Transporting Pets from Non-EU Countries – What You Need to Know

Transporting pets from countries outside the European Union is possible, but it requires meeting a series of strictly defined conditions. Here is the key information that will help you prepare to move your animal, ensuring its safety and compliance with the rules.

Conditions Required for Transporting Animals

1. Marking the Animal: A pet, such as a dog, cat or ferret, must be marked with a transponder (microchip) that meets the specifications set out in Annex II to Regulation (EU) No 576/2013.
2. Rabies Vaccination: Every pet must be vaccinated against rabies. The vaccination should be given when the animal is at least 12 weeks old, and no earlier than the day the transponder was implanted. The vaccination becomes valid no earlier than 21 days after the date of the first vaccination, and each subsequent one must be given within the validity period of the previous one.
3. Rabies Antibody Titration Test: A test measuring antibodies against the rabies virus should be carried out at least 30 days after vaccination and no less than three months before the move. The test must show an antibody level equal to or greater than 0.5 IU/ml and must be carried out in an approved laboratory.
4. Treatment against Echinococcus multilocularis: Only dogs need to be treated against this parasite within a set time before entering certain Member States or Norway. The treatment must be confirmed in the animal's passport.
5. Health Certificate and Declaration: The animal must be accompanied by a health certificate, issued and approved by an authorised veterinary surgeon, along with a written declaration from the owner that the move is non-commercial.

Exceptions and Special Cases

• More than five animals: If you're transporting more than five animals, they must meet the health conditions that apply to commercial imports.
• Animals marked with a tattoo: Animals that were tattoo-marked before 3 July 2011 are acceptable, provided the tattoo is clearly legible.
• Young animals: Some EU countries may allow the movement of young animals that don't meet all the vaccination requirements.

How to Complete the Formalities?

The notification must be submitted to the relevant customs and tax office, or through the electronic system, if that option is available. The procedure should be started early enough so that all the required documents and tests are ready before the planned date of the move.

For Clients Moving with Animals

If you're planning to relocate and want to bring your pets with you, remember to meet all the required conditions. This is essential for the safety of both the animals and other people, and to avoid problems at the border. More information on the rules for transporting plants can be found on the Gov.pl website. Remember that following these rules is essential not only for the health and safety of your pet, but also to ensure compliance with international public and animal health regulations.

Related guides for people returning from the UK to Poland

• A complete guide to moving from the UK to Poland
• Documents for clearing transfer of residence property
• How to prepare an inventory list for clearance
• The key rules for transporting transfer of residence property

For an unusual trip or a larger number of animals, it's best to confirm the documents with our team in advance.