UK Seeks Return to EU Pet Passport Scheme to Simplify Travel for Pet Owners
UK Pushes to Rejoin EU Pet Passport Scheme to Ease Travel for Pet Owners
The UK government is seeking to rejoin the EU pet passport scheme, according to local media reports, in an effort to simplify cross-border travel for British pet owners. The issue is expected to be raised at the upcoming EU-UK summit in London, hosted by Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Monday.
The discussions are part of a broader effort to rebuild UK-EU relations post-Brexit, with the pet passport scheme emerging as one of several key topics under negotiation.
Rejoining the Scheme Will Require Concessions
While the move has gained attention, rejoining the EU pet passport system is not expected to be straightforward.
According to The Independent, the UK would need to align with EU sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) standards to be considered for re-entry into the scheme. This would likely involve agreeing to a long-term fisheries deal—a significant EU demand.
“Nothing is agreed until everything is agreed,” a government source was quoted as saying, highlighting the complexity of the ongoing negotiations.
Why the EU Pet Passport Matters
The European pet passport is an official document required for pets (primarily dogs, cats, and ferrets) traveling between EU countries. It includes:
The animal’s microchip or tattoo identification number
Vaccination records (including rabies)
Owner contact information
Before Brexit, British pets could freely travel within the EU using this passport. However, since January 2021, UK pet owners have been required to obtain an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) for each trip.
Key post-Brexit requirements now include:
AHC issued within 10 days of travel
Cost up to €237 (£200) per certificate
Microchipping, rabies vaccination, and tapeworm treatment (for dogs)
A Return to Simplicity for Pet Owners
Rejoining the EU pet passport scheme would offer major advantages, reducing both cost and administrative burden for pet owners. Unlike the AHC, the pet passport is valid for the pet’s lifetime, provided vaccinations are kept up to date.
For thousands of UK travelers who regularly bring their pets to Europe, restoring access to this system would represent a practical and symbolic step toward smoother relations with the EU.
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