Pet Travel Regulations in 2026: What’s Changing for UK Pet Owners?

Timeline of rule changes and what Brexit still affects in 2026

Since leaving the EU Pet Travel Scheme, the UK has followed third country rules. These changes started in 2021 and continue through 2026. Here’s a quick overview:

Brexit still affects how pets travel between Great Britain, the EU, and Northern Ireland. While Great Britain is treated as a third country, Northern Ireland follows EU rules. A separate Pet Travel Document now simplifies GB to NI journeys.

What documents will UK pet owners need in 2026?

What is an Animal Health Certificate and when do you need it?

If you’re travelling from Great Britain to an EU country, you’ll need an Animal Health Certificate from an Official Veterinarian approved by the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA). It:

• Must be issued within ten days of travel

• Is valid for one EU entry, up to four months of EU travel, and return to the UK

• Requires a working microchip and a valid rabies vaccination

You can search for Official Veterinarians through DEFRA-approved directories or contact your local vet to confirm if they’re authorised.

Can I still use a pet passport?

Only if it was issued in the EU or Northern Ireland. Pet passports issued in Great Britain are not accepted for EU travel. The same applies for assistance animals. If discussions between the UK government and European Commission result in renewed passport recognition, that may change. But for now, the Animal Health Certificate is the only accepted document.

What is the Northern Ireland Pet Travel Document?

The Pet Travel Document allows for easier movement between Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Issued under the Windsor Framework and administered by DEFRA, it:

• Replaces the Animal Health Certificate for that route

• Requires microchipping but not rabies vaccination or tapeworm treatment

• Is issued once and remains valid

• Cannot be used for travel into the EU

How does EU Regulation 2016 429 affect pet travel?

This EU regulation creates standard rules for how animals travel between countries. It covers:

• Microchip identification standards (must meet ISO 11784 or ISO 11785)

• Veterinary certification requirements

• Entry through approved border control locations known as Traveller’s Points of Entry

After April 2026, UK pet owners may lose the ability to use EU-issued pet passports unless new agreements are formalised. The regulation replaces earlier frameworks and formalises third-country entry standards.

How do the rule changes affect vet visits and travel costs?

Pet travel now needs more planning and a bigger budget:

• You need a new Animal Health Certificate for every EU trip

• Rabies vaccination must be done at least 21 days before travel

• Tapeworm treatment is still needed for countries like Finland, Malta, Norway, Ireland, and Northern Ireland

Here’s a rough idea of costs:

• Animal Health Certificate: around £200

• Rabies vaccination: £40 to £60

• Tapeworm treatment: cost varies by vet

Skipping the required treatment or missing the vaccination window can result in your pet being turned away at border checks. Always allow at least six weeks for paperwork and prep.

If you’re visiting France in July and then Spain in August, you’ll need two separate certificates issued for each journey.

What should UK pet owners do before travelling in 2026?

Pet travel checklist

• Make sure your pet has an ISO-compliant microchip (11784 or 11785)

• Check your rabies vaccination record is up to date and entered correctly in your documents

• Schedule your vet appointment for an Animal Health Certificate 7 to 10 days before departure

• Book tapeworm treatment if travelling to affected countries

• Confirm that you are entering the EU through a recognised Traveller’s Point of Entry (TPE)

This is especially important if you are travelling via ferry or lesser-used airports. You can find a list of approved entry points on EU and DEFRA guidance pages.

Do you need pet insurance for travel to the EU?

While it’s not required by law, pet insurance that covers EU travel is strongly recommended. Many UK insurers now include:

• Emergency vet treatment in EU countries

• Refunds if your pet becomes ill before departure

• Lost pet recovery or transport delay compensation

• Third-party liability cover for incidents abroad

Check that the policy covers cross-border travel and includes both outbound and inbound protection. Some insurers exclude travel claims or apply restrictions based on country.

If you’re combining your trip with planned treatments such as dental cleanings or minor surgery and confirm whether your policy covers post-procedure complications during travel.

Pet owners also benefit from cover if their paperwork is incorrect and their journey is delayed. Some insurers offer extra support for rescheduling travel after denied entry.

FAQs: UK pet travel in 2026

What paperwork do I need to take my pet abroad?

You’ll need an Animal Health Certificate for EU travel or a Pet Travel Document for Northern Ireland. Your pet must be microchipped and vaccinated.

Can I still use my old GB-issued pet passport?

No. These are no longer valid for entry to the EU. Only EU or Northern Ireland passports are accepted.

How do I apply for a pet travel document in the UK?

Your vet can apply on your behalf for an Animal Health Certificate. Pet Travel Documents for Northern Ireland are issued through the official DEFRA process.

Do I need rabies or tapeworm treatment for Northern Ireland?

Not if you have a valid Pet Travel Document. The same goes for tapeworm treatment unless travelling to another country that requires it.

Can I avoid VAT when returning to the UK with my dog?

Yes. You can apply for a Transfer of Residence (ToR) through HMRC to avoid customs fees if returning within five days.

Is pet insurance required for EU travel with dogs?

It’s not required, but it is highly recommended. Insurance helps cover medical treatment, trip delays, and lost pet costs.

What if I want to see a vet while I’m abroad?

Many pet owners combine travel with lower-cost vet care in France or Spain. Always check the clinic’s accreditation and whether they provide English support.

To avoid delays, always check the latest pet travel guidance from Tailored Pet Travel or consult your vet well in advance of your trip.