Bringing a pet to United Kingdom

Pets enter on approved routes with a GB health certificate. Dogs also need a tapeworm treatment.

What you'll need

1
Microchip
Must do
Your pet needs a 15-digit ISO microchip, put in before the rabies shot.
Start about 60 days before travelUpload: Microchip record
2
Rabies vaccination
Health
A valid rabies shot given at least 21 days before travel, with the vet's certificate.
Start about 30 days before travelUpload: Rabies certificate
3
Airline-approved travel crate
Travel
A sturdy crate with good airflow, secure locks and soft bedding that meets airline (IATA) rules.
Start about 21 days before travel
4
Book pet space and plan check-in
Planning
Reserve your pet's spot with the airline and plan to arrive 3–4 hours early.
Start about 14 days before travel
5
GB animal health certificate
Paperwork
An official vet issues this within 10 days of arriving in Great Britain (or use an EU pet passport).
Start about 10 days before travelUpload: Health certificate
6
Tapeworm treatment (dogs)
Health
A vet gives a tapeworm treatment 1–5 days before arrival and records it.
Start about 3 days before travel
7
Approved route and airline
Travel
Fly on an approved route with an airline that has a government pet checker.
Start about 30 days before travel

Create a trip and this list becomes your personal checklist, with due dates and document tracking.

Rules change often. Always confirm with the official source above before you travel.