European Pet Passport: Everything You Need to Know as an Owner for Safe Travel
If you are planning a trip abroad and wouldn't dream of leaving your dog or cat behind, the first and most important step is obtaining the European Pet Passport (EU Pet Passport). This document ensures that your pet can cross borders lawfully and smoothly within the European Union.
We have gathered the most important information to ensure your joint adventure is truly a worry-free experience.
Why Do You Need a Passport? The European Pet Passport is a standardized document accepted throughout the EU, certifying the animal's identity and health status. This document can be issued by any private veterinarian authorized to issue passports at their clinic.
Important detail: The passport is only valid if the owner's signature is included. Please do not forget to sign the document, as it may be considered invalid during an inspection without it!
Basic Conditions for Issuing the Passport:
Microchip: It is essential that your pet has an ISO-standard microchip. The implantation of the chip must precede the rabies vaccination or happen at the same time.
Registration: The veterinarian registers the passport in the national electronic database, allowing the data to be officially retrieved.
The Strict Rules of Rabies Vaccination The cornerstone of crossing the border is a valid rabies vaccination. Regulations prescribe a precise schedule:
The first vaccination: Puppies must receive their first rabies shot between 3 and 4 months of age.
The 21-day waiting period: 21 days must pass from the administration of the first vaccination before the animal can travel. This period is necessary for immunity to develop.
Repetition and continuity: In the case of dogs, a booster shot is required half a year (6 months) after the first vaccination, followed by annual renewals to maintain immunity.
Attention! If the validity of the vaccination expires even by a single day, you must wait out the 21-day waiting period again after the new shot is administered before traveling. The legislation makes no exceptions in this case.
Useful Tips for Planning
Prepare in time! Due to the rules mentioned above, we recommend visiting the veterinarian at least one month before departure. This ensures all vaccinations become valid and leaves enough time for administration.
Number Limits and Representation
Max. 5 animals: You may travel with a maximum of five pets for non-commercial (hobby) purposes at one time. Above this number, commercial rules and stricter regulations apply.
If the owner is not traveling: If your pet is being taken abroad not by you, but by a trusted person (e.g., a friend or professional transporter), a written authorization/declaration from the owner is required.
Specific Rules Although the passport is sufficient in most places, some countries may impose additional conditions. Therefore, it is always worth inquiring about the latest entry rules at the Hungarian embassy of the destination country.
Summary With the European Pet Passport, travel is simpler than you think: you only need to obtain it once, and for continuous validity, you simply need to keep the rabies vaccinations in order. If you start the process in time and pay attention to the dates, nothing can stand in the way of your vacation together.
We wish you a safe journey!