety of our customers and their animals, Delta will place a temporary embargo on pet travel to and from Egypt.

When traveling to or from the United Kingdom, Delta will not accept any live animals as checked or carry-on baggage. 

For pets traveling in the cabin to the Republic of Ireland, customers must notify the Department of Agriculture in advance at [email protected] , opens in a new window . Find additional information at the Republic of Ireland Pet Travel Portal .

For pets traveling to or from other countries in the European Union, a Veterinary Certificate for domestic dogs, cats, and ferrets entering the European Community for Non-Commercial Movement (Regulation (EC) No. 998/2003) is required. There is also another restriction concerning your pet. Only a microchip implant, and no longer tattoos, will be accepted as a means of identification. If your travel originates in Aruba, Bermuda, Canada, Japan, Cayman Islands, or the USA, parts 1 through 4 must be completed for movement into the European Union and requires 30 days of preparation for your pet. If your travel originates in any other country, parts 1 through 5 must be completed. These regulations require a minimum of four months preparation for your pet.

Service Dogs Traveling to London (Heathrow & Gatwick) or Manchester

Delta will transport service dogs to London (Heathrow & Gatwick) and Manchester with the proper documentation and compliance to the UK regulations for transporting animals.  In order for a customer to transport their service dog, they must:

• Contact the appropriate Animal Reception Center in the city they are traveling to for more information and instruction on what will be needed to enter the United Kingdom.  After booking, customers must contact the Animal Reception Center directly to plan for the arrival of their pet and to ensure that all necessary paperwork is completed in advance for the UK Customs clearance of your service dog.
• Provide a pre-approval letter from the Animal Reception Center in the city you are traveling to, indicating that your service dog has the appropriate documentation, has met the appropriate health requirements and has the proper micro-chip implant.  Delta will ask for this documentation in order to process your request for transport of your service dog.  Failure to present this pre-approval letter will result in denial of the service dog until the letter is provided.
• Pay all appropriate fees and charges related to UK acceptance of service dogs. A current list of charges can be provided by the Animal Reception Center for the city you are traveling to.  For more information, please contact one of the appropriate Animal Reception Centers listed below.

For questions regarding transporting a service dog, please contact Delta at 1-800-221-1212 and ask to speak to the CRO Desk.

CRO Desk at Airport

Pets are not allowed in the cabin or as accompanied or excess baggage to/from Hong Kong. Special permit/import permit or quarantine permit is required for all animals and birds (including dogs & cats) applied before arrival in Hong Kong and they must be shipped as cargo covered by an air bill.

Pets are not allowed as checked baggage to or from South Africa due to concerns of animal safety and customs regulations. This restriction does not apply to service animals. South Africa recognizes service dogs and allows them in the cabin. All animals must travel as manifested cargo on an air waybill. Military exceptions do not apply.

Australian law does not allow pets as carry on or checked baggage. The only exception is for Service Animals   with correct documentation. All pets must enter or depart via cargo.

New Zealand law does not allow pets as carry on or checked baggage. The only exception is Service Animals   with correct documentation. All pets must enter or depart via cargo.

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Operating landslide-airside services on behalf of major airlines means we are trusted to deliver the highest standards in animal safety and travel compliance.

Together we are an experienced team of pet travel consultants, veterinarians and animal handlers – here to give you peace of mind over your pets travel experience. 

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What is The Pet Travel Scheme (PETS)? [2023 GUIDE]

What is better than going on holiday? Going on holiday with your beloved furry friend!

Under the Pet Travel Scheme (PETS), you are able to bring your dog, cat or ferret abroad with you. Regularly, it is wrongly assumed that pets must endure a painful length quarantine period when going abroad. However, with a Pet Passport, under the PETS your pet can travel through certain borders with ease. Generally, pets will require a microchip and a rabies vaccination to qualify for travel. However, different countries have additional requirements when it comes to importing and exporting pets. 

In this article we will discuss the Pet Travel Scheme in detail.

Table of contents:

What is the Pet Travel Scheme?

• What are the requirements to comply with the Pet Passport Scheme?

What countries are included in the Pet Travel Scheme?

• What are the requirements for the UK Pet Travel Scheme?

Which countries are exempt from quarantine under the Pets Travel Scheme?

When was the pet travel scheme introduced, what if my pet doesn’t pass the requirements for the pet travel scheme, what is the most common reason for failing requirements for the pets, can my puppy or kitten travel with me, are tattoos an acceptable form of identification, is there a limit to the number of animals that can travel under the care of one person.

The Pet Travel Scheme (PETS) is a system which allows animals to travel easily between member countries without undergoing quarantine . A pet passport is a document that officially records information related to a specific animal, as part of that procedure. The effect is to drastically speed up and simplify travel with and transport of animals between member countries, compared to previous procedures if the regulations are followed.

What are the requirements to comply with the Pet Travel Scheme?

ALL COUNTRIES

Most countries require the following to qualify for travel:

• Microchipping – all dogs, cats and ferrets must have a microchip implant. A microchip is a permanent method of electronic identification. The chip, around the size of a grain of rice, is implanted subcutaneously (just under the skin) between the shoulder blades at the back of your pet’s neck. Each chip has a unique number that is detectable with a microchip scanner. 
• Rabies vaccination – all dogs, cats and ferrets must be vaccinated against rabies. This procedure is mandatory even if your pet already has a current rabies vaccination. In this case, your pet will need a rabies booster to keep them up to date. For pet travel in Europe, the rabies vaccine should be administered by a veterinarian with a minimum of 21 days before travel. Some countries may differ and always check with your local veterinarian for the procedures to follow.

SOME COUNTRIES

Some countries require the following to be permitted for entry:

• Tapeworm, tick and flea treatment – some countries require animals to be treated for ticks, fleas and tapeworms before boarding the outbound transport. There is usually a time restriction when it comes to administering these treatments. For example, a tapeworm treatment must be administered between 24 hours and 5 days before entering the UK, Ireland, Finland, Norway or Malta.
• Additional vaccinations – some countries will require additional vaccinations, such as those against distemper, parainfluenza, leptospirosis, parvovirus, bordetella and hepatitis.
• Rabies blood test – some countries need evidence that your pet’s rabies vaccination is working by taking a rabies blood test (also known as Rabies Titer Test). Your pet’s blood sample will be taken by a vet and send to an approved laboratory for testing. Your pet’s blood must contain at least 0.5 IU/ml of the rabies antibody. Normally, you will then need to wait 3 months before traveling.
• Health certificate – many countries require a veterinarian’s letter or certificate confirming that your pet is fit and healthy to travel and has no obvious signs of disease.
• Government certification – in some cases, you will need to get health certificates approved. For example, all animals leaving the US must have their health certificates endorsed by the USDA .

In some countries, the formal passport is needed. However, others will accept documentation in any form so long as it provides clear evidence of the procedure being followed.

Requirements vary widely between countries, so it is best to check those for your destination country before traveling with your pet.

In the next section we will discuss which countries are included in the Pet Travel Scheme, making it easier to travel.

With an EU Pet Passport, dogs, cats and ferrets can travel freely within the EU, and some non-EU countries without quarantine.  The countries in each category are listed below.

EUROPEAN UNION (EU) COUNTRIES AND TERRITORIES

* When traveling to UK, Ireland, Finland, Norway or Malta, dogs must have a tapeworm treatment within 24 hours to 120 hours (1-5 days) of entry.

** Includes St Barthelemy and St Martin (French part of the island)

LISTED NON-EU COUNTRIES

* The Russian Federation consists of 88 subjects (regions). Please note that the following Republics are not part of the Russian Federation: Moldova, Georgia, Ukraine, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan.

** The UAE consists of Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Al Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, and Al Fujairah.

*** Formally known as the Netherland Antilles. The BES Islands are Bonair, Saint Eustatius and Saba.

**** The mainland United States of America as well as American Samoa, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands.

UNLISTED COUNTRIES

An unlisted country is any country not listed above.

These countries have not applied or been accepted for listed status because of higher rabies incidence or less robust veterinary or administrative systems. The rules for taking your pets to these countries, or returning to the EU from these countries are different than they are for EU member states and listed countries.

What are the requirements for the UK Pet Travel Scheme

Traveling to the UK from an EU or listed non-EU country

When traveling to the UK from an EU or listed non-EU country, your pet will need the following:

• A microchip – this is the first procedure you should consider. A microchip has a number unique to your pet and will help authorities to properly identify them. You must get this first, as a rabies vaccination is invalidated without a microchip number attached to it. If you get your pet’s rabies vaccination before getting a microchip, it will not count.
• date of birth/age
• microchip number
• when and where the microchip was inserted
• vaccination date and product name
• date its booster vaccination is due
• batch number
• Tapeworm treatment – before entering the UK, all pet dogs (including assistance dogs) must be treated for tapeworm. The treatment must be administered by a vet not less than 24 hours and not more than 120 hours (1–5 days) before its scheduled arrival time in the UK. (There is no mandatory requirement for tick treatment. No treatment is required for dogs entering the UK from Finland, Ireland or Malta).
• To travel with an approved transport company on an authorised route – your pet must travel with companies and on routes that have been approved by the Animal and Plant Health Agency (previously known as the Animal Health and Laboratories Agency). In case of pets travelling by plane, the company may assign those checks to a third party, i.e. the Animal Reception Centre at Heathrow airport.
• List of authorised carriers and routes can be found here .

There may be some additional requirements if you are traveling to the UK from an unlisted non-EU country. Please refer to the section below if you are travelling from an unlisted. non-EU country.

Traveling to the UK from an unlisted non-EU country

When traveling to the UK from an unlisted non-EU country your pet will need the following:

• A microchip – this is the first procedure which you need to consider. The microchip will help authorities to properly identify your pet. You must get this first, as a rabies vaccination is invalid without a microchip number attached to it. If you get your pet’s rabies vaccination before getting a microchip, it will not count.
• date its immunisation vaccination is due
• Rabies blood test / rabies titer test certificate – all dogs, cats and ferrets must have passed a rabies blood test to show that their rabies vaccination was successful. Your veterinarian must take your pets blood and send it off to an EU Approved Laboratory . Your pet’s blood sample must show at least 0.5 IU/ml of the rabies antibody. You must then wait 3 months from the date the successful blood sample was taken before you are permitted to travel.
• Tapeworm treatment – before entering the UK, all dogs must be treated against tapeworm. This even applies to dogs who reside in the UK and are returning from being abroad. The treatment must be administered by a vet between 24 hours and 120 hours (1–5 days) before your scheduled arrival time in the UK. (No treatment is required for dogs entering the UK from Finland, Ireland or Malta).
• 10 days after the date of issue for entry into the EU
• onward travel within the EU for 4 months after the date of issue
• re-entry to the UK for 4 months after the date of issue
• To travel with an approved transport company on an authorised route – your pet must travel with companies and on routes that have been approved by the Animal and Plant Health Agency (previously known as the Animal Health and Laboratories Agency). List of authorised carriers and routes can be found here .

Make sure your vet gives you copies of all of your pet’s veterinary treatments and vaccinations certificates. They must all contain the date of treatment.

Can I fly with a dog to the UK?

Yes, but only under specific circumstances.

British law bans all animals entering the UK either in the airplane cabin or as ‘checked or ‘excess’ baggage. Therefore, your pet (except guide dogs*) will need to travel in the aircraft hold as manifest cargo. Unfortunately many airlines do not offer cargo services, so quite often specialist pet travel agents must be used.

Furthermore, there are very strict rules when it comes to the carrier or crate that your pet travels in. You must ensure that the container is International Air Transport Association (IATA) approved. There are strict rules regarding the material, size and construction of the crate. You can find full details here .

UK law does not prohibit the transport of pets in the cabin or as hold baggage when departing from the UK. However, restrictions may be imposed by individual airlines or destination countries.

Pets traveling between EU and listed non-EU countries

Pets traveling between EU and listed non-EU countries can travel freely without enduring a length quarantine. This is as long as they comply with the Pet Travel Scheme requirements (microchip and rabies vaccination). For more details on the requirements, check the ‘What are the requirements to comply with the Pet Travel Scheme?’ section above.

This is as long as pets are transported by an authorised travel carrier on an authorised route. More information on authorised carriers and routes can be found here .

For information on how to get an EU Pet Passport, check  How to get an EU Pet Passport .

Pets traveling to an EU country from an unlisted country

When traveling from an unlisted country to a listed country, your pet will be able to avoid quarantine as long as you follow the EU entry requirements (microchip, rabies vaccination, blood sample at least 30 days after vaccination). You will then wait a further three months after the blood sample was taken. For more details on entry requirements, check the ‘What are the requirements to comply with the Pet Travel Scheme?’ section above.

This is as long as pets are transported by an authorised travel company on an authorised route. More information on authorised carriers and routes can be found here .

Pets traveling to or between unlisted countries

When traveling between non-listed countries, it gets a little more complicated as each country can have different entry requirements. We recommend that you check for your specific destination country, if it isn’t listed above.

The Pet Travel Scheme was initially set up in 2000 as a control measure to prevent rabies, ticks and other diseases from entering the UK. Prior to this, the UK was known for having very tough checks to protect against rabies. Bringing pets to the UK meant serving an obligatory 6 month quarantine period. Over time the program has rolled out to other countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

The Pet Travel Scheme has gone through many changes since 2000, making it easier for pets to travel to the UK, to EU countries and other listed non-EA countries (see more information below). Changes to the scheme introduced in January 2012 revoked the need for dogs to be treated against ticks. This change reduced the length of time after vaccination that a dog may enter the UK from six months to 21 days. Secondly, dogs are now required to have their tapeworm treatment between 24 hours and 5 days before travel, administered by a certified vet. Lastly, there is no longer a requirement to blood test a dog before travel.

A new requirement was introduced in December 2014, meaning that all dogs, cats and ferrets must be at least 12 weeks old before they can be vaccinated against rabies for the purposes of pet travel.

Frequently Asked Questions [FAQs]

When re-entering the UK, DEFRA may perform an inspection of your pet’s pet passport. If any element of your pet's passport or electronic microchip fails, your pet risks being re-exported or placed in quarantine at the owner’s expense.

Issues with dog's tapeworm treatment account for most of the failures. Most commonly, pet owners fail to arrange treatment within the defined timeframe.

Pets must be at least 15 weeks old to travel. Firstly, they must have been vaccinated on or after 12 weeks of age. They must then wait 21 days before they can travel.

Tattoos can be accepted as a valid form of identification, in lieu of a microchip, as long as the tattoo was applied to the pet before 3 July 2011. The tattoo must be clearly readable and matched to the number in the passport/third country certificate.

One individual can travel with a maximum of five dogs, cats or ferrets, in total. Ten pets travelling with two people is acceptable as long as one of the people is an adult. The owner named in the passport must travel with the pets. Alternatively an authorised person can accompany the pets as long as they have a document from the owner named in the passport authorising them to accompany up to five owned pets.

• How to get a US Pet Passport 
• How to get an EU Pet Passport
• How Much Does a Dog Passport Cost in the UK?

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Importing Cats to Canada [2023 Requirements, Processes & Cost]

Bringing Pets to Japan [Pet Passport 2023 Guide]

Importing Cats to Singapore [Pet Passport Guide 2023]

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Egypt Pet Transport: Comprehensive Guide to Importing Pets to Egypt

What to know about bringing dogs and cats to egypt, planning your pet's journey to egypt.

Relocating your beloved pets to Egypt requires careful planning and attention to detail. To ensure a smooth and stress-free journey, it's crucial to familiarize yourself with the pet import rules and requirements set forth by Egyptian authorities. This comprehensive guide provides valuable information on bringing dogs and cats to Egypt, including necessary paperwork, vaccinations, and government endorsements.

Contact PetRelocation for guidance if you're overwhelmed by shipping pets to Egypt. Our team of experts is here to help if needed!

Request Support

Key Requirements for Pet Transport to Egypt

Attention: This information will be used as general guidelines and may not be updated to meet the current requirements. Before you travel, contact the appropriate authorities for your destination country.

• Each pet shall be identified using a microchip. No other form of identification is acceptable. The microchip should comply with ISO Standard 11784 or Annex A to ISO Standard 11785.

Rabies Vaccination and Certificate

• All pets must have an original Rabies Certificate, which must state the microchip number, the date of inoculation, and the validity of the vaccination you obtain.
• This vaccine must be inactivated and must be administered more than 30 days and less than one year before the day of departure.

Additional Vaccines

• Dogs : Distemper, Hepatitis, Leptospirosis, Parvovirus (DHLP)
• Cats : Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus and Panleukopenia (FVRCP)

All vaccines must be administered between 21 days and one year before departure. Note: Additional vaccines may also be required -- please discuss this with your PetRelocation Specialist.

Vet Health Certificate (Form 7001)

• This is the standard Health Certificate to be filled out by your USDA-accredited veterinarian, and it must be issued within 10 days of the flight.

USDA Endorsements

The following documents must be sent to your local USDA for their approval. Please contact your PetRelocation Specialist to learn more about how to manage this process.

• Microchip Implantation Record
• Rabies Certificate
• Vet Health Certificate

Acclimating Your Pet to Travel

A crucial aspect of pet travel is helping your pet acclimate to the travel kennel in the weeks before the move. When pets feel comfortable in the crate, they are less anxious during the flight.

PetRelocation Support and Guidance

We understand that pet travel can be overwhelming, but rest assured, our team of PetRelocation experts is here to guide you every step of the way. From managing USDA endorsements to offering personalized support, we're committed to making your pet's journey as comfortable as possible.

If you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to contact PetRelocation for personalized support and guidance. We're here to help you and your furry family enjoy a safe and successful relocation to Egypt.

Pet Travel Stories

“Maegan responded to my every concern for the months leading up to my contract signing. It was her kindness that convinced me PetRelocation was the service I needed. ”

— Brittany

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Welcome to SaudiEmbassy.com

Egypt Embassy

This site is provided by the US Arab Chamber of Commerce in Washington D.C. to facilitate the certification and legalization of business documents from the embassy/consulate of Egypt.

Egypt Pet Regulations

Requirements to travel with pets or export live animals:.

• Health Certificate: You must obtain a Health Certificate for your pet from USDA. The certificate must be certified by US Department of State and EGypt Embassy in the United States.
• Vaccinations: The pet must be vaccinated for “Rabies” no sooner than 30 days prior to entry to Egypt. A rabies titer test is not required to enter Egypt from any country

Banned Animals

Birds, Invertebrates, tropical fish, reptiles, amphibia, mammals such as rodents and rabbits. Pet owners are recommended to seek further information from Egypt Embassy before traveling.

Egypt Embassy & Consulates

Washington, d.c..

3521 International Court NW Washington, D.C 20008 Tel: 202.966.6342 [email protected]

New York, NY

866 United Nations Plaza, Suite 586 New York, NY 10017 Tel: 212.759.7120 [email protected]

Chicago, IL

180 N. Michigan Ave. , Suite 1150 Chicago, IL 60601 Tel: 312.332.7210, 312.332.7214 , 312.332.7216, 312.332.7217 [email protected]

Los Angeles, CA

180 N. Michigan Ave., Suite # 1150 Los Angeles, CA 90048 Tel: 323.933.9700 [email protected]

Houston, TX

718 Westheimer St., Suite # 1350 Suite 2180 Houston, TX 77057 Tel: 713.961.4915 [email protected]

Ottawa, Canada

454 Laurier Avenue, East Ottawa, Ontario K1N6R3 Tel: (613)234-4931, (613)234-4935 [email protected]

Montreal, Canada

1 Place Ville Marie, # 2617 , QUE H3B 4S3 Tel: (514) 866 84 55, 866 8456, 866 8457 [email protected]

International Embassies Location

Locations of egypt embassy and consulate around the world, egypt embassy or consulate located in, important links, travel in egypt, egyptian visa requirements, passport renewal, travelling with pets, egyptian citizenship and immigration, how to obtain the egyptian citizenship, approval for dual citizenship, how to retrieve egyptian citizenship, permits for foreign citizenship, immigration from egypt, please wait..., sub documents.

Pet travel webchat

Webchat can help with general pet travel requirements. If you have a specific question, call our helpline.

We are running the webchat as a trial, so we may ask you to provide feedback.

Webchat opening hours

• Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 5pm
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Pet travel guidance

• Bringing your pet dog, cat or ferret to Great Britain
• Taking your pet dog, cat or ferret abroad

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Warnings and insurance

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Areas where FCDO advises against travel

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against FCDO advice. Consular support is also severely limited where FCDO advises against travel.

Egypt-Libya border

FCDO advises against all travel to within 20km of the Egypt-Libya border, except for the town of El Salloum (where we advise against all but essential travel).

North Sinai

FCDO advises against all travel to the Governorate of North Sinai.

Northern part of South Sinai

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the northern part of the Governorate of South Sinai, beyond the St Catherine-Nuweibaa road, except for the coastal areas along the west and east of the peninsula.

The eastern part of Ismailiyah Governorate

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the Ismailiyah Governorate east of the Suez Canal.

Western Desert

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the area west of the Nile Valley and Nile Delta regions, except for:

• Luxor, Qina, Aswan, Abu Simbel and the Valley of the Kings
• the Governorate of Faiyum
• the coastal areas between the Nile Delta and Marsa Matruh
• the Marsa Matruh-Siwa Road
• the oasis town of Siwa
• the Giza Governorate north-east of the Bahariya Oasis
• the road between Giza and Farafra (but we advise against all but essential travel on the road between Bahariya and Siwa)
• Bahariya Oasis, Farafra, the White Desert and Black Desert

Hala’ib Triangle and Bir Tawil Trapezoid

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the Hala’ib Triangle and the Bir Tawil Trapezoid.

Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel .

Conflict in neighbouring Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPTs)

The Israeli government has declared a state of emergency across the whole country. International borders in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPTs) could close at short notice. As a result, the land border into Israel from Egypt at Taba could close with little notice. Check with local authorities and consult the travel advice for  Israel  and the  Occupied Palestinian Territories  before trying to cross the border.

In response to events in Israel and the OPTs, a number of demonstrations have taken place in Egypt and protests have been planned, including after Friday prayers. Demonstrations could take place at short notice, with a heavy security presence in place. You should avoid large gatherings, demonstrations and protests. See  Safety and security

Entering Egypt from Gaza

The Rafah border crossing partially opened on 1 November. This is primarily to facilitate the evacuation of seriously wounded Palestinians and some foreign nationals. We understand that the crossing will continue to be open for controlled and time-limited periods to allow specific groups of foreign nationals, including British nationals, to cross. It is for the Egyptian and Israeli authorities to determine who is permitted to cross, and when. The Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs will contact Embassies to let them know when their foreign nationals can cross. Should we receive notification from the Israeli and Egyptian authorities that individuals are permitted to cross, we will notify those people individually.

Movement to the Rafah crossing and beyond is at your own risk. You should only travel if you judge it is safe to do so. Check the  Israel and The Occupied Palestinian Territories travel advice.

The Egyptian authorities have said all aid going into Gaza from Egypt must be channelled through the Egyptian Red Crescent:

• telephone: + 20 226 703 979, + 20 226 703 983
• fax: + 20 226 703 967

They are unlikely to consider requests for humanitarian access made in Egypt at short notice.

Concern for friends and family

If you are concerned about friends or family, or need consular assistance call:

• British Embassy Cairo on + 20 (0)2 2791 6000
• +44 1767 667 600  (UK number) if you experience technical difficulties with the above number

Incidents in South Sinai  

On 27 October, an Egyptian Armed Forces spokesperson confirmed that an unidentified drone fell near a medical facility in the Egyptian Red Sea resort town of Taba next to the Israeli border, injuring six people. An additional unidentified drone also struck outside the town of Nuweiba, though no casualties have been confirmed. The authorities are conducting ongoing investigations.

Incident in Alexandria

On 8 October 2023, an Egyptian police officer is reported to have shot and killed two Israeli tourists and an Egyptian tour guide in Alexandria. A third tourist was injured. Remain vigilant and exercise caution at tourist and religious sites, as well as public gatherings. Find out more information on current risks on the  Safety and security .

Border crossings from Sudan

There are still people trying to cross the border into Egypt at Argeen and Qustul. Our ability to provide consular assistance is very limited.

If you are a British national and have crossed the border without valid documentation, contact the British Embassy in Cairo for consular assistance on + 20 (0)2 2791 6000.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide as well as support for British nationals abroad which includes:

• advice on preparing for travel abroad and reducing risks
• information for women, LGBT+ and disabled travellers

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

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