British pet owners planning trips to the European Union have been alerted to significant changes in travel regulations that take effect from Wednesday, 22 April 2026. The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) has issued a warning that new rules will render some existing pet passports invalid for entry into EU countries.
Key Changes to Pet Travel Documentation
From Wednesday onwards, individuals travelling from England, Scotland, or Wales to any EU nation with dogs, cats, or ferrets—including assistance animals—will now require an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) for entry. EU pet passports, even those previously issued within the EU, will no longer be accepted for this purpose.
The GOV.UK website explicitly states: "If you live in England, Scotland or Wales, from 22 April you cannot use a pet passport (even if it was issued in the EU). If you use a pet passport, your pet may be refused entry into the EU."
Procedures for Obtaining an Animal Health Certificate
Travellers must visit a veterinarian to obtain an AHC before departure, and this must be done within 10 days of the trip. Importantly, a new certificate is required for each journey from Britain to the EU, adding an extra layer of preparation for pet owners.
Once issued, the AHC remains valid for up to six months for onward travel within the EU and for re-entering Britain, provided that rabies vaccinations are still current. This allows for extended stays but necessitates careful planning around vaccination schedules.
APHA Reassurance and Guidance
Despite these regulatory shifts, the APHA has emphasised that holidays with pets remain feasible. An APHA spokesman commented: "Anyone planning to travel should check guidance on GOV.UK, and the entry rules for their destination. To avoid delays and ensure a smooth journey, pet owners residing in Great Britain should get an Animal Health Certificate if they are travelling from Great Britain to an EU country."
The agency underscores the importance of verifying specific requirements, as individual EU member states may impose additional pet travel conditions. The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs advises owners to always confirm entry details prior to travelling.
Additional Considerations and Exceptions
Under the updated framework, EU pet passports will now only be issued to individuals whose primary residence is within the EU, excluding holiday home owners or seasonal visitors. However, British-based travellers can still utilise EU pet passports for their return journey home, offering some continuity.
Further paperwork is mandated if the pet owner is not accompanying the animal. In such cases, the person transporting the pet must possess written permission from the owner, and travel must occur within five days of the owner's departure.
New limits also restrict travellers to a maximum of five pets in a private vehicle, though exceptions may apply for animals travelling to competitions, events, or training sessions. The British government is currently updating its guidance to reflect these EU regulatory changes, ensuring pet owners have access to accurate information.
