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Travelling with a pet in the EU
To travel with a dog or cat in Europe you need the European Pet Passport, issued by the vet. It contains health information and the microchip number.
Authority
Ministero della Salute — Ufficio Veterinario
Time
1–2 ore
Updated
Giu 2025
What you need
- ✓Active and registered microchip
- ✓Valid rabies vaccination
- ✓European passport (issued by the vet)
- ✓Anti-parasite treatment (for UK/Ireland/Malta)
Step-by-step procedure
1
Get the European PassportThe passport is issued by an authorised vet. It costs €20–40. It contains owner details, microchip, vaccinations and treatments.
Valid for life but updated at each vaccination.
2
Check the vaccinationsRabies vaccination is mandatory for all EU countries. It must have been administered after the microchip.
Some non-EU countries (UK after Brexit) also require a serological test.
3
Check the carrier's rulesFlights: in cabin if <8kg with carrier (varies by airline). Trains: Trenitalia allows small animals for free, large ones with a reduced ticket.
Always book transport in advance.
4
Check the country's regulationsUK, Ireland, Malta and Finland have additional requirements (anti-parasite treatment or quarantine). Always check the official website.
📄
Passaporto europeo — rilasciato dal veterinario
Ministero della Salute
Frequently asked questions
Responsible authority
The information in this guide is for orientation only and does not constitute legal or tax advice. Always verify on the official portal of the responsible authority.