Moving Abroad with Pets: A Guide for Overseas Property Buyers
- International Property Alerts
- October 2, 2025
For many people, a move abroad isn’t just about finding the perfect property — it’s also about bringing your whole family with you, and that often includes your pets.
Whether you’re relocating with a dog, cat, or another animal, each country has different rules around pet passports, vaccinations, quarantine, and airline travel. Planning ahead ensures a smooth transition for you and your furry companion.
1. Can You Take Your Pets Abroad?
Yes — in most cases, you can bring pets abroad, but you must meet entry requirements for your chosen country. These usually include:
- Microchipping for identification
- Up-to-date vaccinations (especially rabies)
- Health certificates from a vet
- Quarantine or waiting periods in some destinations
Tip: Start preparations at least 6 months before your move.
2. EU Pet Travel Rules
If you’re moving to or within the European Union:
- Pets need a microchip, a rabies vaccination, and an animal health certificate (issued by an official vet).
- The old EU Pet Passport scheme is no longer valid for UK residents post-Brexit, but EU-issued passports are still accepted.
Some EU countries also require tapeworm treatment for dogs (e.g. Finland, Ireland, Malta).
3. Moving Pets Outside the EU
United States: Pets need a valid rabies certificate and may face additional state-level rules. Cats usually have fewer requirements than dogs.
Australia & New Zealand: Very strict biosecurity rules. Pets usually face quarantine (10 days in NZ, 10–30 days in Australia) and must meet vaccination/testing requirements months in advance.
UAE & Middle East: Pets need import permits, microchips, rabies vaccinations, and sometimes blood tests. Quarantine is short or not required if all paperwork is correct.
Thailand & Malaysia: Pets need health certificates, rabies shots, and microchips. Quarantine is often required unless pre-approved.
4. Quarantine Rules
Not all countries enforce quarantine, but some do. For example:
Australia: Up to 30 days.
New Zealand: Minimum of 10 days.
Singapore: 10–30 days depending on origin country.
Japan: Pets can face long waits unless pre-cleared.
Countries with strong biosecurity laws are the strictest, while many EU destinations have no quarantine if documents are correct.
5. Flying with Pets
When travelling by air:
Cabin Travel: Small pets may fly in-cabin if under the airline’s weight/size limit.
Cargo Hold: Larger animals travel in an IATA-approved carrier in the cargo hold.
Direct Flights: Always choose direct routes to reduce stress.
Heat Restrictions: Some airlines restrict pet travel during extreme temperatures.
Specialist pet relocation companies can handle the logistics, paperwork, and safe transport of your pet.
6. Costs of Moving Pets Abroad
Costs vary widely depending on the country:
EU moves: €200–€800 (vaccinations, paperwork, airline fees)
US: $500–$1,500+ depending on airline and vet fees
Australia/New Zealand: £3,000–£5,000 (including quarantine, permits, and flights)
Factor this into your property buying budget — especially if moving multiple animals.
7. Tips for Moving Abroad with Pets
✔️ Start planning at least 6 months before your move.
✔️ Use an IATA-approved travel crate and let your pet get used to it.
✔️ Double-check vaccination and microchip requirements for your destination.
✔️ Book a direct flight whenever possible.
✔️ Consider using a pet relocation company for long-distance moves.
✔️ Budget for quarantine and vet fees in advance.
8. Checklist Before You Go
[ ] Microchip
[ ] Rabies vaccination (and booster if needed)
[ ] Tapeworm treatment (if required)
[ ] Health certificate from your vet (within 10 days of travel)
[ ] Import permit (if required)
[ ] Travel crate and airline booking
[ ] Insurance for travel and new country
Final Thoughts
Moving abroad with pets is absolutely possible — but it requires careful preparation. From vaccinations to airline rules, every detail matters. The good news? Once the paperwork is done, your furry friend can enjoy your new life overseas with you.
At International Property Alerts, we help buyers plan their moves abroad — not just with property, but with everything that makes a new country feel like home, pets included.
📧 elly@internationalpropertyalerts.com
🌐 www.internationalpropertyalerts.com
📱 WhatsApp: +44 7796 174253
About International Property Alerts
International Property Alerts is a premier global platform connecting real estate investors with handpicked opportunities in emerging and lifestyle-driven markets. Through curated listings, expert guidance, and market insights, we help buyers make confident property decisions worldwide.
Media Contact:
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Email: office@internationalpropertyalerts.com
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