Animal Health Certificates: The Complete UK Guide for EU Pet Travel

Nov 4, 2025

2 min read

Updated: 4 days ago

An Animal Health Certificate, or AHC, is the main pet travel document used by most dogs, cats and ferrets travelling from Great Britain to the European Union. It confirms key identification and rabies requirements and must be issued by an Official Veterinarian.

What does my pet need before an AHC can be issued?

Your pet must be microchipped and have a valid rabies vaccination. The microchip must have been implanted or read before the rabies vaccination used for travel. After a first rabies vaccination, you must normally wait at least 21 full days before entering the EU.

When can the AHC be issued?

The certificate must be issued within 10 days before your pet enters the EU. The appointment therefore needs to be planned around your actual EU entry date, not simply the date you leave home.

How long is an AHC valid?

After entry into the EU, the certificate can generally support onward travel within the EU and return to Great Britain for a limited period, subject to the rules and any destination-specific treatments. A new AHC is normally required for each new trip from Great Britain into the EU.

Do dogs need tapeworm treatment?

Dogs travelling to certain destinations, including Ireland, Finland, Malta, Norway and Northern Ireland, require an approved tapeworm treatment given by a veterinarian within the required 24 to 120 hour window before arrival.

How much does an Animal Health Certificate cost?

Prices vary by provider. The Pet Passport Co. offers standard AHCs from £139, repeat AHCs from £119 and urgent services where available. Home visits are available within local service areas, with collection points providing another convenient option for wider catchment areas.