As of 22 April 2026, the rules for taking dogs and cats from Great Britain to the European Union have changed. While taking your pet abroad is still perfectly possible, the documentation you need depends on where you live rather than where your pet’s passport was issued.
The end of the EU passport for British residents
For several years, some British pet owners used EU-issued passports to travel to the continent. This often helped avoid the need for individual health certificates. However, new regulations now state that anyone living in England, Scotland, or Wales must use an Animal Health Certificate instead.
Even if you hold a passport issued in an EU country, it is no longer valid for entry into the EU if you are a resident of Great Britain. Using an invalid passport could result in your pet being refused entry at the border.
Understanding the Animal Health Certificate
The Animal Health Certificate, or AHC, is now the standard requirement for British residents. You must obtain this from an authorised vet before you set off.
Key details for your travel planning include:
- The certificate must be issued within ten days of your departure date.
- A new certificate is required for every separate trip you take from Great Britain to the EU.
- Once you have entered the EU, the certificate remains valid for four months of onward travel.
- You can use the same certificate to re-enter Great Britain, provided your pet’s rabies vaccination remains up to date.
Important travel limits and requirements
There are a few additional rules to keep in mind to ensure a smooth journey. The number of pets allowed in a private vehicle is limited to five animals. There are exceptions for those travelling for competitions or training, but you may need extra paperwork to prove this.
If you are not travelling at the same time as your pet, you must travel within five days of their journey. In these cases, whoever is accompanying the animal must carry written permission from the owner.
Looking ahead to your trip
While the new rules mean more regular paperwork, the Animal and Plant Health Agency confirms that holidays with your pets are still very much achievable. The main change is the move away from permanent passports toward trip-specific certificates.
To avoid any issues at the port or tunnel, it is best to contact your vet at least three weeks before you plan to leave. This gives you plenty of time to ensure vaccinations are correct and to secure an appointment for your certificate within the required ten-day window. Always check the specific entry requirements for your destination country, as individual EU member states can sometimes have their own additional rules.
Official Guidance
For the full legal breakdown and the most recent updates from the Animal and Plant Health Agency, you can visit the official GOV.UK pet travel page. This resource provides the specific requirements for each destination country and the necessary steps for authorised vets to issue your documentation.