Moving pets to Italy? Our team of experts is here to assist you and ensure that every aspect of your pet travel to Italy is as stress-free as possible, allowing you to concentrate on the human side of your move. When moving to Italy with a dog or cat, it’s important to follow rules specified by both Italy itself and the European Union. Our experts can help you navigate Italy's pet travel requirements to help your move be as smooth and safe as possible.
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What to Know Before Transporting Dogs and Cats to Italy
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Microchip and Vaccinations
Make sure your pet meets these basic requirements so you can begin the import process.
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Import Documentation
The EU requires endorsed import documentation that your veterinarian must complete before shipping pets to Italy.
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The 5-Day Rule (and more)
Have you heard about the EU 5-Day Rule? Learn about this and other factors that could affect your pet's relocation to Italy.
Italy Pet Import Requirements and Timeline
Basia: US to Italy
Microchip and Vaccinations
Time frame: we recommend starting at least 30 days ahead
If transporting your pets to Italy, it's important to note that all pets must be microchipped and vaccinated before entry. This ensures your pet remains safe and healthy before, during, and after their move. It can also give you peace of mind that your pet will be protected in their new home.
Please read below to ensure import compliance with the specific details and requirements.
How to start the process of transporting your pet to Italy
Before moving pets to Italy, you need to ensure they are microchipped and vaccinated.
Each pet shall be identified using a microchip.
- No other form of identification is acceptable.
- The microchip should comply with ISO Standard 11784 or Annex A to ISO Standard 11785. Italy currently accepts AVID-9 and AVID-10 in addition to ISO. The microchip must be implanted before the rabies vaccine is administered.
- All pets must have an original Rabies Certificate signed by the vet. The Rabies vaccine must be at least 21 days old during the final health exam.
Further details regarding the rabies vaccine:
- Pets may be transported to Italy with a current one-year vaccine (also known as a “primary” vaccine).
- Pets may be transported to Italy with a 3-year vaccine administered less than a year ago (otherwise, it may be considered a booster).
Other recommended vaccines include:
- Dogs: Distemper, Hepatitis, Leptospirosis, Parainfluenza and Parvovirus (DHLPP) and Bordetella.
- Cats: Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus and Panleukopenia (FVRCP).
These should be valid at the time of import and administered no less than two weeks before the export date for maximum effectiveness.
Jack and Remi: US to Italy
Import Documentation
Time frame: Within 10 days prior to departure (non-commercial)
As part of our services, we provide detailed templates for your veterinarian to ensure all forms are completed properly. This is an extremely important step for bringing pets to Italy. It’s essential to obtain these documents within the timeframe to prevent any delay at customs that could impact your move.
Additionally, our team is available to answer any questions you or your veterinarian may have throughout the process.
Proper paperwork prevents hangups at customs
EU Health Certificate
Your dedicated relocation coordinator will provide you with an EU Health Certificate that your accredited veterinarian must fill out and sign in a different color ink than the certificate's printing, usually blue ink.
This certificate is valid for ten days from the date of issue by the official veterinarian until the date of the checks at the EU point of entry. If you plan to travel further within the EU, don't hesitate to contact us for additional guidance.
USDA Endorsements
To ensure compliance with the USDA regulations, the following forms below must be sent to your local USDA for approval.
- Microchip Implantation Record
- Rabies Certificate
- EU Vet Health Certificate
- Airline Health Certificate
It's important to note that these forms should be readily available from your vet, but it's recommended to call ahead and confirm availability.
- Remember that your vet must complete the EU Health Certificate within ten days of departure.
- However, please note that this timeframe changes within the context of a commercial move, where additional requirements may apply.
- Read below for more information on the 5-day rule and commercial move requirements.
Gus: US to Italy
The 5-Day Rule (and more)
Important information to keep your move on track.
Before you bring your dog or cat to Italy, make sure you're aware of regulations unique to the EU! The EU implements strict pet shipping requirements that can affect the cost and timeline of your move.
What to know about about commerical moves and breed bans
EU 5-Day Rule
If your dog or cat is being transported "non-commercially," they must fly within five days of their owner.
If you cannot meet this 5-Day Rule, the move can still be carried out, but it will be considered a commercial move, which increases costs and changes the EU import requirements and timeline. In such cases, you will need to meet stricter import requirements.
Banned breeds in Italy
Italy’s dog entry requirements are also strict when it comes to banned breeds. Unfortunately, not all dog breeds are allowed in this country. You may not be able to bring your pet if they are one of the following breeds (or a mix of one):
- Rottweilers and Doberman Pinschers: Venice Only
Export and transit are not affected by this ban.
Unlisted Countries and Additional Requirements
If you come from an "unlisted country," your pet will need a rabies antibody test, also known as a titer. In this case, you must follow the below steps:
- Microchip and rabies vaccination (at least 30 days old before blood draw)
- Rabies antibody test performed by an accredited veterinarian and sent to an EU-approved laboratory.
- Before completing export paperwork, you must wait 90 days after the blood draw (assuming a passing result).
