British citizens traveling to the European Union with dogs, cats, or ferrets can no longer use UK-issued EU pet passports, following the implementation of post-Brexit rules. The UK is now classified as a "Part 2 listed third country" for the purposes of pet travel, meaning different documentation is required.
According to official guidance from the UK government and the European Commission, travelers must now obtain an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) for each journey to an EU country or Northern Ireland. This certificate, issued by an official veterinarian no more than 10 days before travel, confirms the pet is microchipped and vaccinated against rabies.
The new process is more complex and costly than the previous pet passport system, as an AHC is only valid for a single trip into the EU, for onward travel within the bloc for up to four months, and for re-entry to Great Britain. Each return trip or visit to a different EU country requires a new certificate. EU pet passports issued in member states remain valid for travel within the EU.
Authorities advise pet owners to consult their vet at least one month before planned travel to ensure all requirements, including timing of rabies vaccinations, are met to avoid being turned away at the border.
