defra pet travel ireland

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Bringing your pets into Ireland

Please select a species (from the tabs) and a country from the drop down list and click “search”. if your country is not listed, please select “other countries.

Select the country you and your pet are travelling from in the dropdown menu above to find out the requirements for entering Ireland

For information on bringing/importing a dog with cropped ears into Ireland, please see Ear-cropping of Dogs Regulations 2023 in the useful links section below

Useful Links

Advance Notice Portal

ear-cropping-of-dogs-regulations-2023

Special Arrangements for Ukraine and EU citizens in Russia

Guide and Assistance Dogs

Transiting Ireland with pet cat, dog or ferrets

Private Transport

Travelling or relocating out of Ireland with your pet

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Bringing pets to Ireland

Introduction, special rules for travellers from ukraine and eu citizens travelling from russia, cats, dogs and ferrets – eu travel, cats, dogs and ferrets – non eu travel, pet birds, rabbits and rodents, non-compliant pets, further information and contacts.

The importation of pets into Ireland is strictly controlled to ensure that diseases such as rabies are not introduced. The EU system of Passports for Pets allows cats, dogs and ferrets to travel between EU member states and some other countries that are part of the scheme.

The information in this document is about bringing a pet to Ireland, and is not about buying a pet abroad, or bringing animals into Ireland for commercial purposes .

For EU rules to apply, you must travel to Ireland with your pet.

If you are bringing a cat, dog or ferret from outside the EU (including the UK but not including Northern Ireland), you should follow the rules set out in ‘Cats, dogs and ferrets – non EU travel’ below.

From 21 November 2022, if you bring your pet to Ireland, you must comply with all the requirements for pets entering Ireland from outside the EU/EEA.

If your pet is not fully complaint, it will be put in quarantine. You must pay for the quarantine.

You can read about the current arrangements in Ukrainian and Russian .

If you are coming to Ireland from another EU country you should follow the steps below to bring your cat, dog (including guide dogs) or ferret with you to Ireland. These rules also apply to pets travelling from:

• Faroe Islands
• Lichtenstein
• Northern Ireland
• Switzerland
• Vatican City State

Different rules apply if you are:

• Buying a cat, dog or ferret abroad and having it shipped to Ireland
• Shipping your cat, dog or ferret back to Ireland unaccompanied
• Travelling to Ireland to sell a cat, dog or ferret
• Travelling with more than 5 pets
• Bringing your pet unaccompanied
• Travelling from outside the EU or from a country not listed above (see ‘Coming from outside the EU’ below)

Detailed information about these situations is on the Government's Pet Travel Portal.

The law governing the importation of cats, dogs and ferrets for non-commercial purposes is the Pet Travel (Cats, Dogs and Ferrets) Regulations 2020 .

Step 1 – Microchipping

Your cat, dog or ferret must be microchipped before it is vaccinated against rabies. The microchip must be readable by a device compatible with ISO standard 11785. If you or your vet is unsure about the specifications of the microchip, you should contact the microchip manufacturer. Alternatively, you can carry your own microchip reader with you which can be used on your pet.

Step 2 – Vaccination

Your pet must be vaccinated against rabies. The vaccine must be given after the microchip is inserted.

Your pet must be at least 12 weeks old when it is vaccinated. You must wait until the appropriate immunity has developed before you can bring the dog, cat or ferret to Ireland. This is the time as stated on the datasheet of the vaccination given, and must be at least 21 days after the primary vaccination is given.

The waiting period does not apply to booster vaccinations, provided they are given BEFORE the date the previous rabies vaccine has run out.

Step 3 – the pet passport

You need an EU pet passport issued by an EU country or one of the countries listed above, to enter Ireland. The pet passport must be stamped by a vet to show that the rabies vaccination has been given.

Step 4 – Tapeworm treatment

If you are bringing a dog into Ireland, it must be treated for tapeworm (Echinococcus multilocularis) each time you travel to Ireland, unless you are travelling from Northern Ireland, Finland, Malta or Norway. The treatment must be given by a vet between 1 and 5 days before you arrive in Ireland, and recorded in the pet passport.

Note : If you travel from Britain (not including Northern Ireland) with your pet after 1 January 2021, non EU rules apply. You must follow the following process even if your pet is returning to Ireland from Britain and was born and raised in Ireland. The rules for travelling from Northern Ireland have not changed.

If your pet does not have an EU pet passport (GB pet passports are no longer allowed, but NI pet passports are), you must have a health certificate issued by UK authorities. You can read more about travelling from Britain .

Step 3 – EU pet passport, or EU health certificate

If you have an EU pet passport the pet passport must be stamped by a vet registered in the EU to show that the rabies vaccination has been given. This is useful for Irish pets who are returning from holidays in a non-EU country.

If your cat, dog or ferret does not have a valid pet passport, you must get an EU Health Certificate signed and stamped by an official government veterinarian in the country you are travelling from..

After being checked and stamped on arrival into the EU, this Certificate is valid for 4 months, or until the anti-rabies vaccination expires – whichever is the earliest.

Step 4 – Blood test

Your cat, dog or ferret must get a blood test called a Rabies serological test, if they are from a country or territory that is not a listed country or territory . If your country is not listed in the drop down menu on the Pet Travel portal, your pet needs a rabies blood test.

You must wait at least 30 days from the rabies vaccination before your pet gets its blood tested. The sample must be sent to an EU approved laboratory.

The blood test must show that the vaccination was successful. If it is successful, you must wait a further 3 months from the taking of the blood sample before travelling to Ireland.

If your pet is starting it’s journey in the EU, (e.g. Ireland to Brazil and back again), you do not have to wait 3 months in Brazil if the blood sample was taken by a vet in the EU or one of the following countries, and entered into an EU pet passport or EU health certificate before leaving Ireland:

You must bring the original test certificate, or a copy received from the lab, with you when you come to Ireland.

If the blood test is taken in a non-EU country, the three month waiting period will always apply.

Step 5 – Tapeworm treatment

If you are bringing a dog into Ireland from a non-EU country, it must be treated for tapeworm (Echinococcus multilocularis) each time you travel to Ireland. The treatment must be given by a vet between 1 and 5 days before you come to arrive in Ireland, and recorded in the pet passport or EU health certificate.

Step 6 – Advance notice

You must tell the Irish port or airport authorities at least 24 hours before your arrival, but ideally in the week or so before travel. You must only enter Ireland at the following ports and airports. Advance notice should be emailed to:

• Dublin Airport - [email protected]
• Dublin Port - [email protected]
• Shannon Airport - [email protected]
• Cork Airport - [email protected]
• Ringaskiddy Port, Cork - [email protected]
• Rosslare Europort - [email protected]

Step 7 – Compliance check

Your pet must undergo a compliance check on arrival into Ireland from a non-EU country. This is arranged using the email addresses above.

If your pet is travelling to another EU country first and you have a check there, then your pet does not need another check on entry into Ireland. If however, you entered another EU country and were unable to arrange a check to be carried out there, you must arrange a compliance check on arrival into Ireland.

If you are moving to live in Ireland or coming here on holiday, you may be able to bring your pet bird, rabbit or rodent with you, provided you meet certain requirements. There is more information about the entry requirements for birds, rabbits and rodents either from EU or from outside the EU on the Government's Pet Travel Portal.

If you are bringing a pet bird, rabbit or rodent to Ireland from another EU state you must accompany the pet to Ireland. At least 24 hours before you arrive in Ireland you must send a completed advance notice of importation into Ireland form to the Animal Health Division, Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine at the address below. Owners of pet birds must also travel with a completed Owner Declaration for Pet Birds form.

If you wish to bring a pet bird, rabbit or rodent from a country outside the EU , please see DAFM's guidance, and make sure you have enough time to allow the pre-export requirements, which include a veterinary health certificate, testing, or quarantine requirements to be completed.

Forms and notices are available on the DAFM website.

If your pet does not meet the entry requirements, it may be refused entry into Ireland. The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine may return your pet to the country you travelled from.

Alternatively DAFM may place your pet into quarantine to be tested or microchipped and vaccinated to comply with EU requirements. Your pet will remain in quarantine until it fully complies with EU Legislation. In very limited circumstances, your pet may be euthanised. You will have to pay to cover the cost of these measures, including quarantine if necessary.

Blank templates for EU Health Certificates, advance notice forms and detailed guidance are available from DAFM.

Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine

Agriculture House Kildare Street Dublin 2 Ireland

Related documents

• Bringing your vehicle to Ireland Find out if you can claim an exemption from VRT, VAT and customs duty when bringing your car to Ireland. 2083.7964
• Bringing my non-EEA partner to Ireland to get married Outlines how to bring your non-EEA, UK or Swiss partner to Ireland to get married. 1831.7423
• Bringing a body to Ireland for burial or cremation When someone dies abroad it is often difficult to know what to do. Find out here the steps to take to bring a body home for burial or cremation 1669.9615

If you have a question about this topic you can contact the Citizens Information Phone Service on 0818 07 4000 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 8pm).

You can also contact your local Citizens Information Centre .

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Commercial and Non-Commercial Movements of Pets into Great Britain

Closed 16 oct 2021.

Opened 21 Aug 2021

[email protected]

We are seeking your views on the government’s proposed changes to the rules governing the commercial and non-commercial movement of pets (dogs, cats and ferrets) into Great Britain (England, Scotland and Wales) This does not include Northern Ireland. This is a joint consultation being issued by Defra on behalf of the UK Government, the Welsh Government, and the Scottish Government.  

A Welsh version of the consultation document can be found at the bottom of this page.  Mae fersiwn Cymraeg o’r ddogfen ymgynghori ar gael ar waelod y tudalen hwn.

Now that we have left the European Union (EU), the government has the opportunity to manage our own pet travel (non-commercial) and commercial import requirements.

In June 2021, the Animal Welfare (Kept Animals) bill was introduced to Parliament. The Bill aims to deliver the UK Government’s manifesto commitment to crack down on the issue of illegal puppy smuggling. 

The Bill includes a regulation-making power to introduce restrictions on commercial and non-commercial pet movements into Great Britain on welfare grounds and to make changes to the supporting enforcement regime.

We are consulting on these proposed new restrictions, which have been developed utilising recommendations [1] and evidence [2] from the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (EFRA) committee and third sector organisations, as well as public petitions [3] [4] and campaigns for change. The key proposed measures include: 

• Increasing the minimum age at which dogs can be brought into Great Britain (commercial and non-commercial dog movements).
• Prohibiting the commercial and non-commercial movement into Great Britain of dogs with cropped ears and docked tails.
• Prohibiting the commercial and non-commercial movement of heavily pregnant dams (female dog) into Great Britain. 

We believe that these proposed measures will have a significant impact in helping us to address the high and increasing volume of movements of dogs with low welfare standards into Great Britain, under both the commercial and non-commercial rules.   

These measures will not apply to domestic movements, including those between Northern Ireland and Great Britain.

[1] EFRA 2019 recommendations letter - Correspondence to Secretary of State from the Chair October 2019 about Puppy Smuggling (PDF)

[2] EFRA 2020 written and oral evidence about pet smuggling

[3]  Petition to parliament about stopping the rising number of ear-cropped dogs in the UK

[4]  Petition to Parliament about banning the exploitative import of young puppies for sale in the UK

• CLEARED ACCESSIBLE VERSION CONDOC - Commercial and non-commercial movements of pets into Great Britain.docx 149.2 KB (Office Word 2007 XML document)
• Dogfen ymgynghori Cymraeg - Symudiadau masnachol ac anfasnachol anifeiliaid anwes i Brydain Fawr CYMRAEG.docx 145.4 KB (Office Word 2007 XML document)
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Bringing your pet to Ireland

The importation of pets into Ireland is strictly controlled

The importation of pets into Ireland is strictly controlled to ensure diseases such as rabies are kept off of the island

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Bringing your pet on holiday with you is fun – they’re part of the family after all. Selected hotels, guest houses and B&Bs happily accommodate pets: the five-star Cliff House Hotel in County Waterford  even offers a luxury package specially designed for your pooch. B&B Ireland has lots of members who accept pets into their homes and many self-catering properties are now pet-friendly.

For the enthusiastic dog owner, the possibilities for walks are endless on the island – although remember to keep your dog on a leash at all times as sheep can pop up out of the most unlikely places! During the summer months, country fairs and festivals hold all sorts of dog shows, cat shows and pet races; so if you’re particularly proud of your pooch why not see if they can bring home the gold?

Murlough Bay

County Antrim

For the enthusiastic dog owner, the possibilities for walks are endless on the island

Bringing pets into the Republic of Ireland

Entry requirements depend on where your pet is travelling from .

Travelling from the EU

If you are bringing your pet dog, cat or ferret into the Republic of Ireland from another EU country or from Andorra; Gibraltar; Greenland and the Faroe Islands; Iceland; Liechtenstein; Monaco, Norway; San Marino; Switzerland or the Vatican City State, your pet must:

• Be microchipped (this must be done before anything else)

• Have a valid rabies vaccination

• Have an EU Pet Passport or Health Certificate

• Be treated for tapeworm (dogs only) before each visit, unless you’re travelling from Northern Ireland, Finland, Malta or Norway)

Travelling from Great Britain

If you are bringing your pet dog, cat or ferret into the Republic of Ireland from Great Britain, your pet must:

• Have an Animal Health Certificate

• Be treated for tapeworm (dogs only)

Allow plenty of time to arrange the relevant vaccinations and requirements with your vet before you travel – and don’t forget your pet will need a new AHC and tapeworm treatment for each trip. Find out more at Gov.uk: Taking your pet abroad and Gov.ie: Pet Travel Portal .

Dogwalking at Portumna Castle, County Galway

Travelling from outside the EU and Great Britain

Entry requirements depend on your country of origin. You can find details of the requirements for each country on the Irish Government's Pet Travel Portal .

At a minimum, your pet must:

• Be microchipped (this must be done before anything else)
• Have a valid rabies vaccination
• Have an EU Health Certificate
• Be treated for tapeworm (dogs only) before each visit
• Enter the Republic of Ireland only through Cork Airport, Dublin Airport, Dublin Port, Shannon Airport, the Port of Cork at Ringaskiddy or Rosslare Europort and must undergo compliance checks on arrival.

Pets coming from certain countries may also need to have a blood test after the rabies vaccination at least three months before entry.

Advance notice: If you're entering Ireland from a non-EU country you must arrange in advance to have a compliance check carried out on your arrival. You can find contact details to make these arrangements on the Pet Travel Portal .

Castlewellan Forest Park, County Down

Bringing pets into Northern Ireland

Dogs, cats and ferrets from certain countries or territories can enter Northern Ireland without quarantine provided they meet certain criteria.

Northern Ireland is part of the EU Pet Travel Scheme so you can use a pet passport issued in an EU country, including the Republic of Ireland, to bring your pet into Northern Ireland. Your pet will need to:

• Have an EU Pet Passport or Health Certificate
• Be treated for tapeworm (dogs only) before every visit

Great Britain is outside the EU Pet Travel Scheme so there are different rules around bringing your pet to Northern Ireland from Great Britain. Before you travel, you should check the Northern Ireland Government website or Gov.uk: Taking your pet abroad to make sure you adhere to the latest requirements.

Entry requirements depend on your country of origin. You can find details of the requirements for each country on the Northern Ireland Government's website .

• Have an EU Health Certificate confirming microchip and vaccinations
• Enter Northern Ireland only through Belfast Port, Belfast International Airport, Belfast City Airport, City of Derry Airport or Larne Port and may be required to undergo compliance checks on arrival.

Travelling within the island of Ireland

Pets travelling from the Republic of Ireland to Northern Ireland or vice versa should be microchipped, vaccinated against rabies and meet any additional requirements. They must also be accompanied by either a valid Animal Health Certificate (Great Britain residents) or an EU pet passport.

Getting here: transport and your pet

It's up to each individual airline to decide whether to carry your pet in the cabin or as excess baggage and each ferry operator has differing rules on travelling with animals. Always check with your transport company before you travel to confirm their requirements for transporting your pet.

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Animal Health Certificates

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• PETS10 - Pet Travel - Animal Health Certificate Order Form
• 8233NFG - AHC for the Non-commercial Movement into a Member State from a Territory or Third Country of Dogs, Cats or Ferrets - Notes for Guidance
• AHC01 - AHC for the Non-commercial Movement into a Member State from a Territory or Third Country of Dogs, Cats or Ferrets - English/Bulgarian
• AHC02 - AHC for the Non-commercial Movement into a Member State from a Territory or Third Country of Dogs, Cats or Ferrets - English/Croatian
• AHC03 - AHC for the Non-commercial Movement into a Member State from a Territory or Third Country of Dogs, Cats or Ferrets - English/Czech
• AHC04 - AHC for the Non-commercial Movement into a Member State from a Territory or Third Country of Dogs, Cats or Ferrets - English/Danish
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EU pet travel after 1 January 2021

Please view the information from DEFRA UK about changes to pet travel to and from the EU after the end of the transition period.

Further details can be found by contacting the Pet Travel Helpline on  0370 241 1710 or via  [email protected]

You will need to contact your vet at least 4 months before travel to begin preparing your pet for travel. 

Import control

Travelling from great britain to the isle of man.

Most dogs, cats and ferrets may travel freely between the Isle of Man and Great Britain (Scotland, England, Wales).

However, certain breeds and types of dog are prohibited from importation (for example: Pit Bull Terrier types, Japanese Tosa, Dogo Argentino and Fila Braziliero). Please see the Wild Animals Act on the  import and export page  for further information.

All tortoises require CITES permits, a UK export permit and an IOM import permit, unless moving back and forth on a Personal Ownership Certificate. Please see Import and export of exotic animals and endangered species for further information. 

Pet animals cannot be landed directly from an EU country to the Isle of Man by private air transport or private boat. If travelling by air, pet animals can only land in the Isle of Man via a DEFRA & DEFA approved pet transporter. If in doubt, please contact DEFA Agriculture on +44 1624 685844 or email  [email protected]

Travelling to the Isle of Man from Non-EU Countries

Dogs, cats and ferrets are prohibited from importation directly into the Isle of Man. They must travel through a UK Border Control Post (BCP) first. Once in free circulation in Great Britain they can then travel onwards to the Isle of Man. Please contact DEFRA ( DEFRA website ) to organise importation into the UK from non-EU countries.

If in doubt, please contact DEFA Agriculture on +44 1624 685844 or email  [email protected]  

Export to Non-EU Countries

If you are planning to travel to a non-EU country you should  contact your private Veterinary Surgeon who will supply an application form for your completion.

Please return your completed form to your private vet for checking. They will then forward the form to DEFA.

Once DEFA receives your completed application, processing of the specific export certification will begin. Details of the requirements for your specific export will be sent to your Veterinary Surgeon who will arrange the appropriate appointments with you. Please allow at least 6 weeks for your export procedure as some countries require blood tests, vaccinations, or treatments in the Isle of Man before your animal can be consigned. Some countries require Rabies vaccine 6 months before travel. 

Thie Slieau Whallian

Foxdale Road

Telephone: +44 1624 685844

Email: Send Email

The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture is committed to ensuring that its services are accessible to all. If you require this document in an alternative format and / or language please contact us to discuss your needs.

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Pet travel: approved air, sea and rail carriers and routes

Check the transport companies and routes you can use to bring your pet cat, dog or ferret to England, Scotland or Wales.

Applies to England, Scotland and Wales

• Publication for Northern Ireland

Pet travel: airlines and airports you can use

Pet travel: sea and rail routes and companies you can use.

You can only use these carriers and routes approved by the Animal and Plant Health Agency to bring your pet to England or Scotland. There are no approved routes to Wales.

You must follow pet travel rules . Ask your travel company if they have extra rules you must follow.

You don’t have to use an approved carrier or route if you travel to England, Scotland or Wales from:

• UK countries
• the Channel Islands
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• the Republic of Ireland

Updated the list of airlines and airports you can use for pet travel.

We've updated the list of airlines and airports you can use for pet travel.

Updated the list of airlines and airports you can use.

The list of airlines and airports you can use for pet travel has been updated.

Gestair Aviation Malta has been removed from the commercial list as it should only come under charter airlines.

Added Norse Atlantic Airways AS and Norse Atlantic UK Ltd to the list of commercial airlines you can use for pet travel.

Updated instances of 'London Heathrow' to 'London Heathrow (HARC)' - Heathrow Animal Reception Centre.

Updated the list of charter airlines and airports.

Removed Doncaster Sheffield airport from list of airlines and airports as the airport has ceased handling pets ahead of its closure.

Updated list of airlines and airports you can use for pet travel.

Updated the 'To - airport' for Volkswagen Air Service, Harmony Jets and Flexflight. Added Blue Air Aviation SA to the commercial airlines table.

Updated list of airlines and airports you can use for pet travel

Updated the list of airlines and airports approved by APHA.

We have updated the list of airlines and airports approved by APHA.

Updated MHS Aviation's record in the pet airline and airport list.

Updated Elangeni GmBH record in the airline and airports list.

Updated the list of approved airlines and airports.

We have updated the list of approved airlines and airports.

Updated the lists of the transport companies and routes approved by APHA that you can use to bring your pet cat, dog or ferret to England, Scotland or Wales.

Updated the list of airlines and airports approved for pet travel.

Updated list of airports for United Eagle, EJME Portugal and Goldeck-Flug GmbH

Updated list of airlines and airports approved by the Animal and Plant Health Agency to bring your pet to England or Scotland.

Updated lists of carriers and routes approved by the Animal and Plant Health Agency to bring your pet to England or Scotland.

Removed Genel Havalik from the approved list of airlines for pet travel.

Updated list of APHA approved airlines and airports for pet travel.

Updated airlines approved for pet travel list

Updated list of approved charter airlines: ADM Aviation, Airgo Private Airline, Astonjet, Bartolini Air, Castle Air Ltd, DC Aviation Ltd, DC Aviation GmbH, Excellent Air, Glock Aviation, Initium Aviation, Jet Linx Aviation, Jet Service NL, PHS Aviation, Porsche Air Service GmbH, Saxonair Charter Ltd, Svenskt Industriflyg AB, Taespejo Portugal, Vistajet Ltd

Updated the list of airports you can use for pet travel.

Updated list of approved charter airlines.

Updated the list of airlines that can bring pets into the UK and removed sea route from Zeebrugge to Hull by P & O ferries.

Updated airlines and airports approved from pet travel list.

Updated list of approved airlines and airports list.

Updated the approved airline and airport list.

Updated approved airlines and airport list

Updated pet travel: airlines and airports you can use list.

Updated charter list

Updates to ADM Aviation, Excellent Air and Royal Air AB.

Updates to Sunset Aviation, Flying Group Luxemburg S.A., Presidential Aviation Inc, West Atlantic Aviation UK, Alto Aerospace, Flying Service N.V., Grafair Flight Management, Air Malta

Update to Naljets (removed) and FAI rent-a-jet AG.

Updates to Catreus AOC, Qatar Executive and PAD Aviation.

Update to Commercial Airlines: Flybe, Thomas Cook, Astraeus Airlines, Mexicana Airlines, IEG, Adria Airway, British Airways and TUI Airways.

Updates to: GlobeAir, Zenith Aviation, Aliserio, Jet Service NL, Taespejo Portugal, Flexjet Operations, United Eagle, PAD Aviation and Alpha Aviation.

Updates to: Jet Service NL, Super Legacy, Flexjet Operations Ltd, ADM Aviation, Eatis SAS, Svenskt-industriflyg, Synergy Aviation, PAD Aviation, Alpha Aviation, Star Wings, Flexjet, Alto Aerospace, Lufthansa and Qatar Executive.

Update to: Firma Fair Air, Baden Aircraft Operations, CFB Aircraft and Ball Corporation.

Updates to: Exxaero BV Netherlands, Qatar Executive, ADM Aviation, I Walk and Air Rutter.

Update to PAD Aviation, Air CM Global, Fort Aero, Talon Air, Ineos Aviation and ProAir Aviation.

Updated: RVL Group, PAD Aviation, AFS Alpine Flightservice, Black Eagle Havacilik, Pink Sparrow, Qatar Executive, Eatis SAS, Jetfly Aviation SA, and Quick Air Jet Charter.

Update to: United States Air Force, Acass San Marino SRL, PAD Aviation, Gama Aviation and Flightworks Inc.

Updates to Black Eagle Havacilik, Regency Jet Centre and Exxaero.

Updates to: SriLankan Airlines, Avcon Jet, Titan Airways, Pink Sparrow, Qatar Exrcutive, Metrojet, Executive Jet Management, Twinjet, Prime Jet and Air CM Global.

Minor updates to: Aliserio, Taespejo Portugal, Saxonair, 2Excel Aviation, Pink Sparrow and Ortac.

Update to: CTR Atmospherica Aviation, Air X Charter (Germany), Air X Charter, Pontair Ltd and Air Charter Scotland.

Minor change to: Regency Jet Ltd and Transavia

Minor update to: Netjets Transportes Aereos, Acass San Marino, H-Bird Aviation, Royalair AB and Acass Canada.

Updates to: Synergy Aviation Ltd, Valljet, Acass Ireland Ltd, Voluxis, Catreus AOC Ltd and Royalair AB.

Change to: Flexflight APS, Regency Jet Centre, Jet Concierge Club, Catreus, Acass Ireland Ltd and Sonas Aviation.

Updates to: Royalair AB, Rwandair, Goldeck Flug Gesellshaft, ACP Jet Charter, IX Air, Silver Cloud, Air Bohemia, Interflight Air Charter, Elitavia D.O.O, Elitavia Malta, Infinity Aviation, Worldwide Jet Charter, Sonas Aviation, Fort Aero, Luxaviation Germany, North Central Air Charter, Fort Aero AS, RVL Group, Aliserio and JetBee Czech.

Updated entries for: 2Excel Aviation Ltd and Regency Jet Centre.

Minor change to: Luxaviation Germany, Initium Aviation, Ortac (AOC) Ltd, Fort Aero, Alto Aerospace, Smart Jet, 2 Excel Broadsword and Jung Sky.

Updated entries for Taespejo Portugal, Luxaviation Germany, Hyperion Aviation, Deer Jet (Beijing), Voluxis, Sonas Aviation, Silver Cloud Air and Flexjet.

Minor update to: Jet Exchange Ltd, Hyperion Aviation, Jota Aviation, Alto Aerospace, Silver Cloud Air, Ejme, Netjets Aviation and Netjets Transportes.

Updated entries for North Central Air Charter, Elite Jet, Elitavia San Marino, Vistajet, Flairjet, Sovereign Business Jets, Taespejo, Headstart Aviation, Silver Cloud, RVL Group, Laudamotion, Sky X Airways, Sonas Aviation and Alto Aerospace Ltd.

Minor change to: Fort Aero, RVL Group, Flexjet Aviation, Exxaero (Netherlands), Initium Aviation, Exxaero (Germany), DBT Transportes, DBT Transportes Aereos (DB Aviation), Regency Jet Ltd and Taespejo

Changes to: Netjets Aviation, RVL Group, European Flight Service, Flying Service, Saxonair Charter, European Flight Service (Ravenair), Flying Group Lux SA, Blackbird Air, Premium Aviation and EJME (Portugal)

Minor change to Hyperion Aviation, Regency Jet, Sirio, Jet Linx Aviation, Gama Aviation, Initium Aviation, Flying Group Luxembourg and European Flight Service.

Minor changes to: Exxaero (Germany), Exxaero (Netherlands), ASL NV, Jetbee Czech, Bairline, Regency Jet, Jet Stream and Time Air.

Updated entries for Initium Aviation, Air Taxi and Charter International, Clipper National Air, OHL Air Chaterflug and Regency Jet Ltd.

Updated entries for Hyperion Aviation, Jetbee Czech, Meridian Air Company, Initium Aviation, Saxonair Charter, Sirio, Regency Jet Ltd, Netjets Aviation and Evolem Aviation.

Updated entries for Luxaviation UK, Air Hamburg, Avionord, Centreline, Exxaero (Netherlands), Exxaero (Germany), Flying Group Lux, Flying Service, Globeair, Hyperion Aviation, Aeroways and JetBee Czech.

Updated entries for Aeroways, Flying Service, Flying Group Lux, Capital Air Charter – Now Capital Air Ambulance, Air Alsie, Blackbird Air, Netjets Transportes Aereos, Netjets Aviation, Air Taxi and Charter International, Hyperion Aviation, Exxaero (Netherlands) and Exxaero (Germany).

Added entries for Exxaero Netherlands and Exxaero Germany.

Updated entries for Excellent Air, DBT Transportes Aereos Ltd, Albinati Aviation Ltd, Flying Group Luxemburg S.A, Flying Service N.V., Air Charter Scotland, Air Hamburg, Initium Aviation, Air Charter Scotland, Gama Aviation, NetJets Transportes Aereos SA, EJME Aircraft Management, Jet Service NL B.V., Air CM Global Ltd and Aeroways.

Updated entries for Aeroways GmbH, Initium Aviation, Air Swisslion RD, Sky X Airways, Netjets Aviation (US), EJME (Portugal) Aircraft Mgment, Netjets Transportes Aereos SA, Pool Aviation, DC Aviation GMBH, DC Aviation Ltd, Air Alsie A/S, Premier Private Jet, Madjet Transportes Aereos, S.A, Sky X Airways, K5 Aviation, Jet Service NL.BV, Meridian Air Charter, Omni Aviation, Flying Service N.V., Copenhagen Air Taxi A/S, Windsor Media Inc, Lyon Aviation, EJME Aircraft Management, NetJets Aviation Inc, NetJets Transportes Aereos SA and SaxonAir Charter Ltd.

Minor change to: Jet Service NL B.V. Farnborough, Initium Aviation Doncaster Sheffield, Silver Cloud Air Glasgow, Omni Avviac ao e Technologia Glasgow, Gama Aviation Glasgow, Air Jet Sul London Gatwick

Minor changes to: Grafair London Stansted, Private Wings Leeds Bradford, Air Jet Sul Gloucestershire, Liverpool, London Ashford, Manchester, Sylt Air Manchester, Flying Service Liverpool, London Gatwick, Oxford, Flying Group Lux Liverpool, London Gatwick, Oxford, Initium Aviation London Biggin Hill, Sky X Airways Cambridge, Farnborough, London Biggin Hill, Jet Service NL B.V. Cambridge, Liverpool, Swan Aviation & Tourism Inc Farnborough, Dasnair SA Farnborough, Pro Jet GmbH Glasgow.

Made changes to: Pro Jet GmbH, Removed Estonian Air, TUI (formerly Thomsonfly and Thomson Airways), Removed Air Medical Ltd, Flairjet, Star Wings Dortmund,

Updated entries for Netjets Aviation Inc (US), Airjetsul, Saxonair charter Ltd, Sylt Air and Aerowest GmbH.

Updated entries for Air Transat, Air Jet Sul, ABS Jets, Globeair AG, Jetfkly Aviation, Lydd Air Ltd and Netjets. Removed entries for Cobalt, Monarch Airlines, US airways, Cyprus, Britannia, FlyLAL and Maersk Air Cargo.

Updated entries for Blink Ltd, Marshall Executive Aviation, Zettajet, My Travel, Star Wings, Xclusive Jet Charter, Air Charter Scotland, Air Pink, Airgo Private Airline, Dragonfly Aviation Services, European Flight Services, Globeair, Jet Concierge Club and Smartjet

Updated entries for Valair Private Jets, Amira Air, Laudamotion Executive, AFS Flight Servcies, Alpine Flightservice, Hummingbird Europe and Pen Avia.

Updated entries for Initium Aviation, Fiba Air Hava, Fai Rent-a-Jet, Valair Private Jets, Gama Aviation, ASL NV, Air CM Global Ltd Synergy Aviation, ACM Air Charter, Air Independance, Astraeus Airlines, Aviation Link, Elit’Avia Ltd, Elitavia San Marino, Elitavia Slovenia, Finesse Executive, Jet Netherlands, Longtail Aviation, Muyi Consulting Inc, National Jets Inc, Pegasus Elite Aviation, Private Air and Volare Aviation.

Updated entries for Aeroways Gmbh, Baden Aircraft Operations, Air Canada, Eisele Flugdienst GMBH, Vistajet and Head Start Aviation.

Updated entries for White Cloud Charter LLC, Luxaviation Germany GmbH, Projet GMBH, Synergy Aviation Ltd, Centreline AV Ltd, Jung Sky, Get1Jet, Time Air sro, Projet, Aeroways GMBH, Jetfly Airline GmbH, Aeroways GMBH, Pentastar Aviation, JSC Rossiya Airlines and Aeroways Gmbh

Updated entries for Flying Service, Jet Service NL.BV, International Jet Management, Synergy Aviation, Executive jet Management, Flying Service, E-Aviation (Eisele Flugdienst), Flying Group Luxemburg S.A., Aeroways GmbH and PRO JET.

Updated airport entries for the airlines: Channel Jets, Jet Service NL B.V, Flying Group Lux, Flying Partners and Sylt Air.

Updated entries for jetfly Aviation, The Little Jet Company, Saxon Air Charter, Jet Concierge, Hahn Airlines, Luxaviation UK, Xclusive Jets, Avcon Jet AG, Get1Jet, Air Charter Scotland, Hendell Aviation, Aliserio, Worldwide Jet Charter and Aerowest.

Updated entry for The Air Ministry.

Updated airline entries for Royal jet, Avcon jet and Blue square aviation group Malta.

Updated entries for airlines: Luxaviation Germany, Avcon Jet AG, Arcus Air GmbH & Co, Turkish Airlines, Keystone Aviation, Get1Jet, Blue Square Aviation Group Malta Ltd and updated sea cruise entry for Oceania Cruises.

Updated the entries for airlines: Aliserio, Klass-Jet and Luxaviation Germany and removed Eurofly Service.

Amended entries for Skyfirst, Carlisle Air Corporation and International Jet Management GmbH.

The following airlines have been added to this page: Get 1 jet, NOMAD aviation AG, Luxaviation UK and Air Charter Scotland.

Updated entries for Carlisle Air Corporation, Keystone Aviation, Get1Jet, Continental, United, Xclusive Jet Charter and Imperial Jet Europe.

Updated entries for Sunwest Aviation Ltd, Gary Jet Center, Pontair, Sunwest Aviation, Nomad Aviation AG, Jet Concierge, Air Alsie, Albinati Aeronautics, Skybridge International Balkan, Luxaviation UK, Air Europa, Air Swisslion Rd, Arena Aviation and Carlisle Air Corporation.

Updated the entries for Airlines: PHS Aviation, Air Alsie, 2 Excel Broadsword, Air Alsie, Luxwing, Luxaviation UK, Voluxis and Gama Aviation (UK) Ltd.

Updated entries for Luxwing, Gama, Catreus, Execaire, Elite Jet, Hangar 8, Oasis Flight, Oasis Flight Malta, Laudamotion (previously Amira Air), Fly Alpha GmbH, Baden Aircraft Operations, Jetfly Aviation, Aeroways, Skybridge International Balkan, AMC Aviation, T-air Spol and San Marino Executive Aviation.

Updated airline charter entries for PHS, DAS Private Jets, San Marino Executive Aviation, Aeroways GmbH, Luxaviation Germany, ProAir Aviation, Taespejo Portugal, Excellent Air, Smart Jet, Elite Jet, The Air Ministry, DAS Private Jets, EJME (Portugal), Netjets Aviation Inc, Netjets Transportes Aereos SA, Time Air and AMC Aviation. Also amended the commercial entry for Emirates.

Updated airline and airports entries for PHS, Windsor Jet Management, Albinati Aviation, PHS, VIP Flight and Executive Jet Management.

Updated entries for Elitavia San Marino SRL, Elitavia Malta Ltd, Elivatia d.o.o., Centreline AV Ltd, Aerowest GmbH, Jet Ready, Saxonair Charter Ltd, PHS and Volkswagen AirService GmbH.

Updated entries for PHS, Polaris Aviation, GrafAir Flight Management AB and MHS Aviation GmbH.

Amended entries for airlines: Polaris Aviation, SAS Astonjet, Smart Jet and Ortac (AOC) Limited.

Updated entries for FlyGAC A/S, World Wide Charter Jet, Eagle Express, Catreus, Global Air Charters, Smart Jet, Yourways and PHS.

Updated entries for Jetflite OY, Air Hamburg, Infinity Aviation.

Updated entries for Star Wings Dormtund, Ortac (AOC) Limited, Fayair, Air Pink, Jet Concierge Club, Voluxis (formerly Interflight Air Charter) and Laudamotion Executive (formerly Laudamotion).

Updated entries for Acass and Jet Aviation Flight Services (Malta) Ltd.

Updated entries for Jet Aviation Business, Jet Aviation Flight Services (Malta), Jet Concierge Club, Planet Nine Private Air, Smart Jet, SAS Astonjet and H-Bird Aviation Services.

Updated entries for: Synergy Aviation Ltd, Jet Concierge Club, Jet Aviation Business Jets AG, VistaJet Limited, Jet Concierge Club, SaxonAir Charter Limited, Flybe, Titan Airways Limited, Emperor Aviation and Avcon Jet.

Entries updated for Worldwide Jet Charter, Jet Exchange Ltd, Hahn Airlines, Infinity Aviation, Prince Aviation, Silesia Air, Goldeck-Flug Gesellschaft m.b.H, Lyon Aviation, Air Pink, Jetfly Aviation, Pro Air Aviation, Blink Ltd, JetNetherlands, China Airlines, Time Air s.r.o, Harmony Jets and Interflight Air Charter.

Updated entries for Smart Jet, Newcastle Aviation Ltd, Elitavia San Marino, Elitavia Slovenia, Elitavia Malta, Avionco Ltd, Infinity Aviation, Keystone Aviation, International jet Management, Pro Air Aviation, and Icelandair.

Updated entries for Elitavia Malta, Elitavia San Marino, Elitavia Slovenia, Smart Jet, Saxon Air Charter, Jet Concierge Club, PHS, Constellation Aviation Services, Flexjet and TRTO agency.

Updated entries for Cobalt, Planet Nine, Jet Concierge, Elitavia San Marino, Saxonair Charter ltd and Smart Jet.

Entries updated for: LaudaMotion, Cobalt, Jet Netherlands, Luxaviation & Execujet, Air X Charter (Germany), Saxonair Charter Limited, Corporate Flight Management, Executive Jet Management, Smart Jet and RVL Group

Updated entries for Netjets Aviation, Ejme (Portugal) Air Management, Netjets Transportes, Interflight Air Charter, Global Air Charters, Eisele Flugdienst, AirGo private airline, RVL group, Air X Charter (Germany), AirGo Private Airline, Planet Nine Private Air, Jetflight Aviation, Silk way business aviation and TWC Aviation.

Updated entries for Eisele Flugdienst, Omni Air Transport, klasJet, AirGo, Charter Jets, Air X Executive Jet, Elytra Charter, Set Air / Setair Hava, Airlink Airways, Jetfly Aviation, Maleth-Aero and Interflight Air Charter.

Updated entries for: Pro Airways, Set Air, Stolting Air Services, Air X Charter (Germany), Air X Charter Ltd, Amjet Executive, EJME (Portugal), Netjets Aviation (US), Netjets Transportes SA and SAS Astonjet.

Updated entries for Hahn Air Lines, Atlas Air, Air X Charter (Germany), Air X Charter and Omni Aviation.

Updated entries for Jet Pool Network, Éclair Aviation, FlyGac, Jetfly Aviation, Evolum Aviation, Setair Hava, Air X Charter (Germany), Air X Charter Ltd, Virgin Atlantic and Hahn Air Lines.

Updated entries for Jung Sky, Lyddair, Hendell Aviation Oy, Globe Air, Aero-dienst, Air Bohemia, Air X Charter Ltd, Air X Charter (Germany) & Co KG and Oman Air.

Updated entries for Zenith Aviation, 2Excel Aviation, Star Wings, Sunset Aviation and Sundt Air.

Updated entries for Kuwait Airways, International Jet Management, Starjets Aviation and Stolting Air Service.

Updated entries for Stolting Air Services, Aeropa, Silver Cloud Air, Air Bohemia, Stajets and Primera Air Scandinavia.

Updated entries for Blink Ltd, Copenhagen Air Taxi, Air Bohemia, Aeropa and Jet Exchange.

Updated entries for Centreline, Air Bohemia, Silver Cloud, Jet Exchange Ltd, Whitewind Company, Journey Aviation, Jetkey SAS, MS Aviation, Eisele Flugdienst, Arcus Air and Jetfly Aviation.

Updated entries for K5 Aviation, Sirio, Air Bohemia, Valair Private Jets, Ejme (Portugal), Netjets Tansportes, Netjets Aviation, Atlas Air Service AG, Silver Cloud Air and K5 Aviation.

Updated entries for Saxonair, BZ Air, Air Bohemia, Eisele Flugdienst, Lions Air, Bluelink Jets, Hendell Aviation Oy, ACP Jet Charters, Air Charter Scotland, AirGo Private Airlines, Saxonair, Sovereign Business Jets, Zenith Aviation and Rulers Flight Sharjah.

Updated entries for Air Bohemia, Galaxy Airways, Dubai Air Wing, JetBee Czech and Skyline Aviation SRL.

Updated entries for Lyon Aviation, Sirius-Aero Ltd, Air Bohemia, Royal Jet, Galaxy Airways and TCC Air Services.

Updated entries for North Flying AS, Arcus Air, 2Excel Aviation, Jetnetherlands, Sovereign Businsess Jets, Skyline Aviation, Imperial jet Europe and Silver Cloud

Entries updated for North Flying AS and Head Start Aviation.

Updated entries for Hahn Air Lines, Bluelink Jets, Cobalt, Jet Exchange, Journey Aviation and Blink Ltd

Updated the entries for Fiba Air Hava Tasimacilik and Skyfirst.

Updated the entries for Firefly Entertainment and Elilombarda.

Updated entries for Speedfly, SAS Astonjet, Air CM Global, MNG Jet Havacilik, and Fiba Air Hava Tasimacilik

Amended entries for Air CM Global Ltd, Eisele Flugdienst, Oman Air, MNG Jet Havacilik, Genel Havacilik and Fiba Air Hava Tasimacilik

Updated entries to Speedwings, Spree Flug, Zenith Aviation, SAS Astonjet, ACP Jet Charters, Prime Service italia, Hahn Airlines and IX Air.

Updated the entries for Laudamotion, Hahn Airlines and AirGo Private Airlines.

Updated the entries for Delta Private Jets, AirGo Private Airline, Newcastle Aviation, Flairjet, Hahn Airlines and Naljets.

Updated entries for Arcus Air and Swiss Jet Ltd.

Amendments made to entries for Swiss Jet Ltd and Bairline.

Amendments made to entries for Firefly Entertainment, Zenith Aviation, Catreus, Oceanskies Aero Ltd, Valljet, Empire Aviation and Mistral Aviation.

Updated the airline entries for ABC Bedarfsflug, Monza, Valair, Bly Halkin, Privatair, Das Private Jets, TJS (Malta) Ltd, Monacair, European Flight Service, Alpine Flightservice and ABS Jets.

Made changes to the entries for: Qatar Executive, TJS(Malta)Ltd, 2Excel Aviation and Monacair.

Entries for Air Hamburg, Executive Jet Management, Catreus, Qatar Executive, Hahn Air Lines, CCF Manager Airline and Air Alsie updated.

Amended entries for CTR Flight Services, Hahn Airlines, Globeair and Sylt Air.

Amended the airline list entries for CTR Flight Services, AirGo Private Airline, Éclair Aviation and Hahn Airlines.

Amended the airline list entries for Jetkey Aviation, Execujet Europe AG, Nomad Aviation AG, American Airlines, Top Jets, Jet Aviation Flight Services, S & K Bermuda Ltd, Global Jet, Acass Canada & Acass Europe.

Amended the airline list entries for Artjet, Acass, Fly Vectra, Catreus and Air Hamburg.

Amended the airline list entries for Air Hamburg, Volare Aviation, Nomad Aviation and Vistajet.

Amended the airline list entries for Star Wings, Friedkin Aviation, Jetcapital, Aeroflot Russian Airlines, United Airlines and Executive Jet Charter.

Added Seasky, Acass Canada Ltd and Acass Europe Srl and updated entries for Airgo Private airline and Sovereign Business Jets to the approved airline list.

Amended entries for WaltAir, Airstream, Aliparma SRL, Air France-KLM, Executive Jet Management and Eurofly Service.

Added Servicios Aereos to the list of approved air carriers.

Updated the chartered airline routes for Star Wings and Private Jet Company.

Updated the charter airline Star Wings and the Santander to Portsmouth ferry route.

Renamed Advanced Air Management to Zettajet (charter airline) and amended the Le Havre to Portsmouth ferry route companies.

Updated the chartered airline routes for AFS Flight Service, Air Hamburg and Jet Aviation Flight Services.

Added Air Pannonia and Friedkin Aviation to the list of approved charter airlines.

Updated the airlines/airports list.

Updated the airlines and airports list.

Updated entries for the air routes.

Updated the charter airline details for: Westair Aviation, Executive Jet Management, Flying Group, Jetfly Aviation, London Executive Aviation, Naljets - charter, Volare Aviation, Westair Aviation

Made changes to the airlines and airports document.

Updated the charter airline details for: Infinity aviation, Trans-Exec Air Service (previously Trans-Exec Private Jets), Arcus Air, Colin Ferns and Exxaero International BV.

Amended entries for airlines Time Air and Executive Jet Management.

Updated the charter airline entries for Time air and vistajet.

Updated the approved air routes and charter air routes documents.

Updated the air charter routes and approved air routes.

Pet travel: charter routes by air (other air routes) updated.

Updated the charter air routes and approved air routes lists.

Charter routes by air updated.

Updated charter routes by air (other air routes) and approved air routes.

Updated the document: charter routes by air (other air routes).

Pet travel: charter routes by air (other air routes) document updated.

Updated the pets travel charter routes by air document

Latest list of charter routes by air (other air routes) has been published.

Updated the approved air routes document.

Latest version of Pet travel: approved air routes and latest version of Pet travel: charter routes by air (other air routes) published.

Latest air and air charter routes published.

Latest version of Pets air charter routes published.

Updated with latest approved air routes and charter routes lists.

Latest pet travel: charter routes by air (other air routes) published

Latest charter routes by air (other air routes), published

Latest list of approved routes published

Latest list of charter routes by air (other air routes) published.

Latest charter routes by air (other air routes) published.

First published.

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Taking a dog to Ireland in 2023: Everything you need to know

Taking a dog to Ireland is trickier than it was before Brexit, with extra paperwork required depending on which part of Ireland you are travelling to. In this guide we run through what you need to do in order to take a dog to the Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland as well as travelling between the two, including when an Animal Health Certificate is required, when to get tapeworm treatment administered, and how to return to the UK.

Please note, this guide only covers owners travelling with their dog from Great Britain (England, Scotland or Wales) to the Republic of Ireland or Northern Ireland . If you're travelling to Ireland from another country, if you aren't travelling with your dog, or if a dog is moving for commercial purposes, then other requirements may apply.

This guide is frequently updated by our vets to ensure the advice we give is up to date. If you think that something is incorrect or out of date please do contact us so we can update our guide.

Dog Friendly Travel Routes to Ireland

Taking a dog from great britain to the republic of ireland, taking a dog from great britain to northern ireland, taking a dog from northern ireland to the republic of ireland, taking a dog from the republic of ireland to northern ireland.

There are a number of routes to take your dog to Ireland from Great Britain.

Due to the complexity and cost of taking a dog by plane, most people tend to travel by ferry from one of the ports along the west coast of Great Britain. Crossing times range from 2 hours to 8 hours, and generally ferry companies don't charge extra for taking dogs.

We've listed the most common routes that accept dogs from Great Britain to Ireland below:

All of these ferry companies are dog friendly, with most routes having the option of either booking a kennel, a dog friendly cabin, or keeping them inside the car.

For more information on each ferry companies' individual pet policies please follow the links below:

StenaLine pet policy

Irish Ferries pet policy

P&O Ferries pet policy

If you are planning on flying with your dog to Ireland, you'll need to book with a pet friendly airline such as KLM, Lufthansa, or Aer Lingus. You'll need to check with the airline what their pet policy is, and whether your pet can travel in the cabin or whether they have to be in the hold. Typically in addition to the requirements detailed later on in this guide, the airline will often require a "Fitness to Fly" certificate issued by a veterinarian stating that the dog is fit to travel.

The Republic of Ireland is part of the European Union so in order to take a dog there EU rules must be followed. Below we outline what these requirements are and in what order they need to be followed.

1. Ensure your dog is microchipped and has been vaccinated against rabies

The first step is to ensure your dog has been microchipped (a legal requirement in the UK), and if your dog hasn't had a rabies vaccination before (or the previous one has expired), then you'll need to book this in at your vet practice.

Rabies vaccinations are not routine vaccinations in the UK, so unless your dog has travelled abroad before, it is unlikely that they will have had one. Dogs need to be at least 12 weeks old before they are able to have a rabies vaccination.

The price of rabies vaccinations varies by vet practice but most tend to charge between £50 and £90.

The vaccination needs to be administered at least 21 days before an Animal Health Certificate can be issued (see step 3), so you'll need to factor this in when planning your trip.

When the vet administers the rabies vaccination, they should update your dog's vaccination/health card or issue you with a rabies vaccination certificate. See our guide on proof of rabies documentation for what type of document is required.

The vaccination card or certificate needs to have the following information on in order for a vet to issue an Animal Health Certificate (AHC):

Details of your dog including the microchip number

Date the rabies vaccination was administered

Manufacturer and batch number of the rabies vaccination

Name, signature and practice stamp of the vet surgeon who administered the vaccine

2. Plan your travel to the Republic of Ireland, ensuring you can book an appointment with an Official Veterinarian a few days before your departure date

Dogs may only enter the Republic of Ireland through a designated Traveller's Point of Entry (TPE) . These are:

Cork Airport

Dublin Airport

Dublin Port

Port of Cork – Ringaskiddy

Rosslare Port

Shannon Airport

Most people travelling with a dog to the Republic of Ireland travel by ferry, either from Holyhead, Fishguard or Pembroke into Dublin or Rosslare.

Check with the ferry company what their policy on dogs is, and whether to book them into a kennel or dog cabin onboard, or to leave them in the car during the crossing.

Before you book your ferry, it's worth booking the Animal Health Certificate and tapeworm treatment appointment(s) in with us or another Official Veterinarian to ensure they fit within the time below scales:

The Animal Health Certificate must be issued at least 21 days after the rabies vaccination was administered AND within 10 days of your departure date.

The tapeworm treatment must be administered between 24 hours (1 day) and 120 hours (5 days) before your scheduled arrival time in the Republic of Ireland.

3. Get an Animal Health Certificate issued within 10 days of your travel date

All dogs travelling to the Republic of Ireland are required to have either an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) or an EU-issued pet passport with a valid rabies vaccination in. GB-issued pet passports are no longer valid for travelling to the EU, and have been replaced with AHCs.

Animal Health Certificate

An Animal Health Certificate (AHC) is a single-use document required for dogs or cats to enter the EU from the UK. The certificate must be completed and issued by an Official Veterinarian within 10 days of your travel date, and at least 21 days after the rabies vaccination was administered (to allow sufficient immunity to build up).

Not all vet practices have Official Veterinarians (vets than can issue AHCs), and prices can vary widely, so it's best to shop around to see which vet can issue your AHC within the time period you need it, and at a fair price.

At PassPets , we specialise in issuing Animal Health Certificates and travel documents for pets, with our prices for Animal Health Certificates starting from £99. We have branch in Havant (near Portsmouth) and have recently opened a new branch in London. If you would like more information about our service, visit our website or call us on 02392453650.

EU Pet Passport

If you have an EU-issued pet passport (not a GB-issued pet passport), and the most rabies vaccination was administered and completed in the EU pet passport by a vet registered in the EU and it is still in date for the duration of your trip , then you can use this EU pet passport instead of an Animal Health Certificate.

4. Tapeworm Treatment

All dogs entering the Republic of Ireland are required to have tapeworm treatment administered and recorded by a vet between 24 hours (1 day) and 120 hours (5 days) before the dog's scheduled arrival time in the Republic of Ireland.

The vet that administers the tapeworm treatment does not have to be an "Official Veterinarian", any vet can administer and record tapeworm treatment.

To avoid having to make multiple appointments with the vet, it's worth seeing whether they can issue the AHC and administer the tapeworm treatment at the same time (i.e. between 24 hours and 120 hours before you arrive in the Republic of Ireland). At PassPets , we issue the AHC and administer the tapeworm treatment at the same appointment.

The treatment needs to be recorded in the table at the bottom of page 3 of the Animal Health Certificate. The vet will need to record the name and manufacturer of the product, the date and time it was administered and their name, stamp and signature.

If you have an EU pet passport, then tapeworm treatment is still required, but it will need to be recorded on the "Echinococcus Treatment" page in the EU pet passport instead.

5. Travel to the Republic of Ireland

Once you have an Animal Health Certificate (or EU pet passport), and tapeworm treatment has been administered, you can travel to the Republic of Ireland with your dog (provided you are due to arrive in the Republic of Ireland between 1 and 5 days from when the tapeworm treatment was administered).

At the ferry port, or airport, they will check your dog's microchip and inspect the paperwork you have to ensure it has been filled in correctly and that the tapeworm treatment has been administered.

6. Travelling back to Great Britain from the Republic of Ireland

Provided you have not travelled to any other countries whilst in the Republic of Ireland (apart from Northern Ireland), there are no extra requirements for returning to Great Britain.

At the border they will check to see you have an Animal Health Certificate (or EU pet passport), for your dog and that the rabies vaccination is still valid.

Taking a dog from Great Britain to Northern Ireland is easier than taking a dog to the Republic of Ireland.

Most people travelling with dogs tend to travel by ferry, either from Cairnryan (in Scotland) to Belfast or Larne, or from Liverpool to Belfast. Check with the ferry company what their policy on dogs is, and whether to book them into a kennel or dog cabin onboard, or to leave them in the car during the crossing.

When the UK left the EU in January 2021, in order to take a dog to Northern Ireland, pet owners initially had to follow the same rules as for the Republic of Ireland, including a rabies vaccination, an Animal Health Certificate and tapeworm treatment.

However, on the 15th September 2021, a statement was issued from DAERA (the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development of Northern Ireland) announcing that all pet checks on the border between Great Britain and Northern Ireland would be suspended until further notice.

"There will be no routine physical or documentary checks on the non-commercial movement of pet dogs, cats and ferrets travelling from Great Britain to Northern Ireland until further notice" Department of Agriculture and Rural Development of Northern Ireland ( Source )

So given the above statement, as long as you are only travelling to Northern Ireland and not to the Republic of Ireland, then there are no requirements for taking a dog other than the dog must be microchipped.

That said, we would still recommend contacting the ferry company (or airline) you are planning on using to see whether they have still suspended pet checks at the time you will be travelling.

When returning from Northern Ireland to Great Britain with a dog, there are no additional requirements:

"If travelling from NI to GB with your pet and not returning to NI, there are no documentary or health preparation requirements. However, there is a legal requirement that dogs are microchipped at 8 weeks old." Department of Agriculture and Rural Development of Northern Ireland ( Source )

Technically, because you are entering the EU when travelling from Northern Ireland to the Republic of Ireland, you need to follow the EU rules when taking a dog, which includes getting an Animal Health Certificate issued and tapeworm treatment administered (as outlined above in the travelling to the Republic of Ireland from Great Britain section).

If you entered Ireland through Northern Ireland but are planning on returning to Great Britain from the Republic of Ireland then we would definitely recommend following the steps above for travelling to the Republic of Ireland. This is because they will likely be checking documents at the border between the Republic of Ireland and Great Britain so they will want to see a valid Animal Health Certificate or EU pet passport.

On the other hand, if you are not planning on returning to Great Britain via the Republic of Ireland, then because there is no physical border between Northern and the Republic of Ireland, you are unlikely to be checked for pet documentation:

"A risk-based approach is taken with regards to the level of compliance checks on pets travelling between NI and the ROI. DAERA and the Department of Agriculture Food & Marine (DAFM) reserve the right to carry out checks should there be a suspicion of illegal activity or welfare concerns." Department of Agriculture and Rural Development of Northern Ireland ( Source )

However an Animal Health Certificate or EU pet passport with evidence of the tapeworm treatment, is technically required.

If you've travelled into the Republic of Ireland from Great Britain with a dog, you'll have had to get an Animal Health Certificate or EU pet passport, along with evidence of tapeworm treatment before you arrived.

As a result, if you were to travel into Northern Ireland, because there are no routine checks being done between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, nor between Northern Ireland and Great Britain, you are unlikely to need to show these documents, but it's worth keeping hold of them just in case.

We hope our guide helps when planning your trip to Ireland with your dog. For more guidance please visit the government website for taking pets to the EU , or contact us .

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pet travel between the UK and EU post Brexit

Defra (the Department of Environment, Food & Rural Affairs) publishes advice from the UK government about pet travel for dogs, cats and ferrets between the UK and EU countries post Brexit. Key points from Defra’s advice are summarised here. For the latest guidance, please visit the  Defra website , whose information takes precedence over the information below.

pet travel from GB to the EU and Northern Ireland after Brexit (from 1 January 2021)

Under the EU PETS (pet passport) scheme, Great Britain (GB) — England, Scotland, Wales, the Channel Islands and Isle of Man — is a Part 2 listed third country.

This means that a current EU pet passport issued in GB is not valid for travel to the EU or Northern Ireland (NI) .   However, the health information and vaccination history recorded in your pet’s passport remains valid.

Instead, your pet (dog, cat or ferret) needs:

• an animal health certificate (AHC) , if it’s travelling within five days of your own journey
• an export health certificate (EHC) , if it’s travelling more than five days before or after your own journey, or is relocating to a new owner

You’ll need to take these steps.

• Have your dog, cat or ferret microchipped, if not already done.
• Have your dog, cat or ferret vaccinated against rabies — your pet must be at least 12 weeks old before it can be vaccinated.
• Wait 21 days after the primary vaccination before travel.
• Visit your vet to get an AHC or EHC for your pet, no more than 10 days before travel to the NI or the EU.

getting an animal health certificate (AHC)

Take your pet to your vet no more than 10 days before travel to get an AHC. The certificate must be signed by an official vet. Check with your vet that they’re authorised to issue AHCs for pets.

Take proof of:

• your pet’s microchipping date
• your pet’s vaccination history

The AHC will be valid for:

• 10 days after the date of issue for entry into the EU or NI
• onward travel within the EU or NI for 4 months after the date of issue
• re-entry to GB for 4 months after the date of issue

Your pet will need a new AHC for each trip to the EU or NI.

getting an export health certificate (EHC)

If your pet is travelling more than five days before or after you (or relocating to a new owner), it will need an EHC instead of an AHC. The process for getting an EHC is much the same as for getting an AHC (described above).

pet travel from the EU to GB

There are no changes to the current health preparations for pets entering GB from 1 January 2021.

Your pet must have one of the following documents when entering GB from the EU:

• a pet passport issued in an EU country
• a pet passport issued in a Part 1 listed third country
• a pet passport issued in GB before 1 January 2021, provided that your pet’s journey is direct from one EU country to GB (if your pet will travel through more than one EU country, a GB-issued pet passport won’t be valid)
• the AHC issued in GB used for your pet to travel to the EU — which you can use up to 4 months after the issue date
• an export health certificate (EHC) for GB (for travel into GB only) issued by an official vet in the departure country

Your pet won’t need any of the above if it’s entering GB from NI, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man.

FAQs on post-Brexit travel

Naturally our clients have lots of questions around pet travel between GB and NI and EU. We’re maintaining a  post-Brexit pet travel FAQ page  to help with some of the more typical queries.

Privacy Overview

Travelling to Northern Ireland with a Dog in 2023

Northern Ireland is a fabulous destination to visit with your dog, whether you’re visiting family or friends or touring the beautiful countryside.

However, due to being situated across the Irish Sea and being treated differently since the end of the Brexit transition, it’s potentially trickier to visit than the other countries of the United Kingdom .

Read on for answers to all the questions you may have about the latest logistics of taking a dog to Northern Ireland, from whether you need an animal health certificate to the dog-friendly ferries available.

Can I Take My Dog to Northern Ireland from Great Britain?

From 1st January 2021, once the Brexit transition ended, the rules to travel with your dog from England, Scotland or Wales to Northern Ireland changed. Previously, there was no need for a pet passport or any other special preparations, but this is technically no longer the case.

In 2021, Great Britain became a “Part 2 listed third country” for the purposes of pet transport to the European Union. This includes England, Scotland and Wales, along with the Channel Islands and Isle of Man.

However, there was no change in the status of Northern Ireland, which is effectively classified as still part of the European Union for the purposes of pet transport.

New Requirements to take a Dog to Northern Ireland

This means that dogs travelling from Great Britain to Northern Ireland are meant to require preparation similar to visiting any other country in the EU.

Your dog technically requires a microchip, a valid rabies vaccine (at least 21 days before travel), worming treatment (done by a vet, between 24 hours and 5 days of travel) and an animal health certificate (within 10 days of travel).

Pet passports issued in EU countries can be used, in place of the animal health certificate. Pet passports issued in Great Britain cannot be used to travel to Northern Ireland, nor can old-style Northern Ireland pet passports, only the new-style introduced in 2021.

Additionally, when travelling to Northern Ireland you’ll need to use a “travellers’ point of entry”. This includes Belfast Port, Larne Port, Belfast International Airport, Belfast City Airport and City of Derry Airport.

For more information see the DAERA website . However, read on…

But Is This Being Enforced?

The good news though, is that these new requirement are not being enforced .

After an extended period in early 2021, when there was a grace period before the checks started being enforced, in September 2021 it was announced that checks on all pet dogs, cats and ferrets travelling from Great Britain to Northern Ireland would be suspended indefinitely . As of early 2023, this is still the case.

This means that for now, you no longer need to visit the vet to pay for an expensive animal health certificate, nor have a worming treatment done by a vet. A microchip and rabies vaccine is also not required.

Potential Future Requirements

The UK government has stated during the last few years that they are working on a permanent solution for pet checks , with negotiations with the EU continuing.

As of February 2023, it seems that a new simpler solution may soon be in place for pets travelling from Great Britain to Northern Ireland, assuming that the new Windsor Framework is ratified .

Pets travelling to Northern Ireland under this framework will only require a new simpler travel document, containing the pet’s microchip number and a declaration that the dog will not be travelling onwards to the Republic of Ireland or any other EU country. This will unlikely to require a vet visit. It is still early days though, with the change not yet definite.

At this stage it seems less likely that the UK will become a Part 1 listed country, similar to Switzerland, with its own pet passport and easier travel to all EU countries.

Returning to Great Britain with Your Dog

While there are numerous changes to travelling from Great Britain to Northern Ireland with a dog (not that they are currently being enforced), there are no changes travelling in the opposite direction.

Technically dogs travelling to Great Britain need to be microchipped and vaccinated against rabies, but there is no requirement for a pet passport or health certificate (that would prove this) for travel from Northern Ireland to Great Britain.

Dogs travelling from Northern Ireland to Great Britain are also not required to have a worming treatment, nor are they required to travel on an approved route. For more information, see the UK government website .

Dog-Friendly Ferries from Great Britain to Northern Ireland

The best way to travel from Great Britain to Northern Ireland with your dog is on a dog-friendly ferry. As it’s not possible to fly with your dog in the cabin to Northern Ireland, with only a handful of UK airlines allowing pets to fly as checked baggage or more often cargo , I recommend taking a ferry rather than flying.

There are currently three ferries to choose from between Great Britain and Northern Ireland, operated by Stena Line and P&O Irish Seas. (Irish Ferries doesn’t operated any ferry routes to Northern Ireland.) These are the three routes, ranked in order of dog-friendliness…

Note: This post contains affiliate links, which means I may receive commission if you make a purchase using the links.

Stena Line Ferry from Cairnryan to Belfast

After taking this ferry with my dog, I selected the Stena Line Ferry from Cairnryan to Belfast as the most dog-friendly ferry to Ireland  (whether Northern Ireland or the Republic of Ireland).

As well as being a quick crossing (2 1/4 hours), with up to six services daily, small pets in a pet traveller case are allowed to travel on the passenger deck by your side, in a Pet Lounge on Deck 7 that opened in May 2023.

Note that the pet traveller case should be a maximum size of 91cm x 56cm and 62cm high, and must have a secure door, zip or lock mechanism, with your pet totally enclosed. Regular bags are not allowed. Plus naturally pets must remain in the carrier at all times, except dogs are allowed in the dedicated outdoor deck area.

In November 2022, it was announced that Stena Line would no longer permit small pets to travel in a carrier onboard this route, due to health, safety and hygiene reasons, but this decision was reversed, with just the new requirement to travel in the dedicated Pet Lounge, for a fee. (Thanks to everyone who helped signed the petition!)

In early 2023, pet-friendly cabins were announced on the majority of other ferries crossing the Irish Sea, but this won’t apply on this short crossing.

Larger pets can either be checked into a kennel or left in your car, both free of charge. All pets must be pre-booked, at the “Stena Plus & Onboard Extras” step of the booking process. Foot passenger are also allowed to transport pets.

Stena Line Ferry from Liverpool to Belfast

In early 2023, Stena Line announced that there would now be pet-friendly cabins available on a number of additional routes, including the Stena Line Ferry from Liverpool to Belfast. So, I’ve bumped up this ferry in terms of pet-friendliness out of the ferries between Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

Up to two pets are permitted in each vinyl-floored pet-friendly cabin, with water bottles and pee pads provided. Just bring your own bowls and beds. Make sure you book these cabins well in advance, with bookings available both online and through the call centre.

When walking to your pet-friendly cabin, carry your pet in a carrier or walk them on a leash, with muzzles also recommended. There’s also a dedicated outdoor area on the ferries on this route, where your pup can get some fresh air and have a toilet break.

The alternative options for transporting your pet are in your own car (if you are travelling with one), at no cost, or in a kennel in the “Dog Lodge” on the promenade deck, for an additional £15.

Pets travelling in the Stena Line Dog Lodge can be accessed and exercised during your crossing. Even free dog food is available. Just note that the kennel size may be a little too small for larger dogs, at 100 x 82.5 x 75cm.

No matter which option you choose for transporting your pet, you need to specify you’ll be travelling with pets at the “Stena Plus & Onboard Extras” step in the booking process, and select the relevant option. The crossing is 8 hours, with both a day-time and overnight option available.

P&O Ferry from Cairnryan to Larne

The final pet-friendly ferry crossing from Great Britain to Northern Ireland is travelling on the P&O Ferry from Cairnryan to Larne.

Out of all the crossings, this is the shortest, a quick 2hr trip. However, pets are only allowed inside vehicles (at no additional charge), with no kennels on offer. For this reason, foot passengers are not allowed to transport pets on this ferry.

As there are up to 7 daily crossings, both during the day and night, I would recommend selecting a cooler time of day for a crossing with your dog during summer. Add up to four pets to your booking when selecting the number of passengers.

Previously, it was possible to ask a staff member to visit your pet during the crossing, if you were concerned. However, I can no longer see that this option is available – double check if it’s important to you.

Click here for more information

Taking Your Dog from the Republic of Ireland to Northern Ireland

Prior to Brexit, it was easy to take your dog in a car across the border from the Republic of Ireland  to Northern Ireland, and vice versa, with generally no checks performed.

This continues to be the case. The DAERA website clearly states that there is no change to the requirements for pets travelling in between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, due to Northern Ireland still being part of the European Union for pet travel.

You are technically required to have a pet passport for your dog, including microchip and valid rabies vaccination, as for crossing any country border within the EU. However, DAERA state that a “risk-based approach is taken with regards to the level of compliance checks on pets”, with checks rarely occurring.

There is no need to worm your dog travelling between Northern Ireland and Ireland, in either direction, so proof of this is not required.

Travelling Directly to Northern Ireland with a Dog

Prior to the end of the Brexit transition, if you were planning on travelling directly to Northern Ireland from outside of the UK and the Republic of Ireland with a dog, you needed to apply for Import Authorisation for your dog.

An Import Authorisation was required to be obtained at least 10 days in advance. You were also required to engage and pay for the services of an approved quarantine establishment to check your pet’s paperwork on arrival.

This was because this was not an approved route under the Pet Travel Scheme. The approved routes were for pets to firstly enter Great Britain or enter the Republic of Ireland , then travel onwards to Northern Ireland.

However, it is not clear if this requirement still applies following the Brexit transition. The DAERA website simply states that if you are transporting pets directly to Northern Ireland via air, you should email [email protected] .

You May Also Like

• How to Travel with a Dog Between the UK and Europe
• Travelling to the Republic of Ireland with a Dog
• Dog-Friendly Belfast

About the Author

Shandos Cleaver is the founder of Travelnuity: Dog-Friendly Travel. She has travelled extensively with her Miniature Dachshund, Schnitzel, including to 33 countries across Europe, every state and territory of Australia except Tasmania, and 10 of the United States. She’s passionate about providing inspiration and information to others wanting to travel with their dogs, whether close to home or internationally.

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57 thoughts on “Travelling to Northern Ireland with a Dog in 2023”

Hi, I am travelling in August with my puppy on the Cairnryan to Belfast route. I am very confused as there is no clear information online regarding travel of pets between England/Scotland and Northern Ireland. I understand there is no requirement for a passport, although this may change in January 2021 due to ‘Brexit’. What i do not understand is if my puppy requires additional vaccinations. She is up to date on her vaccines but does not have Rabbies, she also got a flee and worming treatment a few months ago but does she need this done again? My Vet does not seem to understand that Northern Ireland is part of Britian and i do not want to give my pet anymore injections than is required. Please help! Thanks in advance!

Hi Jenny, There is no requirement for additional vaccinations or flea or worming treatments to take your dog to Northern Ireland. Here is the Northern Ireland government page about travelling with pets: https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/travelling-pets . While it doesn’t state outright on the page nothing is required, if anything was required it would be covered here. When I travelled on the Cairnryan to Belfast route, I didn’t require anything. If you are in doubt, I recommend ringing up Stenaline to double check. Enjoy your trip to Northern Ireland! Shandos

You will be OK Jenny, the rules will not be enforced for domestic pets until after October.

Hello, I have a puppy with full vaccinations and an older dog with none since being a pup however neither have pet passports and we are looking to travel in November 2020 – What is the liklihood that we would be turned away at the port of dublin due to not having the right documentation as we would be looking to do this crossing as cheaper? Just worried we would make a

I recommend getting a pet passport for both your dogs. There’s plenty of time to do so. I think many years ago pet passports weren’t often checked, but have been increasingly checked in recent years, especially with the end of the Brexit transition coming up at the end of the year.

I travel back and forward between Scotland and Northern Ireland as I have family and grandchildren in NI. I part own a house in Scotland and part own a house in Northern Ireland. What requirements do I need ensure my dogs are not put into quarantine. I travel at least three times a year. I have 3 dogs born in Scotland and have never required any passport or rabies vaccinations as Scotland and NI have no rabies. What do I require for them to travel back and forward several times a year. I also have a 6 month old pup who has her own Latvian passport. What do I require for her to travel back and forward. Does this passport cover her for 3 years to travel to NI. Does she have to get any checks when returning from the NI to Scotland. Do I have to get Rabies vaccinations every 3 years for every one of my dogs. Do I have to get vet checks prior to my returning from the NI. Is there a difference in the rules whether I stay in NI for 3 / 4 weeks or 4/5 months. Please clarify. Can you please contact me via my email.

Hi Marigold – sorry about the delay replying, I’ve had a short vacation over Christmas.

Unfortunately, the situation is changing from 1st January. For your dogs travelling to Northern Ireland from Scotland, they will now required a microchip, rabies vaccination (at least 21 days in advance), worming treatment (between 1 to 5 days before travelling) and health certificate (within 10 days of travel). And yes your dogs will require a rabies booster every 3 years.

To travel back to Scotland, none of this is required, if you stay for under 4 months. The pet health certificate issued to travel to NI can be used to return to Scotland, but is only valid for 4 months. If you stay longer, you need to visit a vet to get a GB pet health certificate, unless you pet has an EU pet passport.

For the dog with the Latvian passport, you can use this in place of the pet health certificate. This passport will remain valid while the rabies vaccine is valid or longer if her rabies boosters are done in the EU (presumably including Northern Ireland). There may also be the option of getting your other dogs a Northern Ireland issued EU pet passport, which would replace the health certificate, but considering you also need the worming treatment each visit to go to NI you still need to visit the vet.

The UK government does note: “The UK government recognises that pet owners and assistance dog users will need time to adjust to these changes. It’s working with the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) on an enforcement approach that takes these challenges into account.”

For more information and any further clarifications, see: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/pet-travel-to-europe-from-1-january-2021 and https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/travelling-pets .

Enforcement of the rules for domestic pets has been put back to October 2021. Perhaps there will be some compromise works out by then.

This information is dated , best to follow .gov .uk travelling with my pet, don’t leave it to chance..x

Aileen – I have recently updated this post with the latest government news.

From DAERA website Pet Checks Routine checks on the non-commercial movement of pets from GB to NI will be delayed until at least 1 October 2021

I live in Southern Ireland and have reserved a pedigree puppy in Northern Ireland which will be ready for collection at the beginning of Feb. I am confused reading the varios information and wonder if you can kindly let me know if there is anything I need to be aware of or to ensure is in place/done before bringing the puppy to southern ireland? Many Thanks

Normally, your dog would need a microchip and rabies vaccine at least 21 days before movement, but there are exceptions in place for puppies, that are too young for the rabies vaccine. These are the EU rules: https://ec.europa.eu/food/animals/pet-movement/eu-legislation/young-animals_en . However, I don’t think Ireland allows the exception, looking at this. I’m not fully across this, as I’m more familiar with the rules for older dogs being taken on vacation. Also, I’m not sure whether the transport is commercial or non-commercial, I think it depends on whether you go and pick up your puppy.

Hi Shandos,

I’m travelling from Northern Ireland to Liverpool next month. I’m confused if there is any requirement for my dog travelling to the UK from Northern Ireland?

It sure is a lot more confusing today! If you’re only travelling to GB and not returning to NI, there are no passport or vaccine requirements, other than the standard requirement for dogs to microchipped. This is covered half-way down this page: https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/travelling-pets . However, the extra steps apply if you return to NI.

Thanks you so much for your reply. That’t really helpful 🙂

Hi Shandos I am moving to the Republic of Ireland later this year. I would like to travel from Scotland via ferry with my dog to Northern Ireland and then by car to the Republic of Ireland. Is this feasible considering Brexit? the Irish border? She has a pet passport. Appreciate your advice.

Nan – I haven’t been keeping up to date with changes for the movement of people (as I’m currently in Australia), but for pets, the new key border crossing is when you cross to Northern Ireland. As well as requiring a microchip and valid rabies vaccine at least 21 days before entry, your dog will also require a worming treatment at a vet and health certificate. The pet passports issued before 2021 are no longer valid for crossing the border. I recommend visiting a vet well before your travel.

Once in Northern Ireland, I expect you will not need to show anything when driving across into the Republic of Ireland (as occurred when I visited previously), but it is expected that your dog is vaccinated for rabies and you have a health certificate or passport.

Enjoy your trip!

I live in Northern Ireland, I have a Minature Schnauzer which is fully vaccinated and micro chipped, I and travelling to Scotland for a wedding in July 2021, do I need a pet passport to take her and bring her back. If I do how do I go about it and what is the cost.

You don’t need anything extra to take your dog to Scotland, but you’ll need extra steps to return to Northern Ireland with your dog. Your dog will require a worming treatment done by a vet between 24 hours and 5 days of returning to Northern Ireland. This should also be able to be done in Northern Ireland before leaving, if your trip is short. You’ll also need either an animal health certificate or one of the new style NI pet passports. I recommend speaking to your pet before your trip. Unfortunately, I don’t know the current cost.

From Daera website Pet Checks Routine checks on the non-commercial movement of pets from GB to NI will be delayed until at least 1 October 2021

Enjoy the wedding

I’m moving to NI from England in June. I have 3 small dogs and a house cat. I contacted DEFRA and they informed me checks won’t be enforced until july 1st. 2 of my dogs have heart conditions and have previously had adverse reactions to vaccines. I was advised that there were no exceptions in the legislation but I will unlikely be checked. I am a single parent of two young children, if they refuse us entry or insist on quarantine we will end up homeless or without our beloved animals and in debt from quarantine costs. I’m terrified. Do you have any advice?

Based on DEFRA’s advice, I’d probably take advantage of the period prior to 1st July to move. I had heard they weren’t doing checks early in the year, but this is even later than previously mentioned, probably due to Covid. As an emergency backup, find out the details of a kennel or vet near your departure point, and arrive extra early, in case something does come up.

The checks are on the NI side not GB side. They’ve now delayed the checks till 1st October. Hopefully they will be scrapped all together.

The new entry rules to NI from the UK regarding pet passports are not currently being enforced by NI. This is clearly stated on the NI gov website and in recent news media. You do need a pet passport however to cross into the Republic. So your above advice about requiring rabies and a health certificate etc is not correct yet. A good opportunity to get your pup into NI to get an NI issued EU pet passport!

That’s great to read, earlier in the year they were planning to enforce a lot earlier.

Hi We are travelling from cainryan to Belfast for 2 weeks in august with our dog. Can anyone confirm if we need to get the animal health certificate and worming to get into Northern Ireland? I can see that checks are delayed until 2021 but didn’t want to get caught out Thanks

I recommend doing it still, just for your peace of mind, although the reports are that it isn’t being enforced yet. But it might start being enforced!

Help!!! I am so confused. I am moving to Belfast after FINALLY getting my US passport renewed (nightmare!!! *covid*)

Do I still need to get my dog and cat pet passports for entry if traveling after Oct 1 of this year?

Thank you Andrea

If you’re coming from the US, you’ll need to get UK pet health certificates completed and certified by USDA APHIS. The EU and other pet passports are only relevant once living in the jurisdiction.

Planning to travel to NI in July 2022. Are the checks on pets entering NI still suspended, have they been scrapped ? If reinstated are they likely to be enforceable immediately ?

The checks are still suspended. It hasn’t been announced that they are being scrapped, but I believe the government is hoping GB will move to the same category as Switzerland, where they won’t bd required. I recommend checking this page for the latest: https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/travelling-pets

Thank you – very helpful

Since the UK left the EU and the transition period ended, according to DAERA, a worming treatment has technically been required to enter NI from GB. However, checks are not currently being made, so this is not being enforced. Hopefully the situation with pet travel to and from GB changes again, back to being more similar when UK was part of the EU.

Hi, I am travelling from Northern Ireland to England next week with a puppy of 10 weeks old. We are travelling overnight from Belfast to Liverpool and after researching the dog lodges on Stenaline, I would not be happy to leave such a young puppy on their own surrounded by other dogs. We would like to leave the pup in the car but unsure if we can visit it at anytime as I have heard that once the boat set sail that you are not allowed in that area. What would you advised as I am concerned for the pup because of them spending first night away from litter and long journey.

That’s a tough situation. It’d be better if you could take the ferry from Belfast to Cairnryan, as small dogs can travel in a carrier bag onboard and it’s a quick trip. However, I understand that ferry to Liverpool is probably better suited for you. I haven’t heard that you can visit dogs in the car after departing, can you call up the customer centre and ask? They might make an exception in certain cases, too. Otherwise, it’s probably best to put the pup in the dog lodge so that you can regular walk him/her.

Hi, I’m travelling from Sri Lanka to Northern Ireland. I want to know if there’s any possibility of taking my dog as excess baggage to the UK, or do they have to travel as manifest cargo? Any help you can give me regarding this would be appreciated.

Unfortunately dogs travelling to the UK need to travel as manifest cargo, not excess baggage. The alternative is to fly into the continent, such as Paris or Amsterdam, then travel via ferry/car/train to Northern Ireland.

Hi, I am currently living in Northern Ireland and my cat is living in Germany. I want to go back to Germany and bring my cat back to NI, is it possible I take the flight from Germany to Dublin with my cat and then take the bus to Belfast? I want my cat to stay with me in the cabin, do you know any airlines allow me to do that? Thanks a lot for you help in advance.

Wang – It should be possible to fly your cat in the cabin to Dublin. Although most airlines don’t allow this, some airlines do, although I’ve heard from other travellers that airline staff say different things at different times – see the comments on my post about travelling to Ireland, https://www.travelnuity.com/taking-a-dog-to-ireland/ . Two possible options are Vueling and Iberia Express. It’s probably not possible to take your cat on the bus, but cats are allowed to sit on your lap in a secure carrier on the train from Dublin to Belfast. Hope this helps!

Hi,I would like to visit my relatives in NI. I have have an assistance dog with ID passbook, and have a record of all his vacations, flea and tick, and worm treatment from berth, which is four and a half years worth. 1. Does he have to have a rabies jab. 2. I presume I can take him with on any crossing.

Rabies vaccines are still not being enforced on dogs travelling from GB to NI, and there are no requirements for the return journey. Assistance dogs should be accepted by any ferry crossing, although I’m not across documentation requirements.

Hi, I am hoping to travel from the US to Ireland with my Dachshund. I got her a France Pet Passport in 2021. Do you know if this will be enough? Of course, she has a Microchip and is up to date with her shots. I am looking to do a road trip through Europe with her.

That should be fine, as long as her latest rabies shot is in the pet passport, not on a separate certificate. Some airlines also require a health certificate from your vet – but just a simple letter, not a complicated form that needs to be certified. Additionally, Ireland also requires an inspection on arrival for dogs flying into the country from outside of the EU – see my separate post on Travelling to the Republic of Ireland (I assume you mean the Republic of Ireland, not Northern Ireland).

I’m hoping to travel by ferry in July with my dog from cairnryan to Belfast. Are checks on dogs still suspended?

The checks are still suspended.

Hi, I am wondering if you have any more updates 6 months on about the need for a AHC travelling from Scotland to Northern Ireland (& on to Ireland) and back again during August 2023? Prices are high for both the rabies vaccination, tapeworm treatment at a vets as well. Any advice would be much appreciated. Thank you. Sue

There has been no change as of yet, with paperwork still not being checked. I expect there will be a change in the future, but there should be advance warning.

Hi, I’m travelling from Holyhead GB to Dublin on StenaLine on route to Northern Ireland (by car) on the 27th of August. Are checks on dogs still suspended?

While checks going into Northern Ireland are suspended, I haven’t heard of checks going to Dublin being suspended. I would make sure you’re ready with an EU pet health certificate and worming complete.

Thank you. I will take the trip from Liverpool to Belfast rather.

Travelling from Cairnryan to Larne in October with dog. Question re worming. He has eu pet passport but I recall a lot of chat about not letting UK vet write in it. Was that just for rabies vax? Should I do the working treatment 120 hours before travel and let UK vet confirm in dog passport?

At the moment, the checks including the worming treatment aren’t being enforced, so it’s up to you whether you do it. I’m pretty certain that non-EU vets can write in the worming treatment section, just not the rabies section.

Hi Shandos how do I keep uptodate with the suspended checks ? I’m possibly travelling in November.

Check out the DAERA website for any updates: https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/travelling-pets

Hi Shandos, Thank you for your informative articles, however my head is spinning trying to work out my unique circumstance and wonder if you are able to help… We will be travelling by ferry from Scotland to Northern Ireland, drive down into Rep Ireland and catch the ferry from the south of Ireland to Spain early November. We are originally from Australia and have been travelling. Our dog initially got a AHC to come to the UK and then one to travel Europe before coming back into UK. Whilst we were in Europe we got the dog a EU Pet passport as it lasts more than 4 months and is cheaper than all the AHC…..Anyway… My question…Am I able to use the EU Pet Passport from Scotland to NI (and do I need a vet health check or a tapeworm?)…drive down into RI ok and exit Ireland for Spain with no other paperwork than my initial EU Pet passport; or will I need another tapeworm treatment. Sorry for the long and complex post but I’m going round in circles here!! Thank you

Rachel – Thanks for reaching out to me. Yes, your EU pet passport will be fine to enter NI, Republic of Ireland and Spain. As long as there is an up-to-date rabies vaccine recorded on it.

With the worming treatment, this is technically required, but is not being checked entering NI. I doubt it would be checked crossing the land border into RoI. (When I crossed the border pre-Brexit, there were no checks, and I believe this is still the case.) Prior to Brexit, there was no need for a worming treatment on this route, and you likely could get away without it.

But if you’re worried, perhaps get it done by the vet. It’s generally cheap (a lot cheaper than the full AHC). Vets outside the EU can enter worming treatments on the page in the EU pet passport (just not enter rabies vaccines) or have the vet write it on their letterhead. I hope this is clearer now!

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Permanent solutions needed for pet checks

Date published: 15 September 2021

DAERA Minister Edwin Poots MLA has instructed his officials to indefinitely allow all pet dogs, cats and ferrets to travel from Great Britain (GB) to Northern Ireland (NI) without checks while negotiations between the UK government (UKG) and European Union (EU) continue.

The move comes after the Minister spoke to Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs George Eustice, raising a number of issues he remains concerned about, including pet travel. It also follows last week’s statement by Lord Frost to extend the overall grace periods for GB to NI trade indefinitely.

Minister Poots said: “While negotiations continue between the UKG and EU to find solutions to the currently unworkable Protocol, I am not prepared to let people travelling with pets between GB and NI deal with the ongoing uncertainty around checks and whether or not they need to vaccinate their animal for diseases that are all but eradicated here. 

“I want to give much needed clarity and therefore, I have instructed my officials to indefinitely allow all pet dogs, cats and ferrets travelling from GB to NI without checks, until the negotiations are successfully concluded.

“The checking requirements I have paused are not necessary, particularly given that the last case of rabies on these islands was in 1922. I have also been particularly concerned about the impact these measures may have on travellers with assistance pets.”

The Minister continued: “I will continue to press the UK Government and EU for long term solutions to the currently unworkable Protocol - on an almost daily basis, I hear from retailers, the agri-food sector, businesses both big and small, travellers and the general public about the difficulties they are facing as a result of it. This must change. They must find pragmatic, and most importantly, permanent solutions to the range of issues still outstanding.”

While DAERA will not be conducting routine checks it is important to note that DAERA officials reserve the right to carry out checks if illegal activity is suspected or there are welfare concerns.

Notes to editors: 

• As a result of the Withdrawal Agreement and Northern Ireland (NI) Protocol, pets moving from Great Britain (GB) to NI are now required to adhere to the pet travel rules for third countries. This includes the requirements for additional documentation, rabies vaccination and a tapeworm treatment.
• On 6 September, Lord Frost issued a written statement declaring that the current approach to the operation of the Protocol would continue.  The Statement builds on the proposals set out in the UK Government Command Paper of 21 July which proposed that pets remaining in the UK, and that meet domestic legal requirements, should be able to move freely between GB and NI.
•  Follow DAERA on Twitter and Facebook
• All media queries should be directed to the DAERA Press Office  ​​
• The Executive Information Service operates an out of hour’s service for media enquiries only between 1800hrs and 0800hrs Monday to Friday and at weekends and public holidays. The duty press officer can be contacted on 028 9037 8110.

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Animal imports and exports: guidance

This guidance applies only to import and export of farm animals and domesticated animals.

Imports and exports of animals and animal products represent an important and significant contribution to the UK economy - but they can also bring with them the risk of animal diseases. Imports are therefore subject to strict controls at the UK border under EU and national rules.

Trade within the EU

Live animals and their products (including germplasm) are traded freely within the EU. Responsibility lies with the member state of origin to ensure that such trade meets animal and public health standards as set out in EU legislation.

Imports from third countries

Animals and their products imported into the EU from third countries must have been produced to animal and public health standards at least equivalent to those in the EU.

They may only be imported from countries approved by the EU and, in case of food, from approved establishments. All products must be accompanied by the appropriate animal and/or public health certification and then entered on the EU's Trade Control and Expert System (TRACES) which provides robust tracking and audit.

Animals and products may only enter the EU at specifically approved points of entry - called Border Inspection Posts (BIPs) - where they are subject to checks by Local Authorities or the Animal & Plant Health Agency (APHA).

The Animal & Plant Health Agency (APHA) deliver a wide range of statutory inspection and certification services for businesses and individuals which support consumer confidence and facilitate the ability to trade. These statutory charges have been updated to align with government policy requiring that services of commercial benefit should be charged at full-cost recovery rate. The new fees , which include fees for checks undertaken by APHA at Border Inspection Posts (BIPs), come into force on the 24 June 2013.

Importer information notes on various animals can be found on the Defra website.

Pet owners are encouraged to contact APHA's CITES team to check whether they are required to obtain any permits or documentation relating to CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species).

Specified animal pathogens

Specified pathogens are viruses and other infectious agents that must be controlled and contained to prevent their release or escape into the environment. If Specified Pathogens are released, they can cause serious animal or human disease. A full list of these pathogens can be found in the Specified Animal Pathogens Order (Scotland) 2009 .

Information about the licences you need and the rules you must follow to import Specified Animal Pathogens into Scotland is available on the UK government website .

Personal food imports

Controls are in place to reduce the risk of contaminated food (in particular meat and dairy products) and plants being brought into the UK and putting people, animals and agriculture at risk of disease. The risk can also be economic with the Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreak in 2001 possibly originating from meat imported illegally into the UK, or via catering waste from ships or airlines. This outbreak was estimated to have cost £3 billion relating to agriculture and the food chain. People travelling outside of the EU can check what food they can, and can't bring back to the UK here .

You can bring your dog, cat or ferret into the UK without quarantine as long as they meet the rules of the Pet Travel Scheme. Other animals that are brought into the UK must have an import licence, they must also stay in quarantine for six months after arriving in the UK.

In Scotland there are no quarantine premises that are approved for routine commercial use, and only one short term emergency quarantine premise available. Emergency quarantine premises can only be used for dogs and cats that have landed in GB and are subsequently found to be non-compliant with the Pet Travel Scheme or to have been illegally imported. Details of the emergency quarantine premises are provided below and a list of the GB quarantine premises approved for routine commercial use is available on the Defra website .

General licences

Relevant legislation.

The Trade in Animals and Related Products (Scotland) Regulations 2012 lay down the rules for the imports of animal products from outside the EU and the intra-Community trade of live animals and the trade of some products.

The Bovine Semen (Scotland) Regulations 2007 lay down the rules for the collection, storage and and use of bovine semen for domestic and intra-union trade.

Tel: 0300 244 9874 Address: Animal Health and Welfare, P Spur Saughton House, Broomhouse Drive, Edinburgh EH11 3XD

Updated Pets.

Added information note to page to indicate it is currently under review and may not reflect the latest position.

Advice on pet travel scheme updated.

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