GB–EU Pet Travel Documents: The April 2026 Changes

The direction of travel and the owner’s main residence matter. A GB-to-EU Animal Health Certificate is not the same document as a Great Britain pet health certificate for entry from many other countries.

What changed on 22 April 2026?

The UK government’s April 2026 update advises Great Britain residents to obtain an Animal Health Certificate for travel to the EU. EU pet passports are now for people whose main home is in the EU; a GB resident should not assume an older EU-issued passport remains valid for EU entry. An EU passport can still be accepted for the return journey to Great Britain.

An AHC is still needed for each new GB-to-EU trip. Once admitted, it can support onward EU travel and return to GB for up to six months, while rabies vaccination remains valid. The former four-month statement is out of date. Additional permission is needed when someone else accompanies the pet, and the owner-travel timing conditions must be met.

Arrange an Official Veterinarian appointment

The AHC guidance requires the certificate within ten days of EU entry. Book the appointment in advance and have the vet verify identification, vaccination history, destination-specific treatment and the correct certificate. Do not confuse booking the appointment early with issuing the certificate early.

Check both directions and any onward destination

• Tell the vet your main country of residence, exact itinerary, pet count and who will accompany the animals.
• Check the entry rules of each EU destination, including any dog tapeworm requirement.
• Check current limits for non-commercial movements; the April update distinguishes travel by private vehicle from travel on foot.
• Plan the return to GB before leaving. An accepted document does not remove vaccination or treatment conditions.
• Treat Northern Ireland as a separate route and check its current guidance.

For London-bound flights from outside the EU, use the Great Britain entry guide. Keep both the outbound and return requirements in the same travel plan.

Reviewed 7 September 2026. This guide explains the main planning decisions; the applicable government conditions, permit and flight-specific instructions determine the documents and arrangements for your pet. Recheck them before booking and before departure.

Discuss your route with SKYE PETS. Include your departure country, destination, intended dates, species, breed, age, weight and recent travel history so we can assess the journey and current flight options.