If you’re taking your dog, cat or ferret to Europe in 2026, there are important changes to the EU Pet Travel Scheme that affect owners living in Great Britain.
From 22nd April 2026, many pet owners resident in England, Scotland and Wales can no longer use previously issued EU pet passports for travel from Great Britain into the EU. This applies to EU pet passports issued in an EU Member State or Northern Ireland, including those issued before 22 April 2026.
In most cases, pets now need an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) for each trip.
This guide explains the new rules, what documents you need and how to prepare for stress-free travel with your pet.
Quick answer: What are the new EU pet travel rules for Great Britain in 2026?
If you live in Great Britain and want to travel with your pet to the EU:
- Existing EU pet passports may no longer be valid for outbound travel from Great Britain
- You will, in most cases, need an Animal Health Certificate (AHC)
- Your pet must be microchipped (and linked to the correct records)
- Your pet must have a valid rabies vaccination
- Dogs travelling to some countries may need tapeworm treatment
- You should book your travel certificate appointment well in advance
Why have the EU pet travel rules changed?
The rule update affects residency status rather than the pet itself.
EU pet passports are intended primarily for owners resident in the EU. As a result, many British residents now need to use an Animal Health Certificate instead when entering the EU with their pet.
For frequent travellers, this means more planning before each trip.
What is an Animal Health Certificate?
An Animal Health Certificate (AHC) is an official veterinary document that allows your pet to travel from Great Britain to EU countries.
It confirms that your pet:
- Is microchipped
- Has a valid rabies vaccination
- Meets current EU entry requirements
How long is an Animal Health Certificate valid?
An AHC is generally valid for:
- 10 days for entry into the EU after issue
- 4 months for onward travel within the EU
- Re-entry into Britain within the validity period (subject to current regulations)
Do I need a new Animal Health Certificate for every trip?
In most cases, yes.
If you leave the country for the EU again after the certificate expires, you will usually need a new Animal Health Certificate.
This is one of the biggest changes for pet owners who regularly travel to mainland Europe.
What vaccines does my pet need to travel to Europe?
To travel from Britain to the EU, your pet usually needs a rabies vaccination (including boosters). Although not always legally required for travel, it is strongly advised to keep on top of your pet’s routine vaccinations, too.
How St Kitts Vets can help with EU pet travel
The teams at each of our four North Hampshire practices are on hand to help you prepare for travelling with pets. We can:
- Check vaccination records
- Review microchip records
- Advise on pet travel requirements
- Issue Animal Health Certificates where appropriate
If you are travelling to Europe with your pet, get in touch with your local St Kitts practice for support:
St Kitts Vets Hartley Wintney: 01252 844044
St Kitts Vets Basingstoke: 01256 844944
Crookham Park Veterinary Centre: 01252 913990
Firgrove Veterinary Centre: 01252 877799
Many British residents now need an Animal Health Certificate instead. We recommend checking your circumstances before travel.
We recommend booking as early as possible, especially before summer holidays and school breaks.
Yes. Cats, dogs and ferrets are commonly covered under pet travel rules.
