How to Get a Pet Passport for International Travel

Planning to travel abroad with your furry friend? Then you’ll need more than a plane ticket — you’ll need a pet passport or the equivalent documentation based on your destination. These documents help prove your pet is healthy, vaccinated, and eligible for international entry.

Here’s how to get a pet passport, what it includes, and how to avoid surprises at border control.

What Is a Pet Passport?

A pet passport is a collection of documents that show your pet meets the health and entry requirements of a specific country. While not every nation issues a formal "passport," the term is widely used to describe the paperwork needed for international travel with animals.

A complete pet passport includes:

- Proof of rabies vaccination
- Microchip registration
- Health certificate signed by a licensed veterinarian
- Import permits (in some cases)
- Treatment records for parasites (if required)

In the European Union, pet passports are standardized booklets issued by approved veterinarians. Outside of the EU, the documentation may differ by country.

Countries That Require a Pet Passport or Equivalent

If you're traveling to or from the following regions, expect pet passport regulations:

- European Union countries (standard EU pet passport)
- United Kingdom (animal health certificate post-Brexit)
- Australia and New Zealand (strict quarantine and import permits)
- Japan and South Korea (pre-arrival health clearance)
- United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia (import permits + health certificate)
- United States and Canada (rabies certificate and USDA paperwork for some destinations)

Always check with the consulate or embassy of your destination for the most updated rules. Requirements may change based on current health regulations.

Step-by-Step: How to Get a Pet Passport

Follow these steps to get your pet travel-ready:

1. Microchip Your Pet
- A 15-digit ISO microchip is typically required for international travel
- Must be implanted before or at the time of rabies vaccination

2. Schedule a Vet Appointment
- Your vet must be licensed and, in some countries, USDA-accredited
- Request travel documentation support and gather prior medical records

3. Get Required Vaccinations
- Most countries require rabies vaccination at least 21–30 days before travel
- Some destinations require proof of additional vaccines (e.g., distemper, leptospirosis)

4. Obtain a Health Certificate
- A USDA health certificate (Form 7001 or equivalent) must be signed within 10 days of travel
- For EU countries, a special Annex IV form or EU pet passport may be needed

5. Apply for Import Permits or Quarantine (if applicable)
- Countries like Australia and New Zealand require detailed import forms and mandatory quarantine

6. Review Airline Requirements
- Airlines may ask for copies of vaccination and health certificates during check-in

7. Translate Documents if Needed
- Some countries require forms translated into their official language

Key Vaccines and Health Requirements

Typical international requirements include:

- Rabies vaccine (valid for at least 30 days, often no more than 12 months old)
- Microchip matching the documents
- Tapeworm or parasite treatment (UK and parts of Europe)
- Distemper, parvovirus, and kennel cough (recommended but not always required)
- No signs of illness at the time of travel

Countries may also impose waiting periods after vaccinations or microchipping before allowing entry.

Tips for a Smooth International Pet Trip

To avoid problems during customs inspection:

- Make multiple copies of all documents
- Keep originals and copies in your carry-on bag
- Double-check airline pet policies and country entry rules 2–4 weeks before travel
- Label your pet’s carrier with name, your contact info, and destination address
- Have emergency contact info for a vet in your destination country

If you're transiting through multiple countries, be aware of layover rules — even short stops may trigger documentation checks.

Final Thoughts: Passport Ready Pets

Getting a pet passport may feel like a hassle, but it’s crucial to avoid denied boarding or lengthy quarantines. Start the process early, double-check every requirement, and work closely with your vet and airline to ensure everything is in order.

Traveling internationally with pets is more common than ever — and with the right paperwork, it can be safe, legal, and stress-free.