European Union
European Union (general rules)
Entering "European Union (general rules)": what you need
The EU's unified rules (Regulation (EU) No 576/2013) for non-commercial movement of dogs, cats and ferrets. Inside the EU, and entering from a "listed" low-rabies-risk country (most non-EU European countries), no titer test is required. Entering from an "unlisted" country (including Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan) a titer test is mandatory before departure.
Vaccinations
Rabies vaccination is mandatory and must be given after the microchip is implanted (otherwise it doesn't count); valid no earlier than 21 days after the primary vaccination. An on-time booster keeps validity from the injection date.
Rabies titer test
Only needed when entering from an "unlisted" country: blood is drawn no earlier than 30 days after the rabies vaccination, the antibody titer must be ≥ 0.5 IU/ml at an EU-approved laboratory, and entry is allowed no earlier than 3 months after the blood draw date. The result stays valid indefinitely as long as boosters are kept up to date.
Documents
Entering from the EU or Northern Ireland — an EU pet passport issued by an approved veterinarian. Entering from Great Britain (England, Scotland or Wales) — like any other third country — needs an EU Animal Health Certificate (AHC), issued no more than 10 days before entry: it is valid for the entry trip itself for 10 days from issue, then for up to 6 more months (or until the rabies vaccination expires, whichever is sooner) for further travel within the EU. Your next trip will need a new AHC; an EU pet passport can only be issued to someone whose permanent home is in the EU itself — it isn't meant for holiday-home owners or seasonal visitors.
Entry notes
No more than 5 animals per person for non-commercial travel (otherwise separate commercial rules apply). Some EU countries additionally restrict certain "dangerous" breeds — see that country's page. Age: puppies/kittens are generally accepted from 12 weeks (after vaccination) plus a 21-day wait.
Sources: European Commission — Your Europe / DG SANTE (AHC: 10-day entry validity, 6-month onward EU travel; Great Britain ≠ Northern Ireland regime, verified Aug 2026); IATA Live Animals Regulations
Official source ↗Official source 2 ↗
Verified: August 28, 2026
This information is for reference only and does not replace advice from an embassy, veterinary authority or airline. Rules change — always verify with official sources before you travel. Never give your pet a sedative or sleep medication before a flight without a veterinarian's prescription — pressure changes at altitude can make it fatal.
Hani Walk — walk tracking, a digital pet passport and vaccination reminders, always at hand in the app.