Have rules changed on bringing pets from UK to France?
Pet travel in the UK to France direction has become more complicated since Brexit
A realignment of regulations on animal and plant health issues should come into place in 2027
Lazy_Bear/Shutterstock
Reader question: What are the latest rules on bringing pet dogs from the UK to France? I heard it was set to become easier again?
Pet travel in the UK to France direction has become more complicated since Brexit and remains so far unchanged, though hopes were raised at a UK-EU summit in May 2025.
This pointed towards an eventual realignment of regulations on animal and plant health issues, which the UK now says is hoped to come into place in 2027.
This may see the UK introduce ‘pet passports’ that are accepted by the EU.
As of May 2026, however, rules have not been updated and Britons bringing pets from the UK to France require an ‘Animal Health Certificate’ (AHC).
This proves the animal has had several vaccinations, including a rabies shot and has a microchip or identification tattoo. Speak to your local vet about getting a certificate
Costs vary (usually between £100 and £200) and last around four months, meaning you need to obtain a new one each time you plan to travel between France and the UK (unless relocating permanently to France).
If you are relocating permanently to France, upon arrival you need to visit a vet to ensure your dog is registered on the I-CAD database.
All domestic cats, dogs, and ferrets need to be included on this pet database, and it must be done within seven days of arriving in the country (it may be best to schedule the appointment in advance).
Once you have relocated to France, you can obtain an EU pet passport for international travel with your pet, which proves its vaccination and health status.
This is required for travel between EU countries, and is also accepted by the UK. It can be used upon re-entering France after a visit to the UK if your main home is in France.
Another possible change is on the way eventually, though not for at least 10 years, is that people bringing pets from outside the EU may have to pre-register them on a 'pet traveller database' (akin to a 'pet ETIAS') prior to bringing their pet.
There will be an exemption if coming from a country recognised as having similar pet welfare rules to the EU, which may include the UK.
