Moving Abroad With Pets | William Russell

Moving abroad doesn’t mean you need to give up your pets. Every year, more than 4 million pets travel internationally, with 37% of pet owners saying they’ve taken their pets overseas. In fact, bookings for pet travel are now more popular than ever, having increased more than a third since the pandemic.

While there are a few hoops to jump through, many people have no problem moving their pets with them to a foreign country. In this guide, we’ll outline a few steps you need to take and the things you need to keep in mind in order to safely and comfortably move your pet to a foreign country.

Preparing to move abroad with pets

So, you’re moving abroad, and you’d like to take your pet(s) with you. The good news is, this is usually a straightforward process. The bad news is, there are some exceptions where you may find it more difficult, or even impossible.

The camp you and your pet fall into depends on a number of factors, including:

The pet import laws in your destination country
The species, and breed of your pet
Whether your pet is microchipped and vaccinated
The age and health of your pet
Whether or not your pet has complex needs, e.g. requires specific temperatures to survive
The availability of specialist transportation to move your pet, especially over long distances

As you can see, the challenges you may face will depend on the laws about bringing pets into your new home country, and the logistics of moving your pet. If you are moving to the other side of the world via plane, it may be very difficult to bring your beloved pet with you.

So, in order to prepare for moving your pet abroad, there are a few things you’ll need to do in advance.

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1/ Check the local laws in your new country around importing pets

Every country will have its own rules and regulations about the import of pets. The rules you encounter will change depending on the species and breed of animal you are importing, and the country you are moving from. The rules will be subject to change based on the emergence of new criteria – for instance, during the COVID-19 pandemic, it became much harder for people to move their pets from one country to another.

If you can’t find up-to-date information about pet import laws online, you may wish to consult the nearest embassy or consulate of your destination country.

2/ Make sure your pet is up-to-date with vaccinations

All countries require proof of an up-to-date rabies vaccination for animals such as cats, dogs and ferrets. The GOV.UK website states that your pet must be at least 12 weeks old before it is eligible to receive a rabies vaccination, and that you must wait at least 21 days after your pet has received its vaccination until it is ready to travel.

Most countries will also require evidence that your pet has been vaccinated against diseases including distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus and leptospirosis. In the case of leptospirosis, your pet may need to undergo testing in your home country 30 days prior to your departure, before it can be deemed eligible to travel.

There may also be other vaccinations your pet requires before it is eligible to travel. Check with your destination country’s embassy or consulate to understand the laws around pet vaccinations. For instance, EU countries specify that pets must be treated against the tapeworm Echinococcus multilocularis.

3/ Get your pet microchipped

At the same time your pet receives its rabies vaccination, you should also have it microchipped. A microchip contains a unique number that can be used by veterinarians around the world to identify your pet and connect it to its universal medical records, including records of vaccinations.

A microchip also holds contact information about you, the owner, meaning it can be used to help identify your pet if it is lost or stolen. In many countries, it is a legal requirement that your pet must be microchipped.

4/ Apply for an International Health Certificate

After completing its vaccinations and having been microchipped, your veterinarian will be able to issue your pet with an International Health Certificate (IHC). This will document your pet’s vaccinations records and medical history, as well its date of birth, weight, breed, microchip number, owner’s contact details and the pet’s name. IHCs are valid for up to four months, and can be used for any onward travel during this time. You may need to pay a fee to acquire an IHC from your vet.

You will need to submit your pet’s IHC at least 10–15 days before travelling, both to the customs authorities of the country you intend to travel to, and the couriers or airline who are responsible for relocating your pet. Failure to submit a complete and notarised IHC may result in your pet being denied entry.

5/ Get a pet passport

If you would like something a bit more permanent than an IHC, you may be able to apply for a pet passport. Some countries issue these passports in lieu of IHCs, and they are valid for between one year to the entire life of your pet (so long as it continues to receive its full course of inoculations).

Not all countries accept pet passports, so you may still need to acquire a separate IHC depending on where you are travelling. On the other hand, some countries actually require your pet to have a passport.

If you are moving to a country that accepts pet passports, it’s advised you apply for the scheme ahead of time. Pet passports contain the microchip details, vaccination records and notes from the animal’s veterinarian. You may need to pay a small fee to be issued a pet passport.

The pet passport for the country you intend to move to may be different from the typical Pet Travel Scheme (PeTS) passport, so make sure you research ahead of time if, and what form of pet passport to apply for.

Which countries require a pet passport?

The pet passport scheme is used across the European Union, but many other countries accept and/or require a pet passport. They include:

All EU countries

Iceland

Liechtenstein

Norway

Switzerland

United Kingdom

Andorra

Gibraltar

Greenland

Faroe Islands

Monaco

San Marino

Vatican City

Australia

New Zealand

Canada

United States

Japan*

*Taking a pet into Japan?

While Japan is a participant of the PeTS scheme and requires pets to have a pet passport, it has its own separate requirements. Japan is notoriously strict when it comes to importing pets, requiring all incoming animals to undergo an extensive quarantine period. If you are taking your pet with you to Japan, you must prepare in advance to undergo this process.

Before travelling, you must ensure your pet is microchipped, that it has had at least two rabies inoculations, and a blood test within six months of travelling to prove it is rabies-free, and it must not be displaying any symptoms of rabies or leptospirosis when it arrives. Your pet must also have resided in one country for at least 180 days prior to travelling.

You must contact the Animal Quarantine Service (AQS) in Japan prior to travelling to state your intentions to import a pet. The AQS will assess your pet at the border when you enter. If your pet displays any symptoms of illness, it will be quarantined at a detention facility for up to 180 days.

Failure to comply with Japan’s pet import laws could net you a fine up to ¥50,000,000/US$355,000.

What if I can’t get a pet passport?

Pet passports are not accepted in many countries, and are not available for certain species including birds, small mammals and reptiles. If you are travelling to a country that does not accept pet passports, and/or you intend to travel with an animal that cannot be given a pet passport, you will need to import the animal like any other form of live cargo. For this, you will need to ensure your pet has an Export Health Certificate (EHC) signed by a vet, or a private health certificate where these are not available.

6/ Apply for an import permit

Another document you may need, especially if you are moving outside of Europe or North America, is an import permit. In order to obtain this, you will need to visit the government website of the country you are moving to and complete a form, submitting details of your pet’s vaccination and medical history while also paying a fee. You will need to display a copy of this import permit at the border when you arrive in your new home country.

The process for applying for an import permit will vary depending on the country you are travelling to, so make sure to check well in advance. You will typically need to apply for an import permit at least 10–15 days before travelling.

In summary

When taking your pet abroad, you should begin by visiting your vet. They can provide the necessary vaccinations and microchipping, and help you get started with the necessary paperwork. You must also check with the embassy of the country you intend to travel to in order to find the relevant documentation to legally import your pet.

Make sure all paperwork is completed and submitted ahead of your planned travel date and that you comply with all laws, otherwise your pet may be turned away at the border, quarantined, or you could face a sizable fine.

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Questions to ask when moving your pet overseas

Once you have completed all the relevant paperwork, you will need to think about the logistics of moving your pet to a foreign country. Whether you intend to move your pet by land, sea or air, you will need to:

Prepare your pet for a lengthy journey
Consult your courier (if you are using one) to understand their policies
Embark your pet, and be ready to receive it
Understand the laws of all territories you intend to pass through, especially if travelling by land

Here are some things to think about in advance of moving your pet:

1/ How will you be transporting your pet?

Do you intend to move your pet yourself, for instance by travelling in a car? Or, will you be handing your pet over to a courier, such as an airline?

The mode of transportation you choose will inevitably put your pet under stress, so you may want to think about ways to make it easier.

If you’re moving your pet by car

Make sure your car is properly air conditioned, that your pet has a comfortable seat in a shady spot, and that you have enough food, water and medication for the journey.

Pets can often get anxious and travel sick on long journeys, so you should factor in several rest stops to give your pet time to stretch its legs and use the toilet.

If you’re moving your pet by plane

Every carrier has its own rules and requirements for the transport of animals and you may need to shop around to find an airline that will allow you to ship your pet. Many airlines (particularly those flying smaller aircraft) do not allow the transport of animals.

Others will allow pets to be transported in the cargo hold, for which they will usually provide a dedicated holding pen for your pet. Meanwhile some airlines, including KLM, Lufthansa and Air France, may allow you to take your pet with you in the cabin, so long as the pet is less than 8 kg and can fit inside a cabin bag

Before agreeing to ship a pet via air, you should be aware of your pet’s health and resilience. While most airlines regulate the temperature and climate of the cargo hold to around 18 degrees centigrade, and provide a specialist carrying case to suit your pet’s size and weight, you must still remember that your pet will be travelling alone for the duration of the flight.

If your pet requires regular feeding, medication, toilet cleaning, or is known to be anxious when separated, travelling by air may cause your pet distress. It’s therefore up to you to make sure your pet has a comfortable, suitable environment for the duration of its flight.

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There are other questions you may wish to ask yourself in advance of transporting your pet:

Is demand high? Airlines have limits on the number of pets that can be transported on each flight, so if you’re travelling in peak season, you may find spaces limited on board. Be sure to book well in advance to avoid disappointment.
Will your pet be transferring via connecting flights, and if so have you checked in advance on the rules and procedures about bringing pets through the connecting country/airport? And, does the connecting airline have different rules that you need to be aware of?
Will your pet be on the same flight as you, or will it be travelling alone? If so, does the airline or receiving country have rules around how quickly the pet must be collected when it has disembarked?
Will you require specialist travel insurance that covers you for loss or injury to your pet?

Remember…

You may need to pay additional fees to transport your pet via aircraft, and you will be subject to the carrier’s specifications and limitations.

These may cover: the species, breed, age, size, and general health of your pet; the type, location and contents of the container your pet will be transported in; how many pets each passenger is permitted to bring at one time; and whether or not an owner must be on the same flight.

If you’re moving your pet by boat

While many ferries allow pets on board, only a few liners and cruise ships do the same, so you should check with the shipping company to see what their rules around pets are. Those that do allow pets tend to provide pet facilities such as exercise areas on board, but you must be sure to bring your own supply of food and medication, especially if you will be making a long trip.

You should also be aware of the customs procedure at the opposite port, since you may encounter a less developed customs station than you would find in an airport. Make sure you have all relevant documentation with you, and that you understand the laws of the receiving country.

If your ship is scheduled to stop in countries that you do not have clearance for, you may need to leave your pet on-board if you wish to disembark. You should understand the ship’s rules regarding unattended pets if you will be leaving your pet alone.

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2/ Do you need an acclimation certificate?

An acclimation certificate may be required by airlines when they cannot guarantee the transfer of your pet in compliance with animal welfare guidelines in either your country of departure, destination country, and/or the country in which the aircraft is registered, or the International Air Transport Association’s Live Animal Regulations manual.

An acclimation certificate waives the airline’s liability in the case of injury, distress or death caused by the transport of your animal, and places the responsibility on your shoulders. If your airline requests an acclimation certificate, you will need to get one from a vet, who will assess your pet’s health, wellbeing and resilience in order to make a decision. Acclimation certificates are becoming rarer, but some airlines – particularly those in North America – still use them.

If your pet requires special attention

If your pet has special medical needs or requires medication, you may be excluded from transporting it via some commercial airlines.

However, do not give up hope – other options exist, including specialist pet transfer services.

3/ Are you prepared for the final leg of the journey?

It may sound simple, but something many pet owners forget is the final stage of the journey, i.e. the journey from the port/airport to your new front door.

For this, you may wish to organise a taxi in advance – specifically, one that will permit you to bring a pet with you. If this is not an option, you may instead wish to hire the services of a specialist local courier.

4/ Should you use a pet relocation company?

If you are unsure of your responsibilities, if you think your pet may require expert handling, or if you simply wish to take the stress out of moving your pet abroad, you may wish to speak to a pet relocation company. These are specialist companies that manage the transfer of pets overseas.

They may be able to handle the entire process on your behalf, including acquiring documentation, organising transport, ensuring your pet has a comfortable and safe journey, and receiving the pet in your new home country. These services don’t come cheap, but you may find them to be worth the price in return for all the headaches saved.

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Should I rehome my pet instead of taking it abroad?

In some cases, it may not be possible to take your pet with you. This is especially likely if:

Your pet is too old to travel
Your pet has complex health conditions that make it difficult to travel
Your pet is of a species or breed that is forbidden from entering your new home country
You are unable to adhere to the complex requirements in your new home country

You must also consider whether moving your pet to a different country would be inhumane and cause the pet unnecessary pain and distress. This may be the case if:

You are moving to a climate that the pet is not familiar with, and that its species or breed is not suited for
You are moving to a place where the wildlife poses a threat to your pet’s life
You are moving to a place where your pet’s complex needs cannot be satisfied by the local infrastructure. E.g., you will not be living near a vet who can provide your pet the medication it needs.

Furthermore, remember that moving your pet internationally may end up being a two-way journey. Your pet may be fit and healthy enough to travel today, but will they still be fine to travel home in a few years time?

If you feel it would be better to leave them at home, you may wish to consider rehoming your pet. This is a deeply personal choice, and one that many expats before you have had to make. Some expats have been lucky enough to have friends or family willing to take them on their behalf, while others have had to send their pet to a rescue facility. In either case, you must be ready to face this emotional choice.

If you go for the latter option, it’s important to speak to a reputable local facility. Try to find one that specialises in the species of your pet. Remember that if your pet is old and infirm, it may be more difficult to find a rescue facility willing to take them in.

You may also need to take your pet to the vet in order to have them vaccinated or microchipped before a rescue facility agrees to take them. Remember, if your pet is taken into a rescue facility, they may be put up for closed adoption, meaning you won’t be given details about the new owners and you may not be able to see your pet again.

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How to help your pet settle in

Once your pet has arrived safely, they may take several weeks to get used to its new surroundings. During this time, you may notice your pet’s behaviour change – they may seem skittish, reclusive or even angry. These are natural responses, and they are likely to get back to feeling themselves soon – still, there is plenty you can do to accelerate the process and help your pet settle in quicker.

1/ Make sure to pack home comforts

Your pet is likely to be sensitive to sights, smells and sounds that feel familiar. Therefore, you can help them feel more at home by surrounding them with objects brought from home. Whether it’s their favourite toys, blankets or snacks, or even the sofa they used to sleep on, try to ensure there is continuity between your old home and your new home.

2/ Stay close

Your pet is likely to feel much more anxious if it is both in a foreign place, and alone. Therefore, try to stay close to your pet (if you can) while it is still settling in. If you’re starting a new job, see if there is a ‘bring your pet’ policy. Your pet may exhibit more ‘needy’ behaviour, such as wanting cuddles – try to be sensitive and make time to reassure and soothe your pet as it settles in.

3/ Continue your routines

An especially important tip if you have moved to a new time zone is to continue your ordinary routines from home. For instance, try to continue feeding at the same times of day. This will help your pet experience a sense of normality, despite the alienness of its new surroundings.

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4/ Get out and about

Taking regular walks, letting your pet exercise in the garden, or getting it out of its habitat will help your pet to become acquainted with its new environment. As it builds up a profile of the sights, smells and sounds in its new home, they will start to adapt and feel more at home.

5/ Protect your pet

A new environment may present new dangers. The local wildlife may be more aggressive, local plants may be spikier and stingier, and periods of extreme hot or cold may all put your pet at risk. If your pet is constantly on edge against new threats, they will find it harder to settle in. Try to ensure your new home is a safe space for your pet by removing or reducing the risk of hazards.

6/ Give your pet a ‘safe space’

If your pet seems reclusive or anxious, they may be struggling to adapt to its new environment. In these cases, they may prefer the solitude of a secluded space. Try to make sure your pet has a cage, box or bed away from prying eyes where it can go to be alone. Keep this space out of reach of children to ensure your pet has time and space to rest and recuperate.

7/ Spoil your pet

If all else fails, you can always shower your pet with gifts, love and attention! New toys, rich food and a comfy new bed may help distract your pet, helping it to feel happy in spite of its new surroundings.

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Moving abroad with a pet: your final checklist

Planning to move abroad with your pet? Make sure you’ve checked off all the necessary things from this handy to-do list:

Preparing to move

☐ Have you checked the government policy about importing pets in the country you wish to move to?
☐ Is your pet over the required age for import (usually 6+ months)?
☐ Is your pet not on the list of banned species and breeds?
☐ Have you taken your pet to the vets to receive the necessary vaccinations?
☐ Have you had your pet microchipped?
☐ Have you applied for an International Health Certificate?
☐ Have you applied for a pet passport, if your destination country participates in this scheme?
☐ Have you applied for an import permit?

Logistics

☐ Have you decided how you will transport your pet? (E.g. land, sea, air)
☐ If going by land, have you checked the policy in any countries you intend to travel through?
☐ If going by sea, have you checked your shipping company’s pet transport policy?
☐ If going by air, have you checked your airline’s pet transport policy?
☐ If going by air, will you need to put your pet in the cargo hold?
☐ If your pet will go in cargo, is it prepared for the journey?
☐ Do you have enough food, water and medicine for your journey?
☐ Are you aware of the customs procedure for importing pets through the border?
☐ Do you have all the necessary paperwork to show at the border?
☐ Will you need an acclimation certificate?
☐ Have you planned the final leg of your journey?
☐ Have you considered using a professional pet relocation service?

Settling in

☐ Have you brought familiar toys and comforts from home to help your pet settle in?
☐ Does your new place of work allow you to bring pets?
☐ Have you created a new routine to give your pet a sense of normalcy?
☐ Have you made your new home safe and comfortable for your pet?
☐ Does your pet have a safe space in the house to relax and settle in?

Helping you move abroad since 1992

At William Russell, we have over 30 years’ experience helping expats just like you settle into their new lives overseas.

We don’t insure pets, but we do provide international health insurance for every other member of your family. With flexible coverage options, access to over 40,000 medical facilities worldwide, a 24/7 helpline, medical evacuation insurance as standard and much more, let us help take the stress out of your move.

Find out more about our international health insurance policies and get a quote online in under two minutes today.

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