Which pet travel rules apply from Great Britain to the EU?

The April 2026 change affects which document to carry

GOV.UK advises Great Britain residents to get an animal health certificate for travel from Great Britain to an EU country. It says EU pet passports may be issued to people whose main home is in the EU. Older EU passports held by Great Britain residents may no longer be accepted. Source 3 Source 2

The vaccination wait comes before the certificate

The animal needs a microchip and valid rabies vaccination. For the first vaccination or initial course, GOV.UK sets a minimum wait of 21 full days and says some vaccines require longer. An official veterinarian signs the certificate after the applicable wait. Source 1 Source 2

Entry, onward travel and return use different clocks

The EU entry window is 10 days from issue, counting issue as day one. A certificate can cover onward EU travel on the same trip for up to six months after entry, and GOV.UK also lists six months for return to Great Britain. Keep the rabies vaccination valid. Source 2 Source 3

Some dogs need an additional treatment window

GOV.UK lists treatment for dogs entering Finland, Ireland or Malta and describes a window of 24 to 120 hours before arrival. Someone else accompanying the pet also needs the owner’s written permission and must meet the five-day travel rule. Source 4 Source 3

Sources

• GOV.UK taking a pet to an EU country
• GOV.UK animal health certificate rules
• GOV.UK update on April 2026 EU pet travel rules
• GOV.UK dog tapeworm travel treatment requirements