As of 22nd April 2026, the EU has introduced new rules and entry requirements for GB residents travelling to the EU with pets (dogs, cats and ferrets).
If you’re planning a European motorhome trip or campervan holiday with your pet, here’s all the updates you need to know for entering and exiting the EU with pets.
Image source: Kats – Adobe Stock
Are EU Pet Passports Still Valid in the UK?
If you live in England, Scotland, or Wales, EU pet passports are no longer valid for entering the EU. However, Northern Irish residents will still be able to use and obtain EU pet passports as they have ‘special status.’
GB residents who have an EU pet passport, will now need to use different documentation that’s up-to-date and valid when travelling to the EU with a pet. To ensure your pet documents are accepted and not contested GB residents will need to obtain a valid Animal Health Certificate (AHC).
Can I Use EU Pet Passports to Leave the EU?
Currently, GB residents are still able to use EU pet passports when re-entering the UK from the EU.
Image source: Alisha – Adobe Stock
What Is an Animal Health Certificate? (AHC)
An Animal Health Certificate is now the essential document you’ll need for travelling from Great Britain to the EU with your pet.
To obtain a valid AHC, it must be issued by a certified vet within 10 days of your travel date. Your pet must also have an up to date rabies vaccination. If your pet needs a rabies vaccination, you’ll need to wait for it to become effective before your AHC can be issued (this is usually at least 21 full days or more.)
Animal Health Certificates will be valid for entry into the EU within 10 days of being issued. Once you’ve entered the EU, they remain valid for up to 6 months for onward travel within the EU and for returning to Great Britain.
You can have up to 5 pets on your animal health certificate, however it is only single use, so a new certificate will need to be issued for each trip to the EU.
What documentation is needed to travel with pets to the EU from Great Britain?
If you’re planning to bring your pet along on your motorhome adventure, you’ll need proof of the following to enter the EU:
- Your pet has been microchipped
- Your pet has a valid rabies vaccination (check if a booster is required before travel)
- An Animal Health Certificate (AHC)
- Depending on the country you’re visiting tapeworm treatment may be required
As rules and requirements can vary between EU countries, it’s important to check the specific entry rules for your destination before you travel.
Image Source: nikopacheco – Adobe Stock
Can I Travel to the EU With Someone Else’s Pet?
If a non-owner is travelling with another person’s pet and the owner is not present, the non-owner must carry written permission given to them by the owner of the pet. The written permission must always be kept with the pet’s valid travel documents. Plus, the pet must travel within 5 days of its owner to the same destination.
What Is the New EU Pet Limit?
If classed as non-commercial travel into the EU, a limit of 5 pets per private vehicle (previously 5 per person) has now been put in place. Although, when travelling on foot, the 5 pets per person limit remains intact.
Exceptions may apply to pets who are travelling for reasons of competitions, events, or training (when specific conditions are also met).
Adobe Stock: Vane Nunes – Adobe Stock
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