Travelling with pets to Ireland (2026)

Last reviewed: 30 October 2026

In short: EU rules apply: a transponder, a rabies vaccination at least 21 days before travel, and a passport (EU) or animal health certificate (non-EU). No more than five animals may travel, except for events.

RuleWhat applies
Identification and passport or certificateTravelling with a dog, cat or ferretDogs, cats and ferrets must be identified with an injectable transponder (a tattoo applied before 3 July 2011 also counts). Travel from another EU country needs a passport signed by the owner and issued in the Member State where the owner normally lives. Entry from outside the EU needs an animal health certificate. [1]
Rabies vaccinationTravelling with a dog, cat or ferretWithin the EU, the pet must have completed its primary rabies vaccination course at least 21 days before the date of movement, or have been re-vaccinated in time. Pets younger than 12 weeks, or 12 to 16 weeks old and vaccinated less than 21 days before, may travel only under conditions, including a general authorisation by the destination Member State. [1]
Entry from outside the EU or the usual regionTravelling with a dog, cat or ferretEntering from a third country, the pet needs the transponder, a rabies vaccination at least 21 days before travel and the animal health certificate (valid 6 months from the entry check or until the vaccination expires). A valid rabies antibody titration test is also needed unless the country is on the lists in Annex I or II to Implementing Regulation (EU) 2026/636. The pet must come in through a travellers' point of entry, except from countries on the Annex I list. [1]
Number of animals per travellerTravelling with a dog, cat or ferretNo more than five dogs, cats or ferrets may be moved in a single non-commercial movement. More are allowed for a competition, exhibition or sporting event, or training for one, with written proof of registration, and only if all animals are over six months old. [2]
Breed or other restrictionsTravelling with a dog, cat or ferret⚠ Not yet verified

Notes

  • The Irish Department of Agriculture pages could not be read. These entries are taken from EU law, which applies directly in Ireland.

Sources

  1. European Commission (EUR-Lex / Publications Office): Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2026/131 of 20 January 2026 supplementing Regulation (EU) 2016/429 ... as regards animal health requirements for non-commercial movement of pet animals (consulted 30 October 2026) · all sources
  2. European Parliament and Council (EUR-Lex / Publications Office): Regulation (EU) 2016/429 on transmissible animal diseases (Animal Health Law) (consulted 30 October 2026) · all sources

Compare all countries →

General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.