Planning to relocate from the USA to Europe with your dog or cat? Europe is one of the most pet-friendly regions in the world — but getting there from the USA requires navigating specific import regulations that vary by country and have changed significantly since Brexit. This guide covers everything you need to know about international pet shipping to Europe, with country-by-country requirements for the UK, France, Germany, Spain, Italy, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Austria, and Sweden.
Here is how the two documents differ:
Use this table to quickly check the key requirements for your destination country, then read the full section below for complete details.
| Country | AHC Required | Microchip | Rabies Vacc. | Titer Test | Quarantine | Special Rules |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🇬🇧 United Kingdom | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ⓘ Sometimes | ✕ No* | Tapeworm treatment (dogs) |
| 🇫🇷 France | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✕ No | ✕ No | 21-day vaccine wait |
| 🇩🇪 Germany | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✕ No | ✕ No | Common PCS destination |
| 🇪🇸 Spain | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✕ No | ✕ No | ID tag required |
| 🇮🇹 Italy | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✕ No | ✕ No | Dogs welcome in most venues |
| 🇳🇱 Netherlands | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✕ No | ✕ No | Highly pet-friendly cities |
| 🇨🇭 Switzerland | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✕ No | ✕ No | Non-EU, follows EU rules |
| 🇦🇹 Austria | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✕ No | ✕ No | Full EU member state |
| 🇸🇪 Sweden | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✕ No | ✕ No | Strong pet welfare laws |
*UK: No quarantine if all documentation is correct. Errors or missing tapeworm treatment will result in immediate quarantine at owner's expense.
The UK has some of the strictest pet import regulations in the world — and they changed significantly after Brexit. Since January 2021, the UK no longer accepts EU pet passports from non-EU countries. All pets entering from the USA require an Animal Health Certificate (AHC).
UK Entry Requirements — Dogs & Cats from USA
France is renowned for its love of dogs — you'll find them welcome in cafes, restaurants, and many public spaces. Entry requirements follow standard EU regulations. France is also a common transit point for pets flying into Europe via Charles de Gaulle (CDG).
France Entry Requirements — Dogs & Cats from USA
Moving your pet to Europe from the USA?
Our IPATA-certified specialists prepare every AHC, coordinate USDA endorsement, and manage airline booking — timed precisely to your departure date.
Germany is one of the most pet-friendly countries in the world, with dogs permitted in many shops, restaurants, and public transport. It is also one of the most common US military duty stations in Europe, making it a frequent destination for PCS moves. Entry requirements follow EU regulations.
Germany Entry Requirements — Dogs & Cats from USA
PCS Move to Europe with Pets?
Germany, the UK, and Italy are three of the most common US military duty stations in Europe. We specialize in military PCS pet relocations and understand your tight timelines and specific destination requirements.
Spain's mild climate and extensive coastline make it a popular relocation destination. Dogs are welcome in many outdoor spaces, parks, and pet-friendly beaches. Spain is a full EU member so standard EU entry regulations apply for pets from the USA.
Spain Entry Requirements — Dogs & Cats from USA
Italy's pet-friendly culture means dogs are welcome in cafes, on public transport, and in many stores. Entry requirements follow EU regulations. Italy is a popular destination for US military families stationed at bases in Vicenza, Naples, and Aviano.
Italy Entry Requirements — Dogs & Cats from USA
The Netherlands is one of the most dog-friendly countries in Europe, with excellent public transport access for pets, widespread dog-friendly accommodations, and a strong culture of pet ownership. Standard EU entry requirements apply.
Netherlands Entry Requirements — Dogs & Cats from USA
Switzerland is not an EU member state but follows EU pet import regulations for pets entering from third countries like the USA. Switzerland has strict pet welfare laws and a strong culture of pet-friendly public spaces, with pets welcome in most hotels, restaurants, and on public transport.
Switzerland Entry Requirements — Dogs & Cats from USA
Austria is a full EU member and follows standard EU pet import regulations. Cities like Vienna and Salzburg are notably welcoming to pets, with designated dog-friendly zones, parks, and accommodations across the country.
Austria Entry Requirements — Dogs & Cats from USA
Sweden places exceptional emphasis on animal welfare and has some of the strongest pet welfare laws in Europe. Extensive parks, green spaces, and pet-friendly public areas make it an ideal destination for pet owners. Sweden is an EU member and follows standard EU pet import regulations.
Sweden Entry Requirements — Dogs & Cats from USA
The most common mistake is underestimating how early to start. The 10-day AHC window cannot open until all vaccinations are current — and vaccinations must be at least 21 days old before the certificate can be issued. Use our pre-travel checklist alongside this timeline.
8–12 Weeks Before Departure
4–6 Weeks Before Departure
10 Days Before Departure
Departure Day
Ready to move your pet to Europe?
Our award-winning team handles every AHC, USDA endorsement, airline booking, and customs checkpoint — so you can focus on your move, not the paperwork.
Are you planning a move or vacation and worried about how to transport your beloved pet? Look no further than Across The Pond Pets' Pet Nanny services! With our expert assistance, we'll ensure your furry, feathered, or scaly friend travels safely and comfortably, no matter where you're going.
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