Guides
Animal Health Certificates explained for UK pet owners
If you're travelling from Great Britain to the European Union with a pet, you'll need an Animal Health Certificate (AHC). Here's what it is and how to get one.
What is an AHC?
An AHC is an official document confirming that your dog, cat or ferret meets the EU's requirements for entry — chiefly microchipping and a valid rabies vaccination. It replaced the GB-issued pet passport for EU travel after Brexit.
Who can issue one?
Only an Official Veterinarian (OV) — a vet authorised by the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) — can issue an AHC for export from Great Britain. Not every vet is an OV, so check when you book.
When do I need to get it?
The AHC must be issued within 10 days before you enter the EU. You'll need to bring evidence of your pet's microchip and rabies vaccination history to the appointment.
How long is it valid?
- 10 days to enter the EU from the issue date
- 4 months for onward travel within the EU
- 4 months for re-entry to Great Britain
How much does it cost?
Prices vary by practice. Practices using NeoVet can offer transparent, flat per-certificate pricing with any number of animals included. Ask your vet what they charge when you book.
One certificate, one trip
A single AHC covers a whole trip — outbound, travel within the EU, and your return to GB — but you'll need a new one for each future visit. For a step-by-step list of what to do before you travel, read our pre-travel checklist.