Pet Transport Import Services
At Pets Transport Premuim , we understand that your pets are not just animals; they’re cherished members of your family. Whether you’re relocating, going on vacation, or embarking on a new adventure, we’re here to guide you through the intricate process of bringing dogs, cats, and all other pets into the United Kingdom. Our comprehensive guide to pet import regulations will ensure a smooth and stress-free journey for both you and your pets.
Pet Transport Import Documents
Pet Travel Documents For “Part 1” Listed Countries
A “Part 1” country is a country in the European Union’s Pet Travel Scheme. Because they have a low incidence of rabies, pets coming from these countries typically have more lenient requirements for entering rabies-free or rabies-controlled countries. The regulations often involve less stringent vaccination and waiting period criteria.
You must have one of the following documents to bring a pet dog, cat or ferret to Great Britain from a Part 1 listed country:
- a pet passport issued in a ‘part 1’ listed country; or
- an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) issued in Great Britain in the last 4 months; or
- a pet passport issued in Great Britain before 1 January 2021; or
- a Great Britain pet health certificate
Pet Travel Documents For “Part 2” Listed Countries and “Not Listed” Countries
A “Part 2” country is a country not in the EU’s Pet Travel Scheme. Because of this, pets coming from these countries might have more stringent requirements, including longer waiting periods after rabies vaccination, blood tests, and other health checks.
You must have a Great Britain pet health certificate to bring a pet dog, cat or ferret to Great Britain from a Part 2 listed country or Not Listed Country.
EU Pet Passport
A pet passport is a standardised document specifically designed for EU countries, offering comprehensive information about your pet’s identity, vaccinations, and health status. This document plays a pivotal role as your pet’s travel companion, ensuring their smooth entry into the UK and other EU member states. Ensuring that your pet’s passport is accurately completed and kept up-to-date will not only streamline the immigration process but also minimise any inconvenience.
Health Certificate for Non-EU Countries
Obtaining a health certificate from an accredited veterinarian is an essential step in the import process, particularly for pets arriving from non-EU countries. This certificate validates your pet’s good health and suitability for travel. It typically includes details about their microchip, recent vaccinations, and any necessary treatments.
Tapeworm Treatment For Dogs
If you are bringing a dog to the UK from any country except Finland, Ireland, Northern Ireland, Malta or Norway, they must be treated for tapeworms. The treatment must:
- Be approved for use in the country it’s being given in.
- Contain praziquantel or an equivalent proven to be effective against the Echinococcus multilocularis tapeworm.
- Be administered no less than 24 hours and no more than 120 hours (5 days) before your pet enters Great Britain.
Navigating the intricacies of pet import regulations can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Pets Abroad UK, we specialise in making your pet’s import to the UK as simple as possible, regardless of which country they’re travelling from. Our experts are well-versed in UK pet travel rules and regulations, ensuring that your pet meets all the necessary requirements for a smooth entry into the country. Let us take care of the details, so you can focus on the excitement of reuniting with your furry companions in the UK.
Travelling with Exotic Pets and Birds
When bringing exotic pets to the UK, such as a pet bird, there are crucial UK regulations for exotic pets that you need to follow. From EU countries, only a health certificate is required. However, for non-EU countries, it is a little more complicated. You will require an Import Licence issued by the APHA Centre for International Trade Imports, and your bird must enter via approved points such as Edinburgh, Gatwick, or Heathrow airports. There may also be additional requirements, so if you’re interested in travelling with birds to the UK, we recommend that you get in touch. We can provide you with specific information based on your personal circumstances.
Experience Matters – For You And Your Pet
With more than 50 years of experience, Pets Transport Premuim excels in navigating the intricate details of pet importation to the UK. We can guide you through the entire process, handling as much or as little of it as you’d like. Our services are fully customisable and catered to you and your pet’s specific needs. Let us help you ensure a seamless and stress-free journey for your beloved companions.
Upon your pet’s arrival in the UK, we can extend our commitment to convenience by arranging home delivery and the completion of all necessary customs clearance formalities. Your pet’s comfort and safety are our top priorities, and our comprehensive services reflect our dedication to making their journey as smooth as possible. You can get a complimentary, no-obligation quote based on your specific circumstances, WhatsApp us on +44 7919 650233, or email us at
k to get started.
FAQs About Bringing Pets to the UK
Which Countries Accept Pet Passports?
Great Britain accepts pet passports from the following countries (known as Part 1 listed countries): Andorra, Azores and Madeira, Canary Islands, French Guiana, Gibraltar, Greenland and the Faroe Islands, Guadeloupe, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Martinique, Mayotte (French territory), Monaco, Norway, Réunion (French territory), Saint Barthélemy (French Territory), San Marino, Saint Martin (French territory), Switzerland, Vatican City State
Which Countries Accept Pet Health Certificates?
Great Britain accepts Great Britain pet health certificates from the following countries (known as Part 2 listed countries): Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Aruba, Ascension Island, Australia, Bahrain, Barbados, Belarus, Bermuda, BES Islands (Bonair, Saint Eustatius and Saba), Bosnia-Herzegovina, British Virgin Islands, Canada, Cayman Islands, Chile, Curaçao, Falkland Islands, Fiji, French Polynesia, Hong Kong, Jamaica, Japan, Malaysia, Mauritius, Mexico, Montserrat, New Caledonia, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Russian Federation, Saint Maarten, Singapore, St Helena, St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, St Pierre and Miquelon, St Vincent and The Grenadines, Taiwan, Trinidad and Tobago, United Arab Emirates, USA (includes American Samoa, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands), Vanuatu, Wallis and Futuna. Great Britain also accepts health certificates from Part 1 countries.
How To Travel With Pets To The UK From A Not ‘Listed’ Country?
To enter the UK from a “Not Listed” country, you will need to complete the following criteria after having your pet vaccinated for rabies:
- Your pet must have a blood sample taken at least 30 days after the rabies vaccination.
- Your vet must send the blood sample to an EU-approved blood testing laboratory.
- The results of the blood test must show that the vaccination was successful.
- You must wait 3 months from the date the blood sample was taken before you travel.
- The vet must give you a copy of the test results and enter the day the blood sample was taken in a health certificate.
What Are The Pet Import Regulations For Bringing Dogs to The UK?
As an overview, when bringing a dog into the UK, they can enter or return to England, Scotland, or Wales if they have been microchipped, vaccinated against rabies, treated for tapeworm, and have a pet passport or health certificate. Your dog may need to do a blood test if you’re not travelling from a Part 1 or Part 2 country. If you’re going to sell or transfer ownership of your dog, you will need to fill in a declaration.
What Are The Pet Import Regulations For Bringing a Cat to The UK?
As an overview, your pet cat can enter or return to England, Scotland, or Wales if they have been microchipped, vaccinated against rabies, and have a pet passport or health certificate. If you’re going to sell or transfer ownership of your cat, you will need to fill in a declaration.
How Long Does A Dog Have To Be In Quarantine in The UK?
If you follow the pet import rules, your dog will not be required to go into quarantine when they enter the UK. Alternatively, they could be put into quarantine for up to 4 months at the owner’s expense.
What Vaccinations Are Required For Pets Entering The UK?
The core vaccination required is against rabies. The vaccination schedule might vary depending on the specific rabies vaccination your pet receives and the country they’re coming from.
How Do I Obtain A Pet Passport For My Animal?
To get an official ‘Pet Passport’, you must be from an authorised EU country. Then, your pet must be microchipped, vaccinated against rabies, and be treated for ticks, fleas and tapeworms. You will need a veterinarian’s letter or certificate confirming fitness to travel and/or no obvious signs of disease, and a government certification that the veterinarian’s export documentation and certificates are in order for travel.
However, outside of the EU, “pet passport” is a phrase used to describe the documents that are required to import a pet into a country – not an officially recognised document. In these cases, you will often just need proof of vaccinations, microchipping, and a health certificate. However, this does vary by country, so it’s best to contact a professional pet transportation company to get information based on your specific circumstances.
Is There A Quarantine Period For Pets Arriving In The UK?
If the UK’s import procedures are followed, there is no quarantine period for pets arriving in the UK. In general, this requires your pet being microchipped, vaccinated against rabies, and having a pet passport or health certificate. However, further regulations can apply, so it’s best to contact a professional pet transportation service, like Pets Transport Premuim.
Can I Bring Exotic Pets Or Birds Into The UK, And Are There Specific Regulations For Them?
Yes, you can bring exotic pets or birds to the UK, but specific regulations apply. These can include getting a health certificate, import permit, and compliance with CITES regulations (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species), depending on your pet’s species and which country they’re travelling from. Pets Transport Premuim can guide you on how to bring your bird or other exotic pet into the UK based on your unique circumstances.
Are There Any Restrictions On The Type Or Breed Of Pets That Can Be Brought Into The UK?
Yes, the following breeds are banned in the UK: Pit Bull Terrier, Japanese Tosa, Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro. These breeds cannot be imported or brought into the UK by plane, ship, or any other method.
How Do I Choose A Pet-Friendly Airline For Travel To The UK?
Look for airlines with established pet transportation services, well-maintained cargo areas, and policies that prioritise pet safety and comfort. When you partner with us, we provide recommendations for pet-friendly airlines flying the most direct route to your destination. Use our free, no-obligation quote calculator to find out more.