UK Pet Passports Invalid for EU Travel from April 22

New EU regulations took effect on April 22, requiring British pet owners traveling from England, Scotland, or Wales to obtain an Animal Health Certificate for dogs, cats, and ferrets entering any of the bloc's member states, rendering existing EU pet passports invalid for outbound journeys.

The change, part of the EU's Animal Health Law implemented after a decade-long transition, closes a post-Brexit loophole that allowed UK residents to use pet passports issued by EU-based veterinarians. Previously, these lifelong documents facilitated multiple trips without additional paperwork, but they are now restricted to individuals whose primary residence is in the EU, excluding holiday home owners and seasonal visitors. Pets presenting such passports at EU borders risk refusal of entry, according to guidance on the GOV.UK website. The rules also apply to assistance animals.

To comply, owners must have a licensed veterinarian issue the AHC within 10 days of departure from Great Britain. Each trip to the EU requires a fresh certificate, though it remains valid for up to six months of onward travel within the bloc and for re-entry to Britain, provided rabies vaccinations are current....