Bringing Pets to the UK.

Moving to the UK is an exciting new chapter. And for many people, leaving a beloved pet behind simply isn’t an option. The good news is that you can bring your pets to the UK, but the process is tightly regulated and must be followed carefully.

Missing a single requirement can result in delays, additional fees, or even quarantine. This guide explains everything you need to know about bringing your dog or cat to the UK, including legal requirements, costs, travel logistics, and what happens on arrival.

Can you bring your pet to the UK? 

Yes, you can bring up to 5 pets if you follow the official rules. 

The UK allows many types of pets, but each animal type has its own set of travel rules. The current list of animals permitted includes: 

• Birds 
• Cats 
• Dogs 
• Ferrets 
• Fish 
• Frogs 
• Insects 
• Rabbits 
• Reptiles 
• Rodents 

Cats, dogs, and ferrets can enter from most countries through the Pet Travel Scheme. The aim is to prevent the spread of rabies and other diseases while keeping the process as safe and smooth as possible for the animal. 

Other pets have separate travel rules, which will depend on whether you’re coming from inside or outside the EU. It’s best to check with your local airport and the Government website to get the correct information about bringing a pet to the UK. 

With careful preparation, your pet can join you on your new adventure without stress or risk. 

Step-by-step requirements for cats, dogs and ferrets 

1. Microchipping 

• Your pet must be microchipped before or on the same day as their rabies vaccination 
• The procedure must be done by a qualified person 
• The microchip must be ISO-compliant (15-digit number) 
• It must be readable on arrival – ask your vet to scan it before you travel 
• If the chip is unreadable or implanted after the rabies vaccine, your pet may be refused entry, and you will have to go through the process again 

2. Rabies vaccination 

• Once microchipped, your pet must be vaccinated against rabies. 
• Pets must be at least 12 weeks old to receive the vaccine 
• Wait 21 days after the primary vaccination before travel (day of vaccine is day 0) 
• You must have a record of the vaccinations 

If you’re coming from a country outside the EU, your pet must also have a rabies blood test at least 30 days after vaccination. Ensure you plan well ahead of time to ensure your dates align. 

3. Pet travel documents 

Your pet will need official paperwork proving its vaccination and health status. The type depends on where you are travelling from: 

• EU or a listed country: A valid EU pet passport is accepted 
• Great Britain to the EU and back: An Animal Health Certificate (AHC) issued within 10 days of travel (valid for one trip and up to 4 months for re-entry) 
• Other countries: A GB pet health certificate from a government-approved vet, issued within 10 days of travel 

Tip: Check that the microchip number, vaccination dates, and pet details match exactly across all documents. Small errors can cause delays. 

4. Tapeworm treatment (dogs only) 

If you are bringing a dog, it must be treated for tapeworm before arriving in the UK. 

• Treatment must be given by a vet 24 to 120 hours (1–5 days) before arrival – this is time sensitive to the hour 
• The vet must record this in your pet’s travel documents 

This requirement doesn’t apply if you are travelling directly from Northern Ireland, Finland, Norway, or Malta 

Banned or restricted Animals in the UK 

The UK has strict laws on certain breeds of dog under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991. It is illegal to own, sell, or bring the following breeds into the UK without a specific exemption from a court: 

• Pit Bull Terrier 
• Japanese Tosa 
• Dogo Argentino 
• Fila Brasileiro 
• XL Bully (England and Wales) 

Even crossbreeds or dogs that appear physically similar can be seized for assessment. If found to be a banned type, they can be taken away and put to sleep, unless a court allows them to be kept under strict conditions. 

Important: If your dog could be mistaken for one of these breeds, seek advice before attempting to travel. 

There are also restrictions on some exotic animals, such as reptiles, primates, and other “dangerous wild animals”. These require a special licence from your local council and are subject to strict welfare checks. 

Transporting your pet to the UK 

Pets cannot travel in the passenger cabin to the UK (with very few exceptions for assistance dogs). Instead, they must: 

• Travel as “manifest cargo” in a secure, climate-controlled part of the plane 
• Arrive using an approved airline on an approved route under the UK Pet Travel Scheme 
• Enter through an approved UK airport such as Heathrow, Gatwick, or Manchester 

Your pet will need an IATA-compliant travel crate that is big enough for them to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. The airline must approve the crate before travel. 

Tip: Book flights well in advance. Not all airlines offer pet cargo services, and spaces are limited. 

If you’re travelling by Eurotunnel, you need to check with the company you’re travelling with. 

Will my pet be okay on a plane? 

It’s natural to worry about how your pet will cope with flying, especially as they must travel in the aircraft’s hold rather than with you.  

Most pets adapt well, and airlines transport animals in a secure, climate-controlled area separate from luggage. However, the experience can still be unfamiliar and stressful for them. 

You can help prepare your pet by gradually getting them used to their travel crate well before the flight, feeding them inside it, letting them rest in it, and taking them on short car journeys in it.  

On the day of travel, you can include a familiar blanket or soft item that smells like home. It may also benefit them if they’ve had exercise and a light meal a few hours before departure.  

Many pet owners consider giving their pets calming medication. It’s always best to speak to a vet about your travel arrangements so they can help you arrange tailored and safe support. 

Arrival in the UK: What to expect 

When your pet lands in the UK: 

• They will go through a pet reception centre for document and identity checks 
• Staff will scan their microchip and check their paperwork 
• If everything is in order, they will release your pet to you or your authorised agent 
• If something is missing or incorrect, your pet could be quarantined or sent back at your expense 

Most pet reception centres also charge a clearance fee, which you must pay before collection.

Costs to budget for 

Costs vary depending on your country of departure, your pet’s size, and the services you use. When you are researching prices, you should consider: 

• Microchip 
• Rabies vaccination 
• Rabies blood test  
• Health certificate 
• Cargo flight 
• UK pet clearance fee  

Tip: Many people use professional pet relocation services, which can coordinate flights, paperwork, and customs clearance on your behalf. 

Common mistakes to avoid 

• Not microchipping before the rabies vaccine 
• Missed waiting periods or incorrect dates on documents 
• Using non-approved airlines or routes 
• Travelling more than 5 days apart from your pet (this makes the move “commercial” and far more complex) 

Key tips for a smooth journey 

• Plan months ahead, especially if your pet needs a rabies blood test 
• Use approved airlines and routes listed on the UK Government website 
• Double-check documents – every date and number must match 
• Consider relocation specialists if you’re short on time or want peace of mind 

Bringing pets to the UK 

Bringing your pet to the UK takes time and organisation, but it’s entirely achievable. By following the rules carefully, you can ensure your pet joins you safely, ready to enjoy their new home by your side. 

If you’re planning a move to the UK, our specialist immigration team can guide you through the process. 

Contact Britton and Time Solicitors today for expert legal support with your relocation.