Moving Abroad with Pets: Everything You Need to Know

You’re preparing to move your pet abroad and wondering how to bring your furry companion with you? Don’t worry: moving abroad with pets is entirely possible, as long as you plan ahead carefully. Mandatory documents, health requirements, transport options, estimated budget, travel preparation… this article guides you step by step to move abroad with your pet in the best possible conditions.

What Documents Do You Need to Move Abroad with Pets?

Preparing a complete file is the first essential step for any pet relocation abroad. Required documents vary depending on the destination country, but some are universally requested for customs clearance.

European Pet Passport

The European pet passport is the essential document for traveling within the European Union and to many third countries. It contains the pet’s identification (microchip or tattoo number), its vaccination protocol, and important health records. It is issued by a licensed veterinarian authorized by the Departmental Directorate for the Protection of Populations (DDPP).

This document guarantees your pet’s health traceability and certifies that its rabies vaccination is current.

International Health Certificate

Outside the EU, the international health certificate (or health certificate) replaces or complements the European passport. This official document, signed by a certified veterinarian and sometimes legalized by competent authorities, certifies that your pet is healthy and meets the health requirements of the destination country.

Vaccination Records

The vaccination records must include the rabies vaccination (rabies vaccine or rabies shot). This vaccination is mandatory in almost all countries, and its validity must be respected at the time of customs clearance: the pet must be vaccinated against rabies at least 21 days before departure.

Depending on the destination, other required vaccinations may be mandatory (rabies, leptospirosis, distemper for dogs; panleukopenia, feline leukemia for cats). Your licensed veterinarian will inform you of the exact veterinary protocol to follow.

Import Permit

Finally, certain countries require a specific import permit, particularly for exotic pets or species subject to the CITES Convention (protected species). This document, to be requested several months in advance from the embassy or consulate of the destination country, officially authorizes your pet’s entry into the territory.

Contact the competent authorities well in advance to avoid unpleasant surprises during customs clearance: a missing document can result in entry refusal or pet quarantine.

What Are the Key Steps to Move Abroad with Your Pet?

Beyond documents, moving pets abroad involves following a rigorous veterinary protocol and precise import regulations. Here are the main steps to anticipate for traveling with your pet safely:

1. Check Entry Requirements for Your Destination Country

Each country has its own transport rules and health requirements. Certain countries, such as Australia, New Zealand, Japan, the United Kingdom or certain Asian countries, impose quarantine upon arrival, with quarantine periods ranging from a few days to several weeks (or even 6 months in some cases).

Others require mandatory blood tests (rabies titre test) to verify the pet’s immunity against rabies. This test must often be performed at least 3 months before departure. Some countries also set a maximum weight for incoming pets, or prohibit certain animal breeds.

Consult the official website of the Ministry of Agriculture or veterinary services of the destination country, or contact our team directly, to learn precisely the entry requirements applicable to your pet.

2. Schedule a Veterinary Visit

Visiting a licensed veterinarian is an essential step. This state-authorized professional is the only one who can issue internationally recognized official documents (European passport, health certificate).

They will perform:

• Updating the vaccination protocol (particularly rabies vaccination)
• Administering required antiparasitic treatments (dewormers, tick treatments, tapeworm treatments depending on destinations)
• Issuing the health certificate certifying that your pet is fit to travel
• If necessary, the required blood tests (rabies serology)

Watch the deadlines: some documents are only valid for 10 days. Plan this visit according to your departure date to comply with quarantine requirements and destination country formalities.

3. Ensure Your Documents Are Compliant

Check the compliance and validity of each document before departure. Have them apostilled or legalized if necessary with competent authorities (DDPP, Ministry of Agriculture). An incorrectly completed, untranslated or expired document can result in boarding refusal, forced quarantine, or even your pet’s repatriation at your expense.

You can contact us at any time to learn more about administrative procedures for moving abroad.

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4. Book Your Pet’s Transport

Once the medical file is complete, contact your airline or a specialized pet transport company to reserve your pet’s space (in cabin or cargo hold) and learn about the IATA standards applicable to the travel crate.

Each airline applies its own conditions: maximum weight, age restrictions, refusal of brachycephalic breeds in cargo… Booking your pet’s plane ticket must be done at the same time as yours, as spaces are often limited (maximum 2 to 4 pets in cabin per flight depending on airlines).

Which Pets Can You Move Abroad With?

When relocating internationally, the most commonly transported pets are dogs and cats, as most countries have clear regulations and procedures in place for them. However, other animals such as birds, small mammals, and certain exotic pets can also be moved abroad, provided you meet the specific import requirements of the destination country. Each category comes with its own rules, documentation, and restrictions, which are important to understand before planning your move.

Cats and Dogs

Dogs and cats are the most commonly moved pets. Most airlines and countries accept them, subject to compliance with the formalities described above. Ferrets are also allowed in many destinations, particularly within the EU, and benefit from the same regime as dogs and cats (passport, rabies vaccination).

Birds

Birds are subject to more complex regulations due to health risks related to avian flu and conventions on the protection of protected species (CITES Convention). An import permit is often required, and some countries impose a quarantine period. Additionally, many airlines refuse transporting birds in cabin.

Rodents, Reptiles and Other Exotic Pets

Rodents, reptiles and other exotic pets (rabbits, guinea pigs, snakes, iguanas, ferrets, parrots, turtles…) are subject to highly variable transport rules depending on the destination country.

Some animals, considered invasive species or protected species, may be completely banned from entry. For CITES animals, an import permit and export permit are mandatory.

To learn more about organizing your overall project, consult our guide: Moving abroad.

Special Cases and Restrictions You Should Know

Certain situations deserve special attention. The transport rules applicable may differ significantly from those for standard pets.

Travelling with a Service Dog

Service dogs (guide dogs for the blind, autism service dogs, mobility assistance dogs) benefit from special status in many countries and airlines.

They are generally allowed to travel in cabin alongside their owner, without additional charge, provided they present supporting documents proving their status (health certificate, training certification, disability card). Some countries even exempt these animals from quarantine.

Contact our teams directly to learn about specific conditions and plan ahead for booking: even when fee-exempt, service dogs must be declared in advance.

Restricted or Disallowed Breeds

Not all dogs are subject to the same requirements with airlines and customs authorities. Certain breeds are subject to age restrictions, maximum weight or strict prohibitions depending on destinations.

Brachycephalic Breeds

Brachycephalic dogs (French bulldog, English bulldog, pug, boxer, Pekingese, shih tzu) and brachycephalic cats (Persian, exotic shorthair, British shorthair, Himalayan) are particularly vulnerable during flights due to their breathing difficulties.

Many airlines refuse to transport them in cargo hold or cabin, especially during summer or on long-haul flights. Airlines like British Airways, Lufthansa, Air France or KLM apply strict prohibitions.

If you own a pet with this morphology, ideally opt for a specialized pet transport company capable of ensuring appropriate travel conditions (climate-controlled transport, constant monitoring, controlled temperature…).

Category 1 and 2 Dogs

In France, category 1 dogs (attack dogs: pit bulls, mastiffs, Boerboels, Tosa without French pedigree registration) and category 2 dogs (guard and defense dogs: rottweilers, Tosa with pedigree, American Staffordshire terriers or pit bulls) are subject to strict regulations, both on national territory and when traveling abroad.

Some countries (United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Denmark, Norway…) completely ban their importation. Others impose very specific entry conditions: mandatory muzzle, liability insurance, ownership permit…

Always verify restricted breeds in your destination country before any administrative procedure.

Exotic Pets

Exotic pets (snakes, parrots, iguanas, rabbits, guinea pigs, ferrets, hedgehogs, chinchillas, rats…) are subject to highly variable export and import rules.

For protected species listed under CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora), an export permit and import permit are mandatory. The absence of these documents can result in animal confiscation and criminal prosecution.

Many airlines refuse transporting exotic pets, or only accept them as cargo freight. Consult the CITES authorities in your departure country well in advance (6 months minimum) to prepare your file. For certain animals (reptiles, amphibians, spiders), specific health certificates and approved containers are required.

How to Arrange Transport for Your Pet?

Choosing the right transport method is a crucial step in pet relocation abroad. Several options are available depending on your pet’s size, your destination country, and your budget constraints.

In the Cabin

Small pets (generally less than 13-18 lbs, travel crate or pet carrier included, depending on the airline) can travel in cabin under the passenger seat. This is the most comfortable and least stressful solution for the pet, who stays with you throughout the flight.

Booking must be made when purchasing your ticket, as spaces are strictly limited (generally 2 to 4 pets maximum per flight). Some airlines impose maximum dimensions for the pet carrier (generally 18 x 11 x 9.5 inches). The pet must be able to stand up and turn around in its container.

Warning: Even small pets can be refused in cabin if they belong to brachycephalic breeds or appear on a restricted breeds list.

In the Cargo Hold

For medium or large-sized pets (over 18 lbs, crate included), cargo hold travel (accompanied baggage) is the standard solution.

Prices vary depending on the airline and total weight (pet + crate), generally between $90 and $350. Some airlines refuse cargo hold transport on long flights (over 11 hours) or to certain destinations (hot countries in summer), for safety reasons.

The travel crate must comply with IATA standards: solidity, sufficient ventilation, secure locking system, appropriate size. The pet must be able to stand naturally, turn around and lie down.

Via Air Freight (Cargo)

For long distances, large pets (over 165 lbs), countries with strict health requirements (Australia, New Zealand, Singapore…), or sensitive breeds (brachycephalic dogs, anxious pets), using a professional pet transport company is highly recommended.

These specialists master customs formalities, quarantine requirements, IATA standards, and can provide customized support for your pet: door-to-door transport, home pickup, real-time tracking, layover management, airport reception at destination, quarantine facility placement if necessary.

This solution, although more expensive (starting from $1,200 depending on destination), guarantees maximum peace of mind and optimal comfort for moving your pet abroad.

How Much Does It Cost to Move Pets Abroad?

The budget to plan for moving pets abroad can vary considerably depending on several factors: destination, transport method, pet size and specific required formalities. Here’s an overview of the main costs to anticipate.

Veterinary Fees and Documentation

Between $120 and $600 on average, including:

• Licensed veterinarian consultation: $60 to $95
• Required vaccinations (rabies, etc.): $60 to $120
• Blood tests (rabies titre) if required: $120 to $180
• Antiparasitic treatment: $25 to $60
• European pet passport or international health certificate: $18 to $60
• Import permit (if applicable): $60 to $240
• Document legalization/apostille: $12 to $60

This expense can be higher if specific serological tests are required (e.g.: Australia, New Zealand, Japan) or if extended quarantine is imposed.

Cabin Transport Costs

Airlines generally charge $35 to $150 for a pet in cabin (small dog, cat, ferret under 18 lbs, crate included). Some low-cost airlines don’t accept any pets.

Cargo Hold Transport Costs

Prices range from $90 to $350 depending on the pet’s weight (crate included), the airline and destination. Long-haul flights are generally more expensive. Air France, Lufthansa, KLM and Emirates are among the most pet-friendly airlines, but their pricing structures differ.

Transport via a Specialized Pet Relocation Service

For all-inclusive service (handling formalities, door-to-door transport, customs clearance, quarantine management, personalized tracking), prices start from $1,200 or more depending on destination and included services.

Quarantaine Costs

If the destination country imposes pet quarantine, boarding fees can range from $35 to $120 per day depending on country and quarantine conditions. A quarantine period of 10 days therefore represents an additional cost of $350 to $1,200.

Approved Travel Crate

Expect to pay between $35 and $300 depending on size and brand. Choose models compliant with IATA standards (Vari Kennel, Gulliver, Petmate SkyKennel are references).

How to Prepare Your Pet for Moving Abroad?

A well-prepared pet will experience relocation in better conditions and adapt more easily to their new country. This preparation should begin several weeks, even months, before departure.

Help Your Pet Get Used to Its Carrier

Start this step at least 2 to 3 months before departure, especially if your pet has never traveled before. Leave the crate or carrier open in your home, and place your pet’s favorite toys, treats, and usual blanket inside so it associates the crate with a safe and comfortable space. For cats in particular, who are more sensitive to stress, this familiarization is essential. Carry out gradual training exercises: close the door for a few minutes, then gradually increase the duration. Simulate short car trips to get your pet used to movement and noise.

Follow the Veterinary Protocol

Schedule a final veterinary check-up within the 10 days prior to the flight to ensure that:

• All required vaccinations are up to date and valid
• A health certificate can be issued
• Your pet’s overall health condition is suitable for air travel
• Anti-parasitic treatments have been properly administered

Your certified veterinarian can also advise you on the use of calming solutions suitable for your pet’s species and size.

Warning: never administer sedatives without medical advice, especially for brachycephalic dogs that already have breathing difficulties. Some substances can be dangerous at high altitude.

Adjust Feeding Before the Flight

In the 4 to 6 hours before the flight, avoid giving your pet a large meal to reduce the risk of nausea, vomiting, and digestive discomfort. However, make sure your pet stays properly hydrated until boarding.

Attach an approved water dispenser to the crate door and fill it before departure. Some airlines provide specific instructions regarding feeding and hydration, especially in the case of long layovers.

Ensure the Crate Meets IATA Standards

Your transport crate must comply with IATA (International Air Transport Association) standards:

• Large enough for your pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably
• Adequate ventilation on at least three sides
• A secure door with a reliable locking system
• A leak-proof and absorbent base (pads or absorbent mat)
• Clear identification (pet’s name, owner’s contact details, destination country)

Place a piece of clothing with your scent inside the crate to reassure your pet during the journey. Avoid hard toys or objects that could come loose and pose a choking hazard.

Anticipate Layovers

If your flight includes one or more layovers, check with your airline or pet transport provider about:

• Conditions for handling animals at the transit airport
• Possibilities to take your pet out for bathroom breaks (some airports have dedicated areas)
• Rules regarding rehydration and feeding between flights
• Acceptable layover durations to ensure your pet’s well-being

For journeys with long layovers or destinations requiring complex connections, using a specialized pet transport service ensures professional care at every stage of the trip.