Key Points
- EU pet passports will no longer be valid for GB residents travelling to the EU from 22 April 2026
- This applies even to passports issued in EU Member States or Northern Ireland
- Animal Health Certificates will be required for each trip
- There are no changes to entry requirements into Great Britain
New rules confirmed by the Animal and Plant Health Agency will change how pet dogs, cats and ferrets travel from Great Britain to the European Union.
From 22 April 2026, EU pet passports held by pet owners resident in Great Britain will no longer be accepted as valid documentation for travel to the EU.
What is changing
According to APHA Briefing Note 14/26, EU pet passports may only be issued to pet owners whose main residence is within the European Union.
As a result, passports held by GB residents, including those issued in EU Member States or Northern Ireland, will no longer be valid for travel from Great Britain. This applies regardless of when the passport was issued.
What replaces the passport
From 22 April 2026, GB residents travelling to the EU with a dog, cat or ferret will be required to obtain an Animal Health Certificate.
The certificate must be issued by an Official Veterinarian and is valid for a single trip. A new certificate will be required for each journey.
What has not changed
There are no changes to the rules for pets entering Great Britain.
Pet owners are also advised to check specific entry requirements with the destination country before travelling, as these may vary.
What this means for dog guardians
For dog guardians travelling to Europe, the changes introduce additional cost and planning requirements.
Animal Health Certificates must be arranged within a specific timeframe before travel and cannot be reused for future trips.
The update also removes the use of EU-issued pet passports by GB residents, which had previously been used in some cases for repeat travel.
Understanding the correct documentation before travelling will be essential to avoid disruption at borders.
Why this change is being introduced
The update reflects new EU rules governing the movement of pets from third countries, including Great Britain.
These rules standardise how documentation is issued and clarify that EU pet passports are intended only for pets owned by residents within the European Union.
FAQs
Are EU pet passports still valid?
Yes, but only for pet owners who are resident within the European Union.
Can GB residents use an EU pet passport after April 2026?
No. From 22 April 2026, EU pet passports will not be valid for GB residents travelling from Great Britain to the EU.
What do GB pet owners need instead?
An Animal Health Certificate issued by an Official Veterinarian is required for each trip.
Does this affect travel into Great Britain?
No. There are no changes to entry requirements into Great Britain.
Find out more about pet travel requirements
The Animal and Plant Health Agency
If you need to transport your pet in the UK or the EU check out our DEFRA licensed pet transport providers
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