You’ll usually need an Animal Health Certificate, rabies vaccination, and microchip. Requirements vary, so plan well in advance.
Planning a trip abroad with your pet? Whether you’re heading to the EU, Northern Ireland, or further afield, Oathall Vets can guide you through every step of the process.
International pet travel can seem complicated — but with the right preparation and support, it doesn’t have to be. Our experienced team is here to help you travel confidently and in line with all the legal requirements.
What Does My Pet Need to Travel?
When travelling outside the UK, including Northern Ireland, your pet will usually require:
- ✅ A valid Animal Health Certificate (AHC)
- ✅ Up-to-date rabies vaccination (administered at least 21 days before travel)
- ✅ A working microchip
- ✅ Tapeworm treatment if returning to the UK from certain countries (e.g. Ireland, Finland, Malta, Norway)
Important update (2026):
UK residents can no longer use EU Pet Passports for travel to the EU or Northern Ireland. An Animal Health Certificate (AHC) is now required for each trip when travelling from Great Britain.
We’ll guide you through the process based on your destination, travel date, and pet’s medical history.
For detailed travel rules and regulations for countries other than the EU and Northern Ireland, you can contact the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA):
- APHA Pet Travel Helpline: 03000 200 301
Email: www.gov.uk/export-health-certificates.
Open Monday to Friday, 8:30am – 5:00pm (excluding public holidays)
We recommend you do this as soon as possible.
What Is an Animal Health Certificate?
An AHC is the official document your pet needs to travel to EU countries and Northern Ireland. It must be:
- Issued within 10 days of travel
- Completed by an Official Veterinarian (OV) — which we have on-site at Oathall Vets
- Used for one single trip, and valid for onward travel in the EU for up to 4 months, and return to the UK, including Northern Ireland
We’ll help ensure the certificate is filled out correctly and on time.
When Should I Book an Appointment?
Please contact us at least a month before your travel date, to allow time for:
- Rabies vaccinations (if needed)
- Issuing and signing your Animal Health Certificate
- Discussing any travel health concerns for your pet
For Frequent Travellers
- EU Pet Passports can no longer be used by Great Britain residents for travel to the EU.
- Pets travelling from Great Britain require an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) for each trip into the EU.
EU Pet Passports remain valid only for residents living in the EU (or eligible Northern Ireland residents under EU rules).
Why Choose Oathall Vets for Pet Travel?
- Experienced, qualified team to issue AHCs
- Up-to-date advice on all travel requirements
- Calm, caring consultations to minimise stress for you and your pet
- Personalised travel timelines
We’ll make sure you have everything you need — so you can focus on enjoying your trip.
Ready to Plan?
Call Oathall Vets today to book a travel consultation and let us take the stress out of preparing for your pet’s journey abroad.
Reviewed by Toby Birch BSc BVM&Sc MRCVS, Veterinary Surgeon at Oathall Vets
