Pet Travel Documentation

Microchip

ISO 11784/11785 compliant, 15-digit microchip. Must be implanted before rabies vaccination to be valid. If your pet was microchipped after vaccination, the vaccination may need to be repeated.

Rabies Vaccination

Primary vaccination must be given after microchip implantation. Most destinations require the vaccination to be at least 21 days old before travel. Boosters must be given within the validity period of the previous vaccination.

Health Certificate

Official veterinary certificate confirming your pet is fit to travel. Typically valid for 10 days from issue date (varies by destination). Must be issued by an authorised veterinarian.

Fit to Fly

Veterinary confirmation that your pet is healthy and fit for air travel. Usually included in the health certificate examination.

EU Pet Passport

For dogs travelling within or from the EU:

• ISO-compliant microchip (15-digit)
• Valid rabies vaccination recorded in passport
• EU Pet Passport issued by authorised veterinarian
• Passport must show microchip was implanted before vaccination

The EU Pet Passport simplifies travel between EU member states and to many other countries.

Travel Within the EU

Between EU countries, the EU Pet Passport is typically sufficient. No additional health certificates required for most EU-to-EU travel.

Entering the EU from Third Countries

Requirements depend on the country of origin:

• Listed countries: Health certificate, microchip, rabies vaccination
• Unlisted countries: Additional rabies titre test required

Entering the UK (Post-Brexit)

For dogs entering the UK from the EU or other countries:

• ISO-compliant microchip
• Rabies vaccination (at least 21 days before travel)
• Animal Health Certificate (AHC) issued within 10 days of travel, OR valid EU Pet Passport
• Tapeworm treatment: Required 24-120 hours before arrival in the UK

The tapeworm treatment must be administered by a vet and recorded in the health certificate or passport.

Leaving the UK

Requirements depend on your destination. For travel to the EU, an Animal Health Certificate is required as the UK is now a third country.

Entering Switzerland

Switzerland follows EU-equivalent rules for most EU-origin pets:

• EU Pet Passport accepted from EU countries
• Third-country pets require veterinary certificate
• Rabies vaccination required (at least 21 days old)
• ISO microchip mandatory

Switzerland is not an EU member but participates in the pet travel scheme.

Entering Dubai

For dogs entering Dubai:

• Import permit: Required from UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE)
• ISO microchip
• Rabies vaccination
• Health certificate (typically within 10 days of travel)
• Rabies titre test may be required depending on country of origin
• Original vaccination records

Import permits must be obtained before travel. Our team assists with the application process.

Leaving Dubai

Requirements depend on your destination. Export permits may be required for some countries.

Entering Saudi Arabia

For dogs entering Saudi Arabia:

• Import permit: Required from MEWA (Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture)
• ISO microchip
• Rabies titre test: FAVN or ELISA test required
• Health certificate endorsed by government veterinary authority
• Embassy attestation may be required depending on origin country
• Original vaccination records

Saudi Arabia has specific requirements that vary by origin country. Our team provides detailed guidance.

What Is a Titre Test?

A rabies antibody titre test measures the level of rabies antibodies in your pet's blood. Some countries require this test to confirm adequate immunity.

• When required: Travel to certain destinations, or from unlisted third countries to the EU
• Timing: Blood sample taken at least 30 days after vaccination
• Results: Typically 2-4 weeks from an approved laboratory
• Validity: Remains valid as long as rabies boosters are given within the required period

Plan ahead if a titre test is required—the timeline can add 6+ weeks to your preparation.