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.
Make sure your pet meets these basic requirements so you can begin the import process.
The EU requires endorsed import documentation that your veterinarian must complete before shipping pets to Italy.
Have you heard about the EU 5-Day Rule? Learn about this and other factors that could affect your pet's relocation to Italy.
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.
Before moving pets to Italy, you need to ensure they are microchipped and vaccinated.
Each pet shall be identified using a microchip.
Further details regarding the rabies vaccine:
Other recommended vaccines include:
These should be valid at the time of import and administered no less than two weeks before the export date for maximum effectiveness.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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):
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: