If you’re planning to travel internationally with your dog or cat, understanding the difference between a Pet Passport, an Animal Health Certificate (AHC), and an Export Health Certificate (EHC) is essential.
In simple terms, an Animal Health Certificate is generally used for pet travel from Great Britain to the EU and certain listed countries, while an Export Health Certificate is required for pets travelling to many destinations outside Europe. Pet Passports still exist in some circumstances, but recent rule changes have made them less useful for many UK pet owners.
Getting the wrong paperwork can result in delayed travel, quarantine, additional costs, or even refusal of entry. Here’s everything you need to know before travelling with your pet.
Why Pet Travel Documentation Matters
Every country has its own rules designed to prevent the spread of diseases such as rabies and protect animal welfare. Before your pet can travel internationally, authorities need evidence that they meet the destination country’s health and import requirements.
Depending on where you’re travelling, your pet may need:
- A valid Animal Health Certificate (AHC)
- An Export Health Certificate (EHC)
- A recognised Pet Passport
- Vaccination records
- Rabies blood test results
- Parasite treatment certification
The exact requirements vary significantly between destinations, which is why expert guidance can save considerable time and stress.
At PetAir, our veterinary-led team has safely relocated more than 33,000 pets to over 300 destinations worldwide, helping owners navigate complex international regulations every day.
What Is a Pet Passport?
A Pet Passport is an official document that records important information about your pet, including:
- Microchip details
- Rabies vaccinations
- Tapeworm treatments where required
- Owner information
- Veterinary certification
For many years, UK-issued Pet Passports allowed pets to travel freely between the UK and EU member states.
However, following Brexit and subsequent regulatory changes, Great Britain no longer issues EU Pet Passports.
New UK Pet Passport Rules Explained
Many pet owners are confused by recent changes.
Since April 2026, EU-issued pet passports held by GB residents can no longer be used as the primary travel document for journeys from Great Britain into the European Union.
This means most UK pet owners travelling from England, Scotland or Wales to the EU will now require an Animal Health Certificate for each trip unless they qualify under specific residency or registration circumstances.
Northern Ireland continues to operate under different arrangements.
Because regulations can change, it is always advisable to check the latest requirements before booking travel.
What Is an Animal Health Certificate (AHC)?
An Animal Health Certificate is an official veterinary certificate that allows pets to travel from Great Britain to:
- EU countries
- Northern Ireland (in some circumstances)
- Switzerland
- Norway
- Certain other listed countries
The certificate must be completed by an Official Veterinarian (OV).
What Does an AHC Include?
The certificate confirms that your pet:
- Is microchipped
- Has a valid rabies vaccination
- Meets the destination country’s health requirements
What Does an AHC Include?
The certificate confirms that your pet:
- Is microchipped
- Has a valid rabies vaccination
- Meets the destination country’s health requirements
How Long Is an AHC Valid?
An Animal Health Certificate:
- Is valid for entry into the EU for 10 days from the date of issue
- Allows onward travel within the EU for up to four months
- Covers return travel to Great Britain within that four-month period
A new AHC is required for each new trip originating from Great Britain.
When Would You Need an AHC?
Examples include:
- Taking your dog on holiday to France
- Travelling with your cat to Spain
- Driving to Italy with your pet
- Relocating temporarily within Europe
What Is an Export Health Certificate (EHC)?
An Export Health Certificate is a more detailed veterinary document used when pets travel to destinations outside the EU and listed European countries.
Different countries have different EHC requirements.
For example:
- Australia requires extensive import preparations and permits
- New Zealand has strict biosecurity regulations
- Singapore has specific veterinary certification requirements
- The UAE has import permit and health certificate requirements
- South Africa requires country-specific health documentation
Unlike an AHC, there is no single standard Export Health Certificate.
Each destination has its own official certificate format and supporting requirements. For a detailed guide on EHCs, click here to read our related blog on them.
An EHC is also required for commercial pet travel to Europe. It is therefore important to know if pets and owners are travelling together. If they are, the required documents must be in the owners name. Speak to one of our team today – we can advise on what documentation you need.
What’s Included in an Export Health Certificate?
Depending on the destination, an EHC may require:
- Clinical health examinations
- Rabies vaccination certification
- Rabies blood testing
- Additional laboratory testing
- Parasite treatments
- Government endorsement
- Import permits
- Supporting declarations
Many destinations require preparation months before travel.
This is why early planning is critical.
You can click here to read our country-by-country EHC guidance in our blog, to learn more about how they differ between destination.
Animal Health Certificate vs Export Health Certificate
Many owners assume the two documents are interchangeable, but they serve very different purposes.
| Animal Health Certificate | Export Health Certificates |
|---|---|
| Primarily for EU and listed European destinations | Primarily for non-EU destinations |
| Standardised format | Country-specific formats |
| Usually simpler requirements | Often complex requirements |
| Valid for specific travel periods | Validity varies by destination |
| Suitable for holidays and short-term travel | Commonly used for relocations and international moves |
Which Document Does My Pet Need?
The answer depends entirely on your destination.
Travelling to France, Spain, Italy or Germany?
Usually an Animal Health Certificate.
Moving to Australia, New Zealand or South Africa?
Usually an Export Health Certificate.
Unsure?
Professional advice is strongly recommended, as requirements can change and mistakes may affect travel plans.
Tips for Stress-Free Pet Travel
- Start Planning Early
Some countries require preparation several months before departure.
- Check Rabies Vaccination Dates
Rabies vaccinations must remain valid throughout the travel process.
- Ensure Microchip Information Is Correct
The microchip must be implanted before the rabies vaccination is administered.
- Work With Experienced Pet Travel Specialists
International pet travel involves multiple regulations, airline requirements and veterinary procedures. PetAir help make sure you meet all the specific requirements, taking the stress out of pet travel.
- Keep Digital and Printed Copies
Always carry copies of all travel documents. Original physical documents are required for your pets journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still get a UK pet passport?
No. Great Britain no longer issues EU Pet Passports. Most UK pet owners travelling to the EU will require an Animal Health Certificate.
Do I need a new Animal Health Certificate every time I travel?
Yes. An Animal Health Certificate is issued for a specific journey and must be renewed for future trips originating from Great Britain.
Is an Export Health Certificate the same as an Animal Health Certificate?
No. An Animal Health Certificate is primarily for travel to EU and certain European destinations, while Export Health Certificates are used for many destinations outside Europe.
How much does an Animal Health Certificate cost?
Costs vary depending on the veterinary practice and circumstances. It is best to obtain a quote in advance.
How early should I arrange my pet’s travel paperwork?
Ideally several months before travel, especially if an Export Health Certificate, import permit or rabies blood test is required.
Can PetAir help with Animal Health Certificates and Export Health Certificates?
Yes. PetAir’s vet-led team can guide owners through every stage of the documentation process, ensuring pets meet all destination requirements.
Need Help Understanding Your Pet’s Travel Documents?
Whether you’re travelling to France with your dog, relocating your cat to Australia, or simply trying to understand the latest UK pet passport rules, getting the paperwork right is essential.
Our experienced team can help ensure your pet’s journey goes smoothly from start to finish.
Get in touch or request a quick quote online.
Our specialists will help you understand exactly which certificates, vaccinations and travel requirements apply to your pet’s destination.
