If you’re relocating to the UK, you can bring your cat or dog with you by following the UK pet import rules. Known for its parks, pet-friendly cafes, and even historic attractions that welcome animals, the UK is a great place for four-legged companions. Understanding and meeting the import requirements will help ensure a safe, smooth move for you and your pet.
To bring your pet into the UK, you must complete the following steps:
Pets must enter via an approved carrier and route, unless travelling from Ireland or already within the UK. Assistance dogs have more options.
Pets must enter via an approved carrier and route, unless travelling from Ireland or already within the UK, but assistance dogs have more options.
Your dog or cat must have a registered microchip before travel, with rules varying by location. Failing to microchip your pet when required can result in fines of up to £500, and the microchipping must be done before the rabies vaccine is given.
After microchipping, vaccinate against rabies and wait at least 21 days from the primary dose before travel.
The required documents depend on your country of departure; see full details here.
If you’re bringing a dog, they may require tapeworm treatment administered by a vet. This treatment must be given at least 24 hours and no more than 5 days before arriving in Great Britain.
This is required if you’re not selling or transferring your pet.
If leaving the UK with your pet, know the return requirements in advance.
Ideally, pets should travel during the first year of a one-year rabies vaccine or the first year of a three-year vaccine. If in years two or three, you’ll need proof the vaccine has never lapsed, many owners choose to re-vaccinate before travel.
To avoid paying Customs VAT on arrival, apply for a Transfer of Residence (ToR) number before travel. Without it, VAT will be charged.
Pets entering the UK must arrive as manifest cargo. This means they’ll travel in an airline-approved crate, so start crate training early to help them adjust. Owners of large breeds may need a custom-built crate to comply with airline cargo regulations.
To avoid your pet’s entry being classed as “commercial,” you must arrive in the UK within five days of their arrival, the five-day rule. If you can’t meet this deadline, your pet will need a commercial health certificate, customs brokerage services and you may face extra import charges.
Some owners with small pets prefer to fly into France or the Netherlands, then travel by car or pet-friendly ferry to the UK. This option requires two health certificates: one for the EU and one for the UK, but it can be cheaper than direct cargo transport.
The UK is known for being welcoming to pets, especially dogs. From dog-friendly pubs and cafes to parks, beaches and even heritage sites, there are plenty of options for outings. More hotels and rental properties now accept pets, but always confirm policies before booking.
If moving from the UK to another country, check your destination’s pet import rules well ahead of time. You may also need an export health certificate from DEFRA.
If there’s any chance you’ll return to the UK, get an EU pet passport before you leave. For travel to non-listed countries, a rabies antibody blood test can help you avoid a three-month wait before re-entry.
Ready to make the UK your new home with your furry friend? Register with us today and let our expert team guide you through every step of your relocation, from pet import rules to starting your teaching role. We’re here to make your move smooth and stress-free for you and your pet!
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