Pet passport and the UK Pet Travel Scheme explained

Post-Brexit, the UK operates the Pet Travel Scheme (PETS) rather than the EU Pet Passport system. Taking a pet abroad now requires different documentation.

To take a dog, cat or ferret to an EU country or Northern Ireland

1. Microchipping (required before or at the same time as rabies vaccination)
2. Rabies vaccination
3. Wait 21 days after the rabies vaccination
4. Animal Health Certificate (AHC) — issued by an Official Veterinarian within 10 days of travel

To return to the UK

Dogs must be treated for tapeworm (Echinococcus) by a vet 1–5 days before arrival in the UK. This has been a requirement since Brexit.

Key points

The old EU pet passport is no longer valid for entry into Great Britain from the EU. An AHC is required for each trip. The AHC is valid for one journey (4 months for onward EU travel from first entry). Start planning 6–8 weeks before intended travel.

Track your pet's vaccinations with our free pet vaccination record.