How to Transport Pets to the EU From Unlisted Countries

Pets traveling to the EU from a country that the EU considers 'unlisted' can still carry out a safe move, however, a little more planning time may be necessary.

The process usually takes about four months from start to finish, and with careful research and the help of a pet transport expert, everything can be carried out smoothly.

How to Start

First, check with an official source (such as the Ministry of Agriculture) to find out where your country stands. If you learn that you're traveling to your destination from an 'unlisted country' (as opposed to a listed country) you’ll need to be aware of several specific details in order to plan a streamlined pet relocation.

Create a Timeline

Because the requirements are a little more complex, it's advised to allow about 120 days to carry out the pet travel preparation process to the EU when coming from an unlisted country. With this time, you and your pet transport coordinator will be less rushed and more likely to put together a smooth move for all involved.

Requirements and Vaccines

Unlisted country requirements include a microchip, rabies vaccine, titer test, and a three month wait to ensure the rabies vaccine was effective. (The titer test in particular is what makes this process more intensive, as pet travelers going to many other countries will never need to complete this step.) Each part of this process must be carried out correctly and in the right order.

Is There a Quarantine?

Contrary to what many pet owners may think, quarantine can be avoided if all requirements are carried out correctly. Choosing to enlist the help of a pet travel expert will minimize the risk of complications and mistakes, and should anything go wrong, they’ll be there to make it right.

Possible Roadblocks

• It’s important that your pet’s rabies titer test is completed at an approved lab, so double-check this status before getting started.

• Bringing pets to the EU means following a “five day rule” -- pets must enter five days before or after their owner for the move to avoid being classified as commercial (which would present additional requirements).

Advice for All Pet Travelers

• If they’re not already acclimated to the kennel, it’s very important to spend time crate training your dog or cat in the weeks before you move.

• Choose a pet friendly airline. Some carriers have better pet programs than others, so make sure to choose one known for treating pets with a high level of care. (PetRelocation often uses Lufthansa and KLM for pet air travel to the EU.)

• Be sure to discuss any health related questions with your vet, and remember that sedation is not recommended or allowed. Instead, focus on crate training and make sure your pet is well-exercised, fit and hydrated before traveling.

Ready to start planning safe pet transport to the EU? Contact our team to get started.