April 2026 Update
From 22 April 2026, EU pet passports are no longer valid for GB (Great Britain) residents entering the EU. You must now use an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) for every trip. The limit has also changed to 5 pets per vehicle.
Brexit changed how UK pets travel to Europe. This guide explains the rules for 2026. It covers the documents you need, the common mistakes, and how to avoid delays.
How Brexit Changed Pet Travel
Before Brexit, UK pets used EU Pet Passports. Since 1 January 2021, the system changed:
Key Changes
- EU Pet Passports issued in the UK are no longer valid for EU travel.
- AHC required: You need an Animal Health Certificate for every UK→EU trip.
- Official Veterinarian only: A normal vet cannot issue an AHC.
- 10-day rule: The AHC must be issued within 10 days of travel.
- 4-month return: The same AHC lets your pet return to the UK for up to 4 months.
Current Requirements: UK to EU
1. Microchip
Your pet needs an ISO 11784/11785 compliant 15-digit microchip. The chip must be implanted before the rabies vaccination. Ask your vet to check the chip is readable before you travel.
2. Rabies Vaccination
- Your pet must be at least 12 weeks old when vaccinated.
- Wait 21 days after the first vaccination before travel.
- Keep boosters up to date. There is no extra wait if the booster is on time.
- The vet must record the batch number, date, and signature.
3. Animal Health Certificate (AHC)
What is an AHC?
The AHC is an official travel document. It proves your pet meets EU entry rules. It replaced the EU Pet Passport for UK residents after Brexit.
How to get one:
- Book an appointment with an Official Veterinarian (OV).
- Bring your pet's vaccination records and microchip number.
- The OV checks your pet and completes the certificate.
- The AHC must be issued within 10 days of travel.
Finding an OV: Use the APHA list of Official Veterinarians. You can also ask your regular vet if they offer OV services.
4. Tapeworm Treatment (Dogs Only)
⚠️ Critical Timing
Dogs need tapeworm treatment before returning to the UK. It must be given between 24 and 120 hours before UK arrival. This is the most common reason pets are refused entry.
Cats and ferrets are exempt.
Returning to the UK from Europe
UK entry rules are set by DEFRA. They are the same as before Brexit.
With an EU Pet Passport
EU pet passports are still valid for entering the UK. Make sure the passport includes:
- Microchip details
- Valid rabies vaccination
- Tapeworm treatment for dogs, recorded in the correct time window
With an AHC
An AHC is valid for UK re-entry for 4 months from issue. It stays valid until the rabies vaccination expires, whichever comes first.
Country-Specific Notes
The AHC works in every EU country. Some routes have extra checks:
- France: Main entry is Calais/Eurotunnel. Checks happen at Pet Reception Folkestone on return.
- Spain: You can drive through France or take a ferry to Santander/Bilbao.
- Ireland: Pets travel freely between the UK and Ireland.
- Switzerland/Norway: Similar rules to the EU.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mistakes That Can Stop Your Trip
- AHC too old: It must be issued within 10 days of travel.
- Wrong tapeworm timing: Dogs need treatment 24–120 hours before UK arrival.
- Wrong vet: Only an Official Veterinarian can issue an AHC.
- Expired rabies: Check the expiry date before you book.
- Wrong microchip: It must be ISO compliant.
- Missing paperwork: Keep the AHC with you, not in the boot.
Eurotunnel After Brexit
The Eurotunnel crossing has not changed. The journey still takes 35 minutes. Document checks are now stricter:
- Declare your pet at Folkestone check-in.
- French border staff may check the AHC when you leave Calais.
- Folkestone Pet Reception checks all documents on return.
- Staff scan the microchip and match it to the paperwork.
Tips for Smooth Travel
- Book the OV early: Appointments fill up fast in peak season.
- Double-check details: Microchip number, dates, and spelling must match.
- Keep documents handy: You need them at borders, not buried in luggage.
- Allow extra time: Document checks can add delays.
- Consider professional transport: We handle Brexit paperwork for you.
How PetVoyageUK Helps
Post-Brexit pet travel can be stressful. PetVoyageUK makes it simpler:
- Clear guidance: We tell you exactly which documents you need.
- OV recommendations: We know vets who issue AHCs quickly.
- Timing checks: We make sure tapeworm treatment fits the window.
- Border experience: Our drivers know the procedures.
- Door-to-door service: From your home to your destination.
Need help? Get a free quote or chat on WhatsApp.
Questions? Call +44 7892 807912.
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