Travel prep
The complete checklist before travelling to Europe with your pet
Travelling to the European Union with your dog, cat or ferret takes a little planning. Since Brexit, GB-issued pet passports are no longer valid for travel to the EU, so most pets now travel on an Animal Health Certificate (AHC). Work through this checklist in order — some steps have strict timing rules.
1. Microchip your pet
Your pet must be fitted with a compliant microchip before their rabies vaccination. If the chip is fitted after the vaccine, the vaccination won't count and will need to be done again.
2. Get a valid rabies vaccination
Your pet needs a primary rabies vaccination after the microchip is in place. You must then wait at least 21 days after the vaccination date before travelling. Keep boosters up to date — if a booster lapses, the clock resets and you'll need to wait 21 days again.
3. Book your Animal Health Certificate (AHC)
An AHC must be issued by an Official Veterinarian (OV) no more than 10 days before you enter the EU. Book your appointment to fall inside that window. Bring proof of microchipping and rabies vaccination. One AHC can cover up to five pets travelling together.
4. Tapeworm treatment (some countries)
If you're travelling with a dog directly to Finland, Ireland, Malta, Northern Ireland or Norway, it must be treated for tapeworm by a vet between 24 and 120 hours before arrival, and the treatment recorded.
5. Travel through an approved entry point
Enter the EU via a designated Travellers' Point of Entry, where officials may check your documents and your pet's microchip.
How long your AHC lasts
- 10 days from issue to enter the EU
- 4 months for onward travel within the EU
- 4 months for return to Great Britain
For each new trip to the EU you'll need a fresh AHC, but the same certificate covers your whole holiday and your return.
Quick pre-departure checklist
- Microchip fitted and working
- Rabies vaccination valid (and 21+ days old)
- AHC issued within the last 10 days
- Tapeworm treatment done (if required by your destination)
- Travel booked through an approved entry point
Your vet practice handles the AHC itself — if they use NeoVet, you'll simply fill in your details and travel plans online before the appointment, and the certificate is ready to sign on the day.