EU Pet Passports - New Rules

There have been some sudden new rule changes to the use of EU pet passports to travel into the EU from GB.

As of 22nd April 2026, EU passports are ONLY valid if the owner’s main residence is within the EU. This means that EU vets can no longer issue passports unless they are satisfied that you live in the EU, and also that previously issued EU passports may no longer be valid if your main residence is in GB.

Animal Health Certificates are now the only way for GB residents to travel into the EU with their pets. These are now valid for 6 months (previously 4) for onward travel within the EU, but remain single use for exit and return to GB.

There is also now a cap of 5 pets per private vehicle (not per person as previously) for travel into the EU.

The rules for commercial exports, competitions and people other than the owner travelling with animals are different.

Please see the gov.uk website for further information, and as always, our website has information on what is needed for Animal Health Certificates