Are pet travel rules changing for UK pet owners in 2026?
While the core requirements remain steady, 2026 is a significant year for UK pet owners. Following the introduction of the Northern Ireland Pet Travel Document in 2025, the UK and EU are currently in discussions regarding the potential return of a UK-issued Pet Passport to simplify travel later this year.. These include different paperwork depending on whether you’re going to the EU or Northern Ireland, changes in accepted certificates, and stricter timelines around vaccinations and microchipping. Getting the details right means your pet can travel smoothly without delays at borders.
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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.
Pro Tip: Book your vet appointment at least four weeks in advance, especially during summer and school holidays when slots fill up quickly.
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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?
This document replaces the AHC for Great Britain to Northern Ireland journeys only. Crucially, if you plan to travel from NI into the Republic of Ireland (EU), you still require an Animal Health Certificate and a valid rabies vaccination, as the PTD is not valid for entry into the EU.
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
EU Regulation 2016/429 (the Animal Health Law) has been in effect since 2021. While a transitional period for certain older administrative rules ends in April 2026, it does not stop UK residents from using valid EU-issued pet passports (e.g., from Ireland or France). It simply reinforces the standards for third-country entry that the UK has followed since Brexit.
Pro Tip: Always double check your pet’s microchip number matches what’s recorded on their certificate. This is one of the most common reasons for border delays.
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 only need one Animal Health Certificate. A single AHC is valid for entry into the EU within 10 days of issue and remains valid for onward travel between EU countries for up to four months.
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.
Need Help with Pet Travel Paperwork?
Our pet relocation experts can handle everything from microchip checks to certificates.
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.
