Date of publication: 09/30/2021
Pet passports issued in the UK are no longer valid for travel to Spain and owners will need an EU pet passport
Traveling between the UK and Spain with pets can be more difficult today than it was before Brexit. The British Embassy in Madrid has issued a new pet passport and pet travel document reminder for anyone looking to move their dog or cat between Spain and the UK.
In particular, they highlighted the fact that the rules have changed this year and now “an EU pet passport issued by the UK is not valid for travel to the EU or Northern Ireland”. The embassy has also recommended that people traveling with animals “speak to their veterinarian prior to travel to obtain the necessary pet travel documents and to ensure that they are complying with the EU pet travel regulations”.
Traveling with pets from the UK to Spain
Pet passports issued in England, Wales and Scotland are no longer valid for travel to Spain and other EU countries. Travelers should use a pet passport from an EU country or Northern Ireland.
These restrictions also apply to guide dogs for the visually impaired.
All dogs, cats and ferrets imported into Spain must have:
- a microchip
- a valid rabies vaccination
- an animal health certificate (unless you have a pet passport issued in an EU country or Northern Ireland)
Your pet needs a new animal health certificate for every trip to Spain. The rabies vaccination does not have to be repeated because it is up-to-date.
Travel restrictions on the number of pets you can bring to Spain mean you are not allowed to bring more than 5 animals unless you are visiting or training for a competition, show or sporting event. In this case, you must submit a written confirmation of registration for the event. All animals you travel with must attend the event and be over 6 months old.
Traveling with pets from Spain to the UK
Spain and other EU countries are referred to as “Part 1 Listed Countries” which means that the UK will accept pet passports or a UK pet health certificate when taking pets across borders.
You can enter the UK with your pet cat, dog or ferret if it:
- was chipped
- Has a pet passport or health certificate
- is vaccinated against rabies
In addition, dogs must also receive tapeworm treatment.
The animal must not arrive in the UK more than 5 days before or after you. If you don’t follow these rules, your pet can be quarantined for up to 4 months, or if you are traveling by sea, your pet can be refused entry. The owner is responsible for any charges or fees incurred.
Image: Archive