Your UK pet passport no longer gets your pet into the EU

Who this affects

Residents of England, Scotland and Wales travelling to an EU country with a dog, cat or ferret. Using a pet passport instead of an AHC can get your pet refused entry. Residents of Northern Ireland can still use an EU pet passport.

How the AHC works

• It must be signed by an official vet (OV), so ask your practice when you book.
• It is valid for entry into the EU for 10 days from the day it is issued.
• After you arrive it covers onward travel between EU countries, and your return to Great Britain, for 6 months.
• You need a new one for every trip. One AHC can cover up to 5 pets.
• Your vet also gives you a declaration to sign that you won't sell or rehome your pet while abroad.

Before the appointment

• Microchip first, or at the same visit as the rabies vaccine — a vaccine given before the chip doesn't count.
• Rabies vaccine with your pet at least 12 weeks old. After a first vaccination, wait 21 full days before the AHC can be issued.
• Bring proof of the microchip date and your pet's vaccination history.

Going to Finland, Ireland, Malta or Norway?

Dogs also need a tapeworm treatment from a vet no less than 24 hours and no more than 120 hours (5 days) before you arrive, recorded on the AHC.

When you arrive

Enter the EU through a travellers' point of entry and show the AHC there. By car you can take up to 5 pets, unless you're going to a registered competition, show or sporting event.

Official sources: www.gov.uk · www.gov.uk · www.gov.uk. Not legal or veterinary advice — confirm with your vet, your airline and the official authority.

More guides

• Flying with a short-nosed dog or cat: which airlines say no
• The UK tapeworm rule for dogs: the 24–120 hour window
• The new EU pet health certificate from October 1, 2026