How Long Does an Animal Health Certificate Last? UK AHC Validity Explained
One of the most common Animal Health Certificate questions is how long the document remains valid. The answer depends on which part of the journey you mean.
You have 10 days to enter the EU
An Animal Health Certificate can normally be used for entry into the EU for up to 10 days from the date it is issued. Your appointment therefore needs to be arranged around the date your pet first enters the EU.
How long can I travel within the EU?
Once you have entered the EU, the same AHC can normally be used for onward travel within the EU and for return to Great Britain for up to four months from the date of issue, or until the rabies vaccination recorded on the certificate expires, whichever comes first.
Can I use the same AHC for another holiday from Great Britain?
No. A new trip from Great Britain into the EU normally requires a new Animal Health Certificate, even if your previous certificate is still within its four-month onward-travel period.
What if I travel frequently?
Frequent travellers still need a new AHC for each new departure from Great Britain, but repeat services can make the process quicker and cheaper when your documentation is already on file.
The Pet Passport Co. offers repeat Animal Health Certificates from £119 for eligible returning customers.
When should I book?
Book early enough for your rabies and microchip records to be checked, but make sure the certificate itself is issued within the 10-day window before EU entry.
Find your nearest service area: https://www.thepetpassportco.co.uk/locations
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