PETS DELIVERY EXPERT
GB residents: check EU pet passport eligibility before your next trip
April 2026 UK guidance reminds GB residents to arrange an animal health certificate for EU travel. Check passport eligibility against the Commission’s clarification.
- UK guidance published
- Published
- Sources checked
Check residence and the direction of travel
UK guidance published on April 21, 2026 advises Great Britain residents to arrange an animal health certificate (AHC) for dogs, cats and ferrets traveling from Great Britain to the EU.
The European Commission’s current FAQ clarifies the history: EU pet passports issued to owners resident in Great Britain have not been valid for that direction of travel since December 31, 2020, regardless of when or where the passport was issued. The April announcement should not be read as the first introduction of this passport restriction.
Passport eligibility depends on the owner’s usual residence. A holiday home or seasonal visits do not establish EU residence. These instructions concern entry into the EU; check the return direction separately.
Plan for the outward and return legs
A new AHC is needed for each trip from Great Britain. Subject to valid rabies coverage, it can support onward EU travel and return to Great Britain for up to six months. The government says an existing EU pet passport can still be used to return to Great Britain.
Our planning recommendation
Before choosing a document route, tell the certifying veterinarian where you mainly live, where the passport was issued, and the dates of both legs. Keep copies of the passport and vaccination history available for that review.
For a move rather than a holiday, also explain whether your pet will travel with you and whether ownership is changing. That helps the team assess the journey from the start. Discuss your planned route with us.
Plan the full journey
For the journey into England, Scotland or Wales, check the separate British document and route requirements.
Read our Great Britain pet travel guide for preparation steps and official sources.
Read the official sources
- UK government: new EU rules for GB residents
- European Commission: pet passport eligibility and travel questions
Sources checked . Requirements can change. Confirm the instructions for your departure country and travel date with the relevant authority.
LET’S ARRANGE THE JOURNEY
Your companion.
Your next chapter.
Tell us where your pet is and where they need to go. We will organize the journey around them.
Start with the route
Share your departure and destination cities, your pet’s breed and weight, your preferred dates, and whether you will travel together. We will assess the route and prepare a transport proposal with the services included.
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