How to Get an EU Pet Passport (And Why Americans Still Need a Vet Visit)
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Traveling through Europe with your dog sounds like a dream to dog lovers, until you realize the paperwork isn’t nearly as dreamy. Here’s how to get an EU Pet Passport for Americans.
What Is An EU Pet Passport?
A pet passport is just what it sounds like (mostly). It’s a passport that allows your pet to enter and stay in a particular country. You have to have this for your pet to be in a new country, and you cannot take your time getting either. It must happen pretty quickly upon entering a new country.
This passport contains a record of your pet’s vaccines (in a way that EU countries will accept), as well as your pet’s microchip information (which must also have a certain amount of numbers. Older microchips may not qualify, so you’ll need to stay on top of that before you leave).
A pet passport basically makes your pet legal in the EU. But just know that there will still be different requirements for different countries. A few of them are similar enough to allow free travel, but others are not. So always be prepared to see a vet before you cross boarders. Better safe than stuck in quarantine!
What An EU Pet Passport Isn’t
Unlike a human passport, you cannot use a pet passport to travel to any country without further paperwork. So if you plan to travel to different countries, you’ll need to visit a vet prior to entering a new country every time. Think of it as your pet going through customs to get their passport stamp. Every country has it’s own pet requirements, so you cannot skip this step.
When I arrived in Europe, I assumed that a pet passport would let my dog travel anywhere in Europe with just her passport. I ended up stuck in Italy panicked that she would end up in quarantine because I didn’t have the right stamp in her passport for Italy.
Why U.S. Pet Owners Still Need a Vet Visit First
Obviously, the US is not part of the EU, so your pet’s first EU entry will come with some very strict rules. You also cannot see just any vet. The vet you see must be USDA certified, and must go through some very specific routines to certify your pet to USDA standards. Some will require a microchip upgrade, some will require shots, and some will require just the necessary paperwork that only a USDA certified vet can get for you. (Hint: You will find most of them in bigger cities. It’s not a common certification).
Once you’ve seen the vet and they have submitted the paperwork (which must happen within a certain time frame before you board your plane, the USDA will send you the USDA certified paperwork which must remain with you at all times. Then you must take that to an EU vet once you arrive to get you pet’s passport. At this visit, they may receive more medication.
Pet Parent Tip: The stress of travel + new medications can be quite stressful for your pet. Come prepared for them to have accidents and possibly quite a bit of diarrhea. It’s not pleasant, but it’s the reality. Ask me how I know…
Once you have the passport, there may be instances where you still need the USDA paperwork, particularly when crossing boarders. So be sure to keep that with you until you are 1000% sure that the pet passport officially has all the stamps it needs from various countries. Better safe than sorry (like I was!).
You should contact the USDA vet well ahead of your trip so that you can plan the timing of your pet’s visits properly. The window for all of this to take place is so short that there is very little chance you’ll be able to do this last minute. I’m sure it’s been done, but I wouldn’t want to ever be in the position of needing to go through that process last minute. The stress!
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Your EU Pet Passport (Post-Arrival)
- Get Your Pet Microchipped (must be ISO-compliant)
- Have Up-to-Date Rabies Vaccine – (this is best done by the USDA vet if possible because WHEN your pet is vaccinated matters for certification)
- Book a Local Vet Appointment in Your New EU Country – Try to do this before you leave so that you can get your pet into the EU vet within the first day or two of arriving.
- Bring Your U.S. Health Certificate + Rabies Proof
- Vet issues the EU Pet Passport — often same-day or within a few days. MAKE SURE TO KEEP PHOTOS OF EVERY SINGLE PAGE INCLUDING THE FRONT AND BACK COVERS OF YOUR PET’S VISA.
- Use it for all future EU travel (valid for life with updated rabies records)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Arriving in the EU without USDA endorsement. You won’t make it past customs if you try.
- Vaccinating before microchipping (order matters!)
- Assuming the EU passport can be issued before arrival
- Not keeping rabies vaccine up-to-date (passport becomes invalid)
Which Countries Require Extra Steps?
While an EU Pet Passport allows your pet to travel through Europe, a few destinations have their own extra rules, even if they’re geographically in the EU zone. Here’s what to watch out for when planning cross-border travel with your furry friend.
United Kingdom (England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland)
The UK is no longer part of the EU, so your pet will need:
- A valid EU Pet Passport or animal health certificate (Best to have both if you are from the States. This is the USDA paperwork.)
- Tapeworm treatment given by a vet 24–120 hours before entry (dogs only)
- Travel through an approved route and carrier (ferries and Eurostar are strict)
Norway
- Not in the EU, but follows most EU pet travel rules.
- Tapeworm treatment is also required before entry (dogs only).
- Check border crossing hours — not all allow pets.
Switzerland
Switzerland isn’t in the EU but is part of the Schengen Zone.
EU Pet Passports are usually accepted — but customs agents may ask to see rabies proof or microchip info.
Travelers have occasionally reported extra questions at border crossings.
Iceland
They are very strict. You’ll need:
- Pre-approval from Icelandic Food & Veterinary Authority
- Quarantine upon arrival (minimum 14 days)
- Detailed forms submitted well in advance
Tip: Iceland with pets is beautiful but complicated. Most travelers leave pets behind for this one.
Crossing Back Into the EU With An EU Pet Passport
If you leave the EU (even briefly), you’ll need to show proof of rabies again when re-entering. Make sure:
- Rabies shots are current and listed in the passport
- You’re aware of any tapeworm rules for the country you’re returning to.
Bottom Line
Your EU Pet Passport covers most of continental Europe, but always double-check the requirements ahead of time for every country (Even in the EU). Especially:
- The UK
- Norway
- Switzerland
- Iceland
- Any re-entry into the EU
A little research now saves a lot of stress later — and keeps your travel safe and smooth.
Final Tips for American Pet Parents in the EU
- Get in touch with a USDA vet as soon as you know that travel is likely. Time will be your biggest friend here. They can guide you through the specific (and very particular) timetable.
- Keep printed + digital copies and backups of everything.
- Schedule your EU vet appointment in the first few days after arrival.
- Join expat pet groups for country-specific support.
- Make sure you find that delicate balance of a crate or pet carrier that works for the airline AND for your pet. Do this well ahead of time. But always pick the smallest crate that is comfortable for your pet. This will give you the broadest use between airlines because they all seem to have different pet carrier requirements.
- Take a collapsible water bowl that attaches right to your pet carrier or your bag.
- Research where you can purchase pet food ahead of time so you are prepared. Not all TSA locations will let you through with pet food. (Ask me how I know!).
It’s Worth It?
If you are going on a longer trip, then yes. Getting an EU pet passport worth it. For shorter trips, it’s best to leave your paw pal at home. The stress on them won’t be of any benefit to them or you. But for longer trips, absolutely, it’s worth it.
Tip: Make sure your pet has the temperament for travel. Not all pets do. If they don’t, it’s best to leave them home because your pet won’t be the only one suffering on your trip.
But at the end of the day, there’s nothing more beautiful than watching your dog nap under a cafe table in Paris (legally, of course!)
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Further Reading
