- Age in Spain Team
Bringing your pet to Spain from the UK
Updated: Feb 8
Regarding pet travel regulations, from 1 January 2021, the UK has become a Part 2 listed country in relation to the EU.
What does it mean to be a Part 2 listed country?
The UK has become a Part 2 listed country, which means there will be some extra requirements for pet owners travelling to the EU. The following requirements will have to be met when bringing your pet to the EU:
Microchip
Rabies vaccination 21 days before travel.
An Animal Health Certificate (obtained from the vet no more than 10 days before travel) confirming that your pet has both the microchip and rabies vaccination. You will have to get a new certificate for every trip to the EU - or -
A valid EU pet passport or one accepted by Spain from your country of origin ( BUT NOT one issued in Great Britain - England, Wales and Scotland).
When entering the EU, you will have to go through a Traveller’s Point of Entry (TPE) where your pet’s Animal Health Certificate will be checked to confirm its compliance with EU regulations. Find a list of the Spanish TPE here.
Living with your pet in Spain
If you have an EU pet passport issued by an EU Member State, it can be used to travel to other EU countries or to bring the pet back to the UK. But if the pet has a UK-issued pet passport, you need to check with a vet whether it is compliant with EU Pet Travel Regulations. For most people residing in an EU country the UK Government recommends that you register your pet with an EU pet passport from the EU country where you live.
If you live in the EU or travel often between the UK and the EU with your pet, one way to be prepared is to get an EU pet passport from your host EU country.
Most importantly, you should find an official vet that can guide you through the process and give you proper guidance. Check this website for details of official vets.
The UK Government has a useful helpline for pet owners:
Email: pettravel@apha.gov.uk
Telephone: 0370 241 1710 Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 5pm (closed on bank holidays)
And visit this website for regularly updated information.