As of 22 April 2026, the European Union has introduced updated and more harmonised rules governing the movement of pets between Member States. While travelling with pets such as dogs, cats, and ferrets remains permitted, stricter requirements now apply to ensure consistent animal health controls and improved regulatory oversight.
Under the applicable framework, pets must be accompanied by a valid European pet passport, a registered microchip, and proof of a valid rabies vaccination. The pet passport serves as the official document containing essential information regarding the animal’s identification, vaccination history, and ownership details.
As a general rule, animals must travel with their owner. However, they may also be accompanied by another person, provided that written authorisation from the owner is available. In such cases, the owner must travel within a period of five days before or after the animal’s movement, ensuring a clear link between both journeys.
These measures are designed to strengthen animal health controls across the European Union, in particular by reducing the risk of disease transmission, including rabies, and by addressing the illegal transport of animals.
Compliance with these requirements is essential prior to travel. Pet owners are therefore advised to ensure that all documentation is valid and up to date in order to avoid any disruptions during cross-border movement within the European Union.
