pet travel northern ireland

Q&As for Pet Travel from 1 January 2021

Animal Health, Welfare and Trade
Identification, registration and movement

The EU Pet Travel regulation (Regulation (EU) 576/2013 details the documentary, health and compliance check requirements for the travel of pet dogs (including assistance dogs), cats and ferrets between and into EU Member States (MS) including Northern Ireland (NI) to avoid the quarantining of animals.

Last updated on 03 October 2022

Under the Northern Ireland Protocol, from 1 January 2021, the EU Pet Travel Regulation continues to apply to travel into and between Northern Ireland, EU Member States and third countries. In other words, Northern Ireland remains part of the EU Pet Travel Scheme.

The EU Pet Travel regulation (Regulation (EU) 576/2013) details the documentary, health and compliance check requirements for the travel of pet dogs (including assistance dogs), cats and ferrets between and into EU Member States (MS) including Northern Ireland to avoid the quarantining of animals.

View EU Regulation 576/2013

From 1 January 2021, Great Britain became a ‘Part II Listed’ country, for the purposes of pet travel and is therefore no longer a member of the EU Pet Travel Scheme.

This change in Great Britain country status means there are additional documentary requirements, health preparations and compliance checks for travelling with a pet from Great Britain or returning to Northern Ireland from Great Britain. This includes an EU pet passport for Northern Ireland travellers or an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) for Great Britain travellers, as well as a rabies vaccination.

On 15 September 2021, DAERA Minister Edwin Poots MLA announced that checks on all pet dogs, cats and ferrets travelling from GB to NI would be suspended indefinitely while negotiations between the UK government and EU continue.

Please click here for more details.

This follows the UK Government announcement on 6 September 2021 that the grace period relating to routine checks on pet travel within the UK will be extended beyond 1 October 2021. There will be no routine checks until further notice.

Stakeholders and the public will be kept informed of any developments via the DAERA website

Travelling with pets

Officials reserve the right to undertake checks in the interim should there be a suspicion of illegal activity or welfare concerns.

Veterinarians

Briefing notes were issued to Northern Ireland’s authorised Private Veterinary Practitioners (PVP) on 15 and 18 December, covering the most up to date information, advice and guidance. Only Private Veterinary Practitioners authorised by the Department can issue EU pet passports and pet export health certificates.

Assistance Dogs

All travellers with pets (cats, dogs and ferrets) including those travelling with Recognised Assistance Dogs are subject to the requirements of Regulation (EU) 576/2013 and must follow the same rules if they wish to travel under the EU Pet Travel Scheme.

It is recommended that you contact the competent authority of the country of destination before travelling in case there are any additional requirements that need to be met.

The following Q&A provides clarification for pet travel between Great Britain and Northern Ireland from 1 January 2021.

For the purposes of pet travel, Great Britain includes England, Scotland, Wales, the Channel Islands and Isle of Man.

The additional requirements will impact significantly on those travelling with pets within the United Kingdom, particularly on travellers with assistance pets and guide dog trainers - what is being done to reduce the impact and remove these additional requirements?

The Minister is aware of the impact of these additional requirements and has written to the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, George Eustice MP and to the European Commission, highlighting the specific issues and officials continue to engage with counterparts in Defra to explore mitigations.
The Minister has requested that urgent consideration be given to the introduction of a ‘Common Travel Area’ for pets travelling between Great Britain, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland and a joint UK/NI/ROI working group has been established to urgently consider where flexibilities can be achieved.
This matter has also now been escalated by the UK Government to the European Commission, seeking an urgent resolution. The Commission has responded and discussions are ongoing to find pragmatic solutions to the issues.

If I am travelling from Northern Ireland to Great Britain with my pet but I am not returning to Northern Ireland with my pet, what are the requirements?

If travelling from Northern Ireland to Great Britain and not returning to Northern Ireland with your pet, there are no documentary or health preparations. However there is a legal requirement that dogs are microchipped at 8 weeks old.
It is recommended that you check with your transport company before travelling as they may need a statement from a vet confirming your pet is fit to travel.

If I am travelling from Great Britain to Northern Ireland with my pet, what are the requirements?

To travel from Great Britain to Northern Ireland your pet needs:-

a microchip,
a rabies vaccination administered by an authorised vet. The animal must be microchipped beforehand and be at least 12 weeks old at the date the vaccine is administered,
to wait before travelling until the appropriate immunity has developed, as stated by the datasheet of the vaccination given, which must be at least 21 days after the primary vaccination is given. If the datasheet of the vaccination used says that immunity is not present until day 30 after vaccination, then you must wait 30 days before travel and your vet should record the same in the passport / animal health certificate. (This wait does not apply to an annual or 3 yearly booster vaccination, provided the booster is administered before the original vaccination expires.)
a valid EU pet passport, or EU animal health certificate confirming microchip and vaccinations (valid for 10 days from issue for entry to an EU Member State (including NI) and valid for 4 months onward travel within the EU),
tapeworm treatment (dogs only) administered between 1 and 5 days before entering NI,
entry to NI must be through a Travellers Point of Entry
it is recommended that you check with your transport company before travelling as they may need a statement from a vet confirming your pet is fit to travel.

If I am travelling to Great Britain and planning to return to Northern Ireland, what documentation and health preparations do I need to make?

Pet owners returning to Northern Ireland from Great Britain will need to make the same preparations as set out in answer to the previous question.

If I am travelling from Northern Ireland to Great Britain with my pet, what are the requirements?

Whilst the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has confirmed there will be no checks or changes to the requirements for pets travelling from Northern Ireland to Great Britain, any person travelling from Northern Ireland to Great Britain with a pet and then returning to Northern Ireland, will be required to adhere to the EU requirements for travelling into the EU/Northern Ireland from a Part II listed country. However, Northern Ireland travellers will be able to obtain a valid EU pet passport in Northern Ireland to use as an alternative to an Animal Health Certificate.

If I am travelling from Northern Ireland to the EU including the Republic of Ireland, what are the requirements?

Current pet travel within the EU, including Republic of Ireland, requires a pet passport and rabies vaccination. There is no change to these requirements.

Will my current EU pet passport, issued in Northern Ireland, prior to 31 December 2020, still be valid for return travel into Northern Ireland from Great Britain, or do I apply for a new one?

From 1 January 2021 UK pet passports issued in both Northern Ireland and Great Britain up to 31 December 2020, are no longer valid for travel to the EU (including Northern Ireland). Interim measures have been put in place. If you are intending to travel you should contact your vet who will arrange to update your pet passport appropriately to allow travel. A new style UK (NI) branded EU Pet Passport will be distributed to every authorised Private Veterinary Practitioner in due course. A list of veterinary practice contacts can be accessed at the following link:-

List of veterinary practices

Will my pet be subject to checks if I am returning to Northern Ireland from Great Britain?

EU regulations require checks in respect of pet movements for pets entering the EU (including Northern Ireland) from third counties.

However the UK government have announced that there will be no routine on pet travel within the UK until further notice. Further updates can be found on the following links

Travelling with Pets | daera-ni.gov.uk
Bringing your pet dog, cat or ferret to Great Britain | gov.uk

Officials will reserve the right to undertake checks should there be a suspicion of illegal activity or welfare concerns.

If there are no checks why do I require the documentation?

The European Union (EU) Pet Travel Regulation (Regulation (EU) 576/2013), which details the documentary, health and compliance check requirements for the travel of pets between or into EU Member States, continues to apply in Northern Ireland following the end of the transition phase.

Therefore there are now additional requirements for pet travel from Great Britain to Northern Ireland, including the need for appropriate documentation and rabies vaccination, as a direct result of Great Britain now being listed as a Part II country.

These continue to be legal requirements and are not affected by the recent decision to delay the introduction of routine compliance checks.

Will my documentation be checked if I adhere to the requirements and obtain documentation and adhere to the health requirements?

There will be no routine checks carried out until 1 October 2021. However officials reserve the right to undertake checks in the interim should there be a suspicion of illegal activity or welfare concerns.

If I have no documentation will I be subject to checks?

Will i be checked by the ferry companies or defra before leaving great britain to travel to northern ireland.

Defra have confirmed that they will not be carrying out checks in respect of travel from Great Britain to Northern Ireland. However you may wish to contact your transport company to confirm any additional requirements that they may have.

If you require more information or have any issues you can email Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) at [email protected] or telephone: 0370 241 1710 or at the Defra website here .

Where can I get a pet passport and how much will it cost?

You can obtain a pet passport directly from one of the authorised Private Veterinary Practitioners participating in the pet travel scheme, (see link below for details). The price of consultation and advice, rabies testing, any necessary vaccinations and issuing documents, is set by each individual vet. Please speak to your vet about the cost if preparing to travel with your pet.

Will my pet require a rabies vaccination for travelling to Northern Ireland from Great Britain?

Yes, a rabies vaccination will be required and you need to make sure your pet is microchipped first, or the vaccination will not count. The pet must be at least 12 weeks old before vaccination. You must wait until the appropriate immunity has developed, as stated by the datasheet of the rabies vaccination given, which must be at least 21 days after the primary vaccination is given. If the datasheet of the vaccination used says that immunity is not present until day 30 after vaccination, then you must wait 30 days before travel and your vet should record the same in the passport / animal health certificate. (This wait does not apply to an annual or 3 yearly booster vaccination, provided the booster is administered before the original vaccination expires.)

I am concerned that the rabies vaccination will have a detrimental effect on the health of my pet?

There is already a requirement for such a vaccination for pets intending to travel to the EU, including the Republic of Ireland, from Northern Ireland. All vaccinations recommended for use in NI/EU have undergone rigorous testing to assess safety and ensure effectiveness. The Veterinary Medicines Directorate, an Executive Agency within DEFRA, regulate the safety and quality of veterinary medicines in the UK and you may wish to seek further advice from them regarding any vaccination concerns. The Veterinary Medicines Directorate can be contacted here .

How do I know if my pet’s rabies vaccination is up-to-date?

Your vet will be able to advise you when a rabies vaccination is due. They will also be able to advise whether other health and documentary checks are required for travel. We recommend that you contact your local vet before planning any travel with your pet.

How long does my pet’s rabies vaccination remain valid for?

The lifespan of the rabies vaccination depends on the brand of vaccination used and your vet will be able to advise you when rabies boosters will be required. In order for an EU pet passport to remain valid, rabies vaccinations and any future boosters must be administered by an authorised veterinarian within the EU. Details of the vaccination must be entered in the pet passport.

Does the rabies vaccination need to be given every time you intend to travel?

No. Provided the rabies vaccination is kept up to date, you should only need to get your pet vaccinated for the first trip.

How much will obtaining a pet passport and health preparations cost?

The price of consultation and advice, rabies testing, vaccinations and issuing documents (including a pet passport) is set by each individual vet.

Is an EU pet passport transferable between owners?

Yes. An EU pet passport is transferable and remains valid if you comply with the requirements of the EU Pet Travel regulations. However, within the passport there is only space for the details of 2 owners. Once both are used you will need to get a new passport to travel with the pet.

Will my pet require Tapeworm / Echinococcosis Multilocularis (EM) treatment every time I return to Northern Ireland from Great Britain?

Yes. EU regulations require that dogs comply with preventative health measures, and that tapeworm / EM treatment is administered within 24 to 120 hours (1 to 5 Days) of entry to the EU (including Northern Ireland). This treatment can be administered by a veterinarian in Northern Ireland or Great Britain. Depending on the duration of your trip, you may be able to have the treatment administered in Northern Ireland before you leave i.e. if you are returning to Northern Ireland within 5 days.

What countries require Tapeworm / Echinococcosis Multilocularis treatment to enter with a dog?

Tapeworm treatment is required for entry to Finland, Norway, Malta, Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Please note you do not require tapeworm treatment if travelling to or from Northern Ireland to any of the countries listed above.

Can any vet sign the part about the Tapeworm treatment regardless if they are an authorised Private Veterinary Practitioner or not?

Yes. Any vet can administer tapeworm treatment as long as it is recorded and stamped in the passport.

Can an authorised Private Veterinary Practitioner certify and prepare their own pet for travel?

The RCVS Principles of Certification state that "Veterinarians should not issue a certificate which might raise questions of a possible conflict of interest e.g. in relation to their own animals". On the basis of this, it is advised that treatment/certification to meet PETS requirements should be carried out by a qualified veterinarian who is not the owner of the pet.

Will I need to enter Northern Ireland through a Travellers Point of Entry if travelling from Great Britain?

Yes. You will need to enter the EU, including Northern Ireland, via a Travellers Point of Entry when you are travelling from a third country such as Great Britain in order to facilitate compliance checks.

Where will the Travellers Points of Entry be located in Northern Ireland?

Travellers Points of Entry will be located at the following locations: Belfast Port, Larne Port, Belfast International Airport, Belfast City Airport and City of Derry Airport.

Is there any ‘grace period’ regarding pet travel from Great Britain to Northern Ireland for these changes being introduced, in relation to the implementation of the Northern Ireland Protocol?

Yes the UK Government has confirmed that the grace period relating to routine checks on pet travel within the UK will be extended until further notice.

However, officials will reserve the right to undertake checks in the interim should there be a suspicion of illegal activity or welfare concerns.

Are there any other requirements for travelling with a pet other than those detailed above?

The requirement for the non-commercial movement of pets under the Pet Travel Scheme are set out in the paragraphs above, however it is recommended that you contact the competent authority of the country of destination before travelling in case there are any additional requirements that need to be met.

Commercial movement of pets

What are the requirements for the commercial movement of pets between great britain and northern ireland.

There is no change to the requirements for the commercial movement of pets from Northern Ireland to Great Britain, other than that they must be microchipped at 8 weeks old.

The EU Pet Travel Scheme covers the movements of pets with their owners. For commercial movements or travel with more than 5 pets, in addition to meeting the preparations needed for pet travel, the requirements for commercial trade laid down by the Animal Health Law, in force from 21 April 2021, must be met.

Details can be found here .

Further information on commercial movements to the EU can also be found at the following links:

https://ec.europa.eu/food/animals/movement-pets/eu-legislation/entry-union_en
ttps://ec.europa.eu/food/animals/movement-pets/eu-legislation/movements-within-union_en

Before moving dogs for commercial purposes from Great Britain to Northern Ireland, you need to obtain an Export Health Certificate. The guidance in the link below will help you obtain an Export Health Certificate, pre notify in advance of the arrival of the consignment into Northern Ireland and advise on what you need to do on arrival at a Point of Entry.

Guidance on bringing commercial transports of dogs to NI from GB

Does the indefinite postponement for pet checks apply to the commercial movement of pets?

No. The grace period does not apply to the commercial movement of pets.

What if I am travelling to Northern Ireland with more than 5 pets to attend a show, competition or training for an event?

Pet owners travelling to an event in Northern Ireland from any country, including Great Britain, should complete the Declaration using the link below and make the completed Declaration available to a DAERA Portal Inspector upon arrival in Northern Ireland.

This Declaration should also be completed by those returning to Northern Ireland from an event.

Pets Declaration for Events in NI

Where can I get further information regarding pet travel?

Information regarding travelling with pets will continue to be updated on the DAERA website as information becomes available and can be found here .

If you cannot find an answer for your query please contact the following Tel-No is 0300 200 7840 or email [email protected] .

26 February 2024 - Q&As on changes to livestock identification tag codes
Brexit transition Q&As - Movement of animals
Cattle birth and death notifications (MC1)
Cattle Statuses - best practice advice
Codes for use in a herd register
DAERA encourages farmers to use APHIS Online to notify movements of cattle
Ear tag information
EU exit and moving equines
Horse Passports
Identification, registration and movement of birds
Identification, registration and movement of cattle
Identification, registration and movement of horses
Identification, registration and movement of pigs
Identification, registration and movement of sheep and goats
Introduction to Identification, Registration and Movement of Animals
NIFAIS Go Live Preparations
NIFAIS Markets
NIFAIS Meat Plant Information
NIFAIS Online (NOL)
NIFAIS PVP Information
Northern Ireland Poultry Health Assurance Scheme (NIPHAS)
Questions and Answers on Traceability
Travelling with Pets

Travelling to Northern Ireland with a Dog in 2024

Northern Ireland is a fabulous destination to visit with your dog, whether you’re visiting family or friends or touring the beautiful countryside.

However, due to being situated across the Irish Sea and being treated differently since the end of the Brexit transition, it’s potentially trickier to visit than the other countries of the United Kingdom .

Read on for answers to all the questions you may have about the latest logistics of taking a dog to Northern Ireland, from whether you need an animal health certificate to the dog-friendly ferries available.

Can I Take My Dog to Northern Ireland from Great Britain?

From 1st January 2021, once the Brexit transition ended, the rules to travel with your dog from England, Scotland or Wales to Northern Ireland changed. Previously, there was no need for a pet passport or any other special preparations, but this is technically no longer the case.

In 2021, Great Britain became a “Part 2 listed third country” for the purposes of pet transport to the European Union. This includes England, Scotland and Wales, along with the Channel Islands and Isle of Man.

However, there was no change in the status of Northern Ireland, which is effectively classified as still part of the European Union for the purposes of pet transport.

Current Requirements to take a Dog to Northern Ireland

This means that dogs travelling from Great Britain to Northern Ireland are meant to require preparation similar to visiting any other country in the EU.

Your dog technically requires a microchip, a valid rabies vaccine (at least 21 days before travel), worming treatment (done by a vet, between 24 hours and 5 days of travel) and an animal health certificate (within 10 days of travel).

Pet passports issued in EU countries can be used, in place of the animal health certificate. Pet passports issued in Great Britain cannot be used to travel to Northern Ireland, nor can old-style Northern Ireland pet passports, only the new-style Northern Ireland pet passports introduced in 2021.

Additionally, when travelling to Northern Ireland you’ll need to use a “travellers’ point of entry”. This includes Belfast Port, Larne Port, Belfast International Airport, Belfast City Airport and City of Derry Airport.

For more information see the DAERA website . However, read on…

But Is This Being Enforced?

The good news though, is that these new requirement are not being enforced .

After an extended period in early 2021, when there was a grace period before the checks started being enforced, in September 2021 it was announced that checks on all pet dogs, cats and ferrets travelling from Great Britain to Northern Ireland would be suspended indefinitely .

As of December 2023, this is still the case. It has been announced this will continue until the Windsor Framework pet travel provisions are implemented (see below) – which currently seems likely in 2024.

This means that for now, you no longer technically need to visit the vet to pay for an expensive animal health certificate, or have a worming treatment done by a vet. There is also no enforcement of rabies vaccines for pets crossing to Northern Ireland.

Future Requirements to Travel to Northern Ireland

During February 2023, it was announced that the Windsor Framework had been agreed to by the UK Prime Minister and the European Commission President, replacing the old Northern Ireland Protocol.

The requirements for pets travelling from GB to Northern Ireland under this framework will be simplified, assuming that they are not travelling onwards to Ireland or other EU countries. Pets will no longer need a rabies vaccination or an expensive pet health certificate from their vet.

Instead, it is stated that pet owners within Great Britain with microchipped pets can either sign up for a lifetime travel document for their pet , available easily online, or there will be a process built into the booking steps for ferries and flights. Presumably, you will also need to declare that you pet will not be travelling onwards to the Republic of Ireland or any other EU country.

The implementation of this protocol will be phased in, will changes to pet travel initially expected by the end of 2023. However, there is no update to the situation, so this will more likely happen in 2024 .

Unfortunately, it does not seem likely that the UK will become a Part 1 listed country, similar to Switzerland, with its own pet passport and easier travel to all EU countries, not just Northern Ireland.

Returning to Great Britain with Your Dog

While there are numerous changes to travelling from Great Britain to Northern Ireland with a dog (not that they are currently being enforced), there are no changes travelling in the opposite direction.

Technically dogs travelling to Great Britain need to be microchipped and vaccinated against rabies, but there is no requirement for a pet passport or health certificate (that would prove this) for travel from Northern Ireland to Great Britain.

Dogs travelling from Northern Ireland to Great Britain are also not required to have a worming treatment, nor are they required to travel on an approved route. For more information, see the UK government website .

Dog-Friendly Ferries from Great Britain to Northern Ireland

The best way to travel from Great Britain to Northern Ireland with your dog is on a dog-friendly ferry. As it’s not possible to fly with your dog in the cabin to Northern Ireland, with only a handful of UK airlines allowing pets to fly as checked baggage or more often cargo , I recommend taking a ferry rather than flying.

There are currently three ferries to choose from between Great Britain and Northern Ireland, operated by Stena Line and P&O Irish Seas. (Irish Ferries doesn’t operated any ferry routes to Northern Ireland.) These are the three routes, ranked in order of dog-friendliness…

Note: This post contains affiliate links, which means I may receive commission if you make a purchase using the links.

Stena Line Ferry from Cairnryan to Belfast

After taking this ferry with my dog, I selected the Stena Line Ferry from Cairnryan to Belfast as the most dog-friendly ferry to Ireland (whether Northern Ireland or the Republic of Ireland).

As well as being a quick crossing (2 1/4 hours), with up to six services daily, small pets in a pet traveller case are allowed to travel on the passenger deck by your side, in a Pet Lounge on Deck 7 that opened in May 2023.

Note that the pet traveller case should be a maximum size of 91cm x 56cm and 62cm high, and must have a secure door, zip or lock mechanism, with your pet totally enclosed. Regular bags are not allowed. Plus naturally pets must remain in the carrier at all times, except dogs are allowed in the dedicated outdoor deck area.

In November 2022, it was announced that Stena Line would no longer permit small pets to travel in a carrier onboard this route, due to health, safety and hygiene reasons, but this decision was reversed, with just the new requirement to travel in the dedicated Pet Lounge, for a fee. (Thanks to everyone who helped signed the petition!)

In early 2023, pet-friendly cabins were announced on the majority of other ferries crossing the Irish Sea, but this won’t apply on this short crossing.

Larger pets can either be checked into a kennel or left in your car, both free of charge. All pets must be pre-booked, at the “Stena Plus & Onboard Extras” step of the booking process. Foot passenger are also allowed to transport pets.

Stena Line Ferry from Liverpool to Belfast

In early 2023, Stena Line announced that there would now be pet-friendly cabins available on a number of additional routes, including the Stena Line Ferry from Liverpool to Belfast. So, I’ve bumped up this ferry in terms of pet-friendliness out of the ferries between Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

Up to two pets are permitted in each vinyl-floored pet-friendly cabin, with water bottles and pee pads provided. Just bring your own bowls and beds. Make sure you book these cabins well in advance, with bookings available both online and through the call centre.

When walking to your pet-friendly cabin, carry your pet in a carrier or walk them on a leash, with muzzles also recommended. There’s also a dedicated outdoor area on the ferries on this route, where your pup can get some fresh air and have a toilet break.

The alternative options for transporting your pet are in your own car (if you are travelling with one), at no cost, or in a kennel in the “Dog Lodge” on the promenade deck, for an additional £15.

Pets travelling in the Stena Line Dog Lodge can be accessed and exercised during your crossing. Even free dog food is available. Just note that the kennel size may be a little too small for larger dogs, at 100 x 82.5 x 75cm.

No matter which option you choose for transporting your pet, you need to specify you’ll be travelling with pets at the “Stena Plus & Onboard Extras” step in the booking process, and select the relevant option. The crossing is 8 hours, with both a day-time and overnight option available.

P&O Ferry from Cairnryan to Larne

The final pet-friendly ferry crossing from Great Britain to Northern Ireland is travelling on the P&O Ferry from Cairnryan to Larne.

Out of all the crossings, this is the shortest, a quick 2hr trip. However, pets are only allowed inside vehicles (at no additional charge), with no kennels on offer. For this reason, foot passengers are not allowed to transport pets on this ferry.

As there are up to 7 daily crossings, both during the day and night, I would recommend selecting a cooler time of day for a crossing with your dog during summer. Add up to four pets to your booking when selecting the number of passengers.

Previously, it was possible to ask a staff member to visit your pet during the crossing, if you were concerned. However, I can no longer see that this option is available – double check if it’s important to you.

Click here for more information

Taking Your Dog from the Republic of Ireland to Northern Ireland

Prior to Brexit, it was easy to take your dog in a car across the border from the Republic of Ireland to Northern Ireland, and vice versa, with generally no checks performed.

This continues to be the case. The DAERA website clearly states that there is no change to the requirements for pets travelling in between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, due to Northern Ireland still being part of the European Union for pet travel.

You are technically required to have a pet passport for your dog, including microchip and valid rabies vaccination, as for crossing any country border within the EU. However, DAERA state that a “risk-based approach is taken with regards to the level of compliance checks on pets”, with checks rarely occurring.

There is no need to worm your dog travelling between Northern Ireland and Ireland, in either direction, so proof of this is not required.

Travelling Directly to Northern Ireland with a Dog

Prior to the end of the Brexit transition, if you were planning on travelling directly to Northern Ireland from outside of the UK and the Republic of Ireland with a dog, you needed to apply for Import Authorisation for your dog.

An Import Authorisation was required to be obtained at least 10 days in advance. You were also required to engage and pay for the services of an approved quarantine establishment to check your pet’s paperwork on arrival.

This was because this was not an approved route under the Pet Travel Scheme. The approved routes were for pets to firstly enter Great Britain or enter the Republic of Ireland , then travel onwards to Northern Ireland.

However, it is not clear if this requirement still applies following the Brexit transition. The DAERA website simply states that if you are transporting pets directly to Northern Ireland via air, you should email [email protected] .

About the Author

Shandos Cleaver is the founder of Travelnuity: Dog-Friendly Travel. She has travelled extensively with her Miniature Dachshund, Schnitzel, including to 33 countries across Europe, every state and territory of Australia except Tasmania, and 10 of the United States. She’s passionate about providing inspiration and information to others wanting to travel with their dogs, whether close to home or internationally.

Inspired? Pin this to your Pinterest board!

61 thoughts on “Travelling to Northern Ireland with a Dog in 2024”

Hi, I am travelling in August with my puppy on the Cairnryan to Belfast route. I am very confused as there is no clear information online regarding travel of pets between England/Scotland and Northern Ireland. I understand there is no requirement for a passport, although this may change in January 2021 due to ‘Brexit’. What i do not understand is if my puppy requires additional vaccinations. She is up to date on her vaccines but does not have Rabbies, she also got a flee and worming treatment a few months ago but does she need this done again? My Vet does not seem to understand that Northern Ireland is part of Britian and i do not want to give my pet anymore injections than is required. Please help! Thanks in advance!

Hi Jenny, There is no requirement for additional vaccinations or flea or worming treatments to take your dog to Northern Ireland. Here is the Northern Ireland government page about travelling with pets: https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/travelling-pets . While it doesn’t state outright on the page nothing is required, if anything was required it would be covered here. When I travelled on the Cairnryan to Belfast route, I didn’t require anything. If you are in doubt, I recommend ringing up Stenaline to double check. Enjoy your trip to Northern Ireland! Shandos

You will be OK Jenny, the rules will not be enforced for domestic pets until after October.

Hello, I have a puppy with full vaccinations and an older dog with none since being a pup however neither have pet passports and we are looking to travel in November 2020 – What is the liklihood that we would be turned away at the port of dublin due to not having the right documentation as we would be looking to do this crossing as cheaper? Just worried we would make a

I recommend getting a pet passport for both your dogs. There’s plenty of time to do so. I think many years ago pet passports weren’t often checked, but have been increasingly checked in recent years, especially with the end of the Brexit transition coming up at the end of the year.

I travel back and forward between Scotland and Northern Ireland as I have family and grandchildren in NI. I part own a house in Scotland and part own a house in Northern Ireland. What requirements do I need ensure my dogs are not put into quarantine. I travel at least three times a year. I have 3 dogs born in Scotland and have never required any passport or rabies vaccinations as Scotland and NI have no rabies. What do I require for them to travel back and forward several times a year. I also have a 6 month old pup who has her own Latvian passport. What do I require for her to travel back and forward. Does this passport cover her for 3 years to travel to NI. Does she have to get any checks when returning from the NI to Scotland. Do I have to get Rabies vaccinations every 3 years for every one of my dogs. Do I have to get vet checks prior to my returning from the NI. Is there a difference in the rules whether I stay in NI for 3 / 4 weeks or 4/5 months. Please clarify. Can you please contact me via my email.

Hi Marigold – sorry about the delay replying, I’ve had a short vacation over Christmas.

Unfortunately, the situation is changing from 1st January. For your dogs travelling to Northern Ireland from Scotland, they will now required a microchip, rabies vaccination (at least 21 days in advance), worming treatment (between 1 to 5 days before travelling) and health certificate (within 10 days of travel). And yes your dogs will require a rabies booster every 3 years.

To travel back to Scotland, none of this is required, if you stay for under 4 months. The pet health certificate issued to travel to NI can be used to return to Scotland, but is only valid for 4 months. If you stay longer, you need to visit a vet to get a GB pet health certificate, unless you pet has an EU pet passport.

For the dog with the Latvian passport, you can use this in place of the pet health certificate. This passport will remain valid while the rabies vaccine is valid or longer if her rabies boosters are done in the EU (presumably including Northern Ireland). There may also be the option of getting your other dogs a Northern Ireland issued EU pet passport, which would replace the health certificate, but considering you also need the worming treatment each visit to go to NI you still need to visit the vet.

The UK government does note: “The UK government recognises that pet owners and assistance dog users will need time to adjust to these changes. It’s working with the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) on an enforcement approach that takes these challenges into account.”

For more information and any further clarifications, see: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/pet-travel-to-europe-from-1-january-2021 and https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/travelling-pets .

Enforcement of the rules for domestic pets has been put back to October 2021. Perhaps there will be some compromise works out by then.

This information is dated , best to follow .gov .uk travelling with my pet, don’t leave it to chance..x

Aileen – I have recently updated this post with the latest government news.

From DAERA website Pet Checks Routine checks on the non-commercial movement of pets from GB to NI will be delayed until at least 1 October 2021

I live in Southern Ireland and have reserved a pedigree puppy in Northern Ireland which will be ready for collection at the beginning of Feb. I am confused reading the varios information and wonder if you can kindly let me know if there is anything I need to be aware of or to ensure is in place/done before bringing the puppy to southern ireland? Many Thanks

Normally, your dog would need a microchip and rabies vaccine at least 21 days before movement, but there are exceptions in place for puppies, that are too young for the rabies vaccine. These are the EU rules: https://ec.europa.eu/food/animals/pet-movement/eu-legislation/young-animals_en . However, I don’t think Ireland allows the exception, looking at this. I’m not fully across this, as I’m more familiar with the rules for older dogs being taken on vacation. Also, I’m not sure whether the transport is commercial or non-commercial, I think it depends on whether you go and pick up your puppy.

Hi Shandos,

I’m travelling from Northern Ireland to Liverpool next month. I’m confused if there is any requirement for my dog travelling to the UK from Northern Ireland?

It sure is a lot more confusing today! If you’re only travelling to GB and not returning to NI, there are no passport or vaccine requirements, other than the standard requirement for dogs to microchipped. This is covered half-way down this page: https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/travelling-pets . However, the extra steps apply if you return to NI.

Thanks you so much for your reply. That’t really helpful 🙂

Hi Shandos I am moving to the Republic of Ireland later this year. I would like to travel from Scotland via ferry with my dog to Northern Ireland and then by car to the Republic of Ireland. Is this feasible considering Brexit? the Irish border? She has a pet passport. Appreciate your advice.

Nan – I haven’t been keeping up to date with changes for the movement of people (as I’m currently in Australia), but for pets, the new key border crossing is when you cross to Northern Ireland. As well as requiring a microchip and valid rabies vaccine at least 21 days before entry, your dog will also require a worming treatment at a vet and health certificate. The pet passports issued before 2021 are no longer valid for crossing the border. I recommend visiting a vet well before your travel.

Once in Northern Ireland, I expect you will not need to show anything when driving across into the Republic of Ireland (as occurred when I visited previously), but it is expected that your dog is vaccinated for rabies and you have a health certificate or passport.

Enjoy your trip!

I live in Northern Ireland, I have a Minature Schnauzer which is fully vaccinated and micro chipped, I and travelling to Scotland for a wedding in July 2021, do I need a pet passport to take her and bring her back. If I do how do I go about it and what is the cost.

You don’t need anything extra to take your dog to Scotland, but you’ll need extra steps to return to Northern Ireland with your dog. Your dog will require a worming treatment done by a vet between 24 hours and 5 days of returning to Northern Ireland. This should also be able to be done in Northern Ireland before leaving, if your trip is short. You’ll also need either an animal health certificate or one of the new style NI pet passports. I recommend speaking to your pet before your trip. Unfortunately, I don’t know the current cost.

From Daera website Pet Checks Routine checks on the non-commercial movement of pets from GB to NI will be delayed until at least 1 October 2021

Enjoy the wedding

I’m moving to NI from England in June. I have 3 small dogs and a house cat. I contacted DEFRA and they informed me checks won’t be enforced until july 1st. 2 of my dogs have heart conditions and have previously had adverse reactions to vaccines. I was advised that there were no exceptions in the legislation but I will unlikely be checked. I am a single parent of two young children, if they refuse us entry or insist on quarantine we will end up homeless or without our beloved animals and in debt from quarantine costs. I’m terrified. Do you have any advice?

Based on DEFRA’s advice, I’d probably take advantage of the period prior to 1st July to move. I had heard they weren’t doing checks early in the year, but this is even later than previously mentioned, probably due to Covid. As an emergency backup, find out the details of a kennel or vet near your departure point, and arrive extra early, in case something does come up.

The checks are on the NI side not GB side. They’ve now delayed the checks till 1st October. Hopefully they will be scrapped all together.

The new entry rules to NI from the UK regarding pet passports are not currently being enforced by NI. This is clearly stated on the NI gov website and in recent news media. You do need a pet passport however to cross into the Republic. So your above advice about requiring rabies and a health certificate etc is not correct yet. A good opportunity to get your pup into NI to get an NI issued EU pet passport!

That’s great to read, earlier in the year they were planning to enforce a lot earlier.

Hi We are travelling from cainryan to Belfast for 2 weeks in august with our dog. Can anyone confirm if we need to get the animal health certificate and worming to get into Northern Ireland? I can see that checks are delayed until 2021 but didn’t want to get caught out Thanks

I recommend doing it still, just for your peace of mind, although the reports are that it isn’t being enforced yet. But it might start being enforced!

Help!!! I am so confused. I am moving to Belfast after FINALLY getting my US passport renewed (nightmare!!! *covid*)

Do I still need to get my dog and cat pet passports for entry if traveling after Oct 1 of this year?

Thank you Andrea

If you’re coming from the US, you’ll need to get UK pet health certificates completed and certified by USDA APHIS. The EU and other pet passports are only relevant once living in the jurisdiction.

Planning to travel to NI in July 2022. Are the checks on pets entering NI still suspended, have they been scrapped ? If reinstated are they likely to be enforceable immediately ?

The checks are still suspended. It hasn’t been announced that they are being scrapped, but I believe the government is hoping GB will move to the same category as Switzerland, where they won’t bd required. I recommend checking this page for the latest: https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/travelling-pets

Thank you – very helpful

Since the UK left the EU and the transition period ended, according to DAERA, a worming treatment has technically been required to enter NI from GB. However, checks are not currently being made, so this is not being enforced. Hopefully the situation with pet travel to and from GB changes again, back to being more similar when UK was part of the EU.

Hi, I am travelling from Northern Ireland to England next week with a puppy of 10 weeks old. We are travelling overnight from Belfast to Liverpool and after researching the dog lodges on Stenaline, I would not be happy to leave such a young puppy on their own surrounded by other dogs. We would like to leave the pup in the car but unsure if we can visit it at anytime as I have heard that once the boat set sail that you are not allowed in that area. What would you advised as I am concerned for the pup because of them spending first night away from litter and long journey.

That’s a tough situation. It’d be better if you could take the ferry from Belfast to Cairnryan, as small dogs can travel in a carrier bag onboard and it’s a quick trip. However, I understand that ferry to Liverpool is probably better suited for you. I haven’t heard that you can visit dogs in the car after departing, can you call up the customer centre and ask? They might make an exception in certain cases, too. Otherwise, it’s probably best to put the pup in the dog lodge so that you can regular walk him/her.

Hi, I’m travelling from Sri Lanka to Northern Ireland. I want to know if there’s any possibility of taking my dog as excess baggage to the UK, or do they have to travel as manifest cargo? Any help you can give me regarding this would be appreciated.

Unfortunately dogs travelling to the UK need to travel as manifest cargo, not excess baggage. The alternative is to fly into the continent, such as Paris or Amsterdam, then travel via ferry/car/train to Northern Ireland.

Hi, I am currently living in Northern Ireland and my cat is living in Germany. I want to go back to Germany and bring my cat back to NI, is it possible I take the flight from Germany to Dublin with my cat and then take the bus to Belfast? I want my cat to stay with me in the cabin, do you know any airlines allow me to do that? Thanks a lot for you help in advance.

Wang – It should be possible to fly your cat in the cabin to Dublin. Although most airlines don’t allow this, some airlines do, although I’ve heard from other travellers that airline staff say different things at different times – see the comments on my post about travelling to Ireland, https://www.travelnuity.com/taking-a-dog-to-ireland/ . Two possible options are Vueling and Iberia Express. It’s probably not possible to take your cat on the bus, but cats are allowed to sit on your lap in a secure carrier on the train from Dublin to Belfast. Hope this helps!

Hi,I would like to visit my relatives in NI. I have have an assistance dog with ID passbook, and have a record of all his vacations, flea and tick, and worm treatment from berth, which is four and a half years worth. 1. Does he have to have a rabies jab. 2. I presume I can take him with on any crossing.

Rabies vaccines are still not being enforced on dogs travelling from GB to NI, and there are no requirements for the return journey. Assistance dogs should be accepted by any ferry crossing, although I’m not across documentation requirements.

Hi, I am hoping to travel from the US to Ireland with my Dachshund. I got her a France Pet Passport in 2021. Do you know if this will be enough? Of course, she has a Microchip and is up to date with her shots. I am looking to do a road trip through Europe with her.

That should be fine, as long as her latest rabies shot is in the pet passport, not on a separate certificate. Some airlines also require a health certificate from your vet – but just a simple letter, not a complicated form that needs to be certified. Additionally, Ireland also requires an inspection on arrival for dogs flying into the country from outside of the EU – see my separate post on Travelling to the Republic of Ireland (I assume you mean the Republic of Ireland, not Northern Ireland).

I’m hoping to travel by ferry in July with my dog from cairnryan to Belfast. Are checks on dogs still suspended?

The checks are still suspended.

Hi, I am wondering if you have any more updates 6 months on about the need for a AHC travelling from Scotland to Northern Ireland (& on to Ireland) and back again during August 2023? Prices are high for both the rabies vaccination, tapeworm treatment at a vets as well. Any advice would be much appreciated. Thank you. Sue

There has been no change as of yet, with paperwork still not being checked. I expect there will be a change in the future, but there should be advance warning.

Hi, I’m travelling from Holyhead GB to Dublin on StenaLine on route to Northern Ireland (by car) on the 27th of August. Are checks on dogs still suspended?

While checks going into Northern Ireland are suspended, I haven’t heard of checks going to Dublin being suspended. I would make sure you’re ready with an EU pet health certificate and worming complete.

Thank you. I will take the trip from Liverpool to Belfast rather.

Travelling from Cairnryan to Larne in October with dog. Question re worming. He has eu pet passport but I recall a lot of chat about not letting UK vet write in it. Was that just for rabies vax? Should I do the working treatment 120 hours before travel and let UK vet confirm in dog passport?

At the moment, the checks including the worming treatment aren’t being enforced, so it’s up to you whether you do it. I’m pretty certain that non-EU vets can write in the worming treatment section, just not the rabies section.

Hi Shandos how do I keep uptodate with the suspended checks ? I’m possibly travelling in November.

Check out the DAERA website for any updates: https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/travelling-pets

Hi Shandos, Thank you for your informative articles, however my head is spinning trying to work out my unique circumstance and wonder if you are able to help… We will be travelling by ferry from Scotland to Northern Ireland, drive down into Rep Ireland and catch the ferry from the south of Ireland to Spain early November. We are originally from Australia and have been travelling. Our dog initially got a AHC to come to the UK and then one to travel Europe before coming back into UK. Whilst we were in Europe we got the dog a EU Pet passport as it lasts more than 4 months and is cheaper than all the AHC…..Anyway… My question…Am I able to use the EU Pet Passport from Scotland to NI (and do I need a vet health check or a tapeworm?)…drive down into RI ok and exit Ireland for Spain with no other paperwork than my initial EU Pet passport; or will I need another tapeworm treatment. Sorry for the long and complex post but I’m going round in circles here!! Thank you

Rachel – Thanks for reaching out to me. Yes, your EU pet passport will be fine to enter NI, Republic of Ireland and Spain. As long as there is an up-to-date rabies vaccine recorded on it.

With the worming treatment, this is technically required, but is not being checked entering NI. I doubt it would be checked crossing the land border into RoI. (When I crossed the border pre-Brexit, there were no checks, and I believe this is still the case.) Prior to Brexit, there was no need for a worming treatment on this route, and you likely could get away without it.

But if you’re worried, perhaps get it done by the vet. It’s generally cheap (a lot cheaper than the full AHC). Vets outside the EU can enter worming treatments on the page in the EU pet passport (just not enter rabies vaccines) or have the vet write it on their letterhead. I hope this is clearer now!

Thank you so much for your super helpful article. I just wondered if you were aware of any formal confirmation / introductions to the Windsor Framework policy for GB to NI travel please?

I recently checked for updates, and I can’t see any progress yet.

Thank you Shandos for this excellent post. I wish I had found it before travelling to Ireland in 2022. Now have a query for you. This summer we are taking our dog from Cairnryan to Belfast (I know the rules — currently don’t need a pet passport or certificate); then driving from NI to Eire (no checks, all fine); then at the end of the holiday would like to return to the Dublin-Holyhead route. I’ve checked this UK government website ( https://www.gov.uk/bring-pet-to-great-britain/pet-passport ) which says that a UK pet passport dating from before 2021 is sufficient for entering the UK from Ireland. We happen to have one of those so would technically be fine. BUT…. would we get challenged at Dubline port on how come we got our dog INTO Eire in the first place without an Animal Health Certificate or EU Pet Passport? Thank you!

I doubt that you will be questioned over that, as long as your old UK pet passport is fine (with a recent rabies vaccine). I haven’t heard reports from other people who have been the same, but it seems unlikely. After all, it’s also entirely plausible that you may have “lost” the pet health certificate to enter Ireland, once you no longer needed it.

Travelling with your pets

When travelling with your pet dog, cat or ferret, the rules you must follow depend on the country you are going to or coming from.

Contact a vet

To make sure your pet is able to travel you should contact your vet before travelling to get the latest advice.

You can also get the latest information and check the rules for the country you’re travelling to or from at this link:

Travelling with pets

Translation help

Help improve this page - send your feedback.

You will not receive a reply. We will consider your feedback to help improve the site. Don't include any personal or financial information, for example National Insurance, credit card numbers, or phone numbers.

What to do next

Comments or queries about angling can be emailed to [email protected]

If you have a comment or query about benefits, you will need to contact the government department or agency which handles that benefit. Contacts for common benefits are listed below.

Carer's Allowance

Call 0800 587 0912 Email [email protected]

Discretionary support / Short-term benefit advance

Call 0800 587 2750 Email [email protected]

Disability Living Allowance

Call 0800 587 0912 Email [email protected]

Employment and Support Allowance

Call 0800 587 1377

Jobseeker’s Allowance

Contact your local Jobs & Benefits office

Personal Independence Payment

Call 0800 587 0932

If your query is about another benefit, select ‘Other’ from the drop-down menu above.

Comments or queries about the Blue Badge scheme can be emailed to [email protected] or you can also call 0300 200 7818.

For queries or advice about careers, contact the Careers Service .

For queries or advice about Child Maintenance, contact the Child Maintenance Service .

For queries or advice about claiming compensation due to a road problem, contact DFI Roads claim unit .

If you can’t find the information you’re looking for in the Coronavirus (COVID-19) section , then for queries about:

Restrictions or regulations — contact the Department of Health
Travel advice (including self-isolation) — contact the Department of Health
Coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccinations — contact the Department of Health or Public Health Agency

If your query is about another topic, select ‘Other’ from the drop-down menu above.

For queries about your identity check, email [email protected] and for queries about your certificate, email [email protected] .

For queries or advice about criminal record checks, email [email protected]

Application and payment queries can be emailed to [email protected]

For queries or advice about employment rights, contact the Labour Relations Agency .

For queries or advice about birth, death, marriage and civil partnership certificates and research, contact the General Register Office Northern Ireland (GRONI) by email [email protected]

For queries about the High Street Spend Local Scheme, email [email protected] .

For queries about:

Car tax, vehicle registration and SORN contact the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA), Swansea
Driver licensing and tests, MOT and vehicle testing contact the Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA), Northern Ireland

For queries about your identity check, email [email protected] .

For queries or advice about passports, contact HM Passport Office .

For queries or advice about Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs), including parking tickets and bus lane PCNs, email [email protected]

For queries or advice about pensions, contact the Northern Ireland Pension Centre .

If you wish to report a problem with a road or street you can do so online in this section .

If you wish to check on a problem or fault you have already reported, contact DfI Roads .

For queries or advice about historical, social or cultural records relating to Northern Ireland, use the Public Record Office of Northern Ireland (PRONI) enquiry service .

For queries or advice about rates, email [email protected]

For queries or advice about 60+ and Senior Citizen SmartPasses (which can be used to get concessionary travel on public transport), contact Smartpass - Translink .

If you have a question about a government service or policy, you should contact the relevant government organisation directly . We don't have access to information about you.

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We’d like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

New rules for pet travel from 1 January 2021

Pet owners will need to follow new requirements before taking their pet to the European Union or Northern Ireland at the end of the transition period.

Pet owners are being encouraged to check the latest government advice about travelling from Great Britain to Northern Ireland or the European Union with their pets at the end of the transition period.

The government has worked alongside the European Commission to ensure pet travel can continue between Great Britain and the EU and Northern Ireland at the end of the transition period.

From 1 January 2021 onwards, the UK will have Part 2 listed status under the EU Pet Travel Scheme, meaning that people travelling from GB with their pets and assistance dogs will need to follow new requirements in order to travel to the EU and Northern Ireland.

Before taking their dog, cat or ferret to the EU for the first time after 1 January 2021, pet owners must complete the following steps. The only new requirement for travel to the EU is the use of a certificate, rather than a pet passport:

Ensure their dog, cat or ferret is microchipped.
Ensure that their dog, cat or ferret is vaccinated against rabies – pets must be at least 12 weeks old before they can be vaccinated.
Wait 21 days after the primary vaccination before travel
Dogs must be treated against tapeworm 24-120 hours before landing, if they are travelling to a tapeworm free country.
Visit their vet to get an animal health certificate (AHC) for their pet, no more than 10 days before travel to the EU.

Pets and assistance dogs will also need to enter the EU through a travellers’ point of entry (TPE) , which includes all the major French ports such as Calais, Caen and Dunkirk.

All of these requirements will also apply for movements of pets and assistance dogs from Great Britain to Northern Ireland. However recognising that these changes will take time to adjust to, the UK Government is working with the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) in Northern Ireland on an enforcement approach that takes this challenge into account. This approach will be implemented in a way which supports pet owners and assistance dog users while the Government pursues a permanent solution.

There will be no change to the current health preparations or documents for pets entering Great Britain from the EU or Northern Ireland from 1 January 2021.

Christine Middlemiss, UK Chief Veterinary Officer, said:

We have been granted ‘Part 2’ listed third country status by the EU which will ensure that travelling with your pet continues from 1 January onwards. Your vet will be able to advise what you need to do in order to obtain the correct documentation to travel and you can find the latest pet travel advice on gov.uk or by searching ‘pet travel’.

Updated guidance on pet travel has been available since November 2018, ensuring that owners will be ready for any future scenario, so many pet owners will already be familiar with that they need to do.

The UK government is continuing to press the European Commission to secure Part 1 listed status. The UK has one of the most rigorous pet checking regimes in Europe and currently meets all the requirements for Part 1 listed status under the EU Pet Travel Scheme.

The latest advice for pet owners seeking to travel to the EU after 1 January 2021 can be found here .

Further information

Passengers should always check the rules of the country they are travelling to for any additional restrictions or requirements before they travel.
For information on commercial imports and exports of dogs, cats and ferrets to the EU – please refer to the Border Operating Model
There will be no changes or new requirements on movements from Northern Ireland to Great Britain.
There will be no changes to the current health preparations or documents for pets entering Great Britain from the EU in the immediate term, as the disease risks remains unchanged.
There are no restrictions on bringing pet rodents, rabbits, birds, invertebrates, amphibians and reptiles to the UK from EU countries.
Contact the Centre for International Trade (Carlisle) for more information on the rules for travelling with other species of pet.

Share this page

The following links open in a new tab

Share on Facebook (opens in new tab)
Share on Twitter (opens in new tab)

Help us improve GOV.UK

Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details.

To help us improve GOV.UK, we’d like to know more about your visit today. We’ll send you a link to a feedback form. It will take only 2 minutes to fill in. Don’t worry we won’t send you spam or share your email address with anyone.

Home » All Posts » Newsflash » Good News – pets can now travel freely between Northern Ireland and the mainland – no need for a passport!

Good News – pets can now travel freely between Northern Ireland and the mainland – no need for a passport!

Since the Northern Ireland Protocol came into effect when the UK left the EU’s regulatory framework, the law has been clear that to travel with a dog from the mainland UK to Northern Ireland, rabies vaccination and onerous paperwork were required. However, in the last few hours, the proposed Windsor protocol might change all that…

What is the Northern Ireland Protocol?

In order to avoid a hard border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, which it was feared might reignite the Troubles, the Northern Ireland Protocol was agreed by then-Prime Minister Boris Johnson. Amongst its many terms and provisions, it meant that Northern Ireland had to be treated as an EU state for pets moving from Great Britain (the term used to collectively describe England, Scotland and Wales).

Unfortunately, that meant that for a dog, cat or ferret to travel from Great Britain (a rabies-free country) to Northern Ireland (another rabies-free territory), they had to be vaccinated against rabies. And although both territories are free of the dangerous tapeworm Echinococcus multilocularis , additional tapeworm treatment was needed too. And the old-style Pet Passports were no longer valid, instead complex Animal Health Certificates were needed.

What has changed?

Well, in the last few hours, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and the President of the EU Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, have come to an agreement that should alter the equation.

Under the new Windsor Framework, pet movements between Great Britain and Northern Ireland will require only a new travel document detailing the pet’s microchip number, and a declaration that the dog will not be moving on to Eire or any other EU country.

If the owner wants to take their dog into the Republic of Ireland – or another EU country – then the rabies vaccination, tapeworm treatment and AHC requirements will remain. Meanwhile, for Northern Irish pet owners who want to travel to Southern Ireland or the wider EU, their current EU Pet Passports will still be valid.

So when does this change take effect?

We don’t know yet – it will depend on when (or maybe even if) the agreement is ratified and signed, and then when it comes into force.

However, so far, it looks optimistic for those with pets who need or want to visit friends and family, or holiday, in another part of the UK and cross the Irish Sea in the process.

Report a Thread or Reply

Thank you for your help. A member of our team will investigate this further.

Vets Near Me
Symptom Checker
Poisons Guide
Pet Health Advice
Pet Insurance
Vet Prices Comparison UK
Dog Breed Guide
Best UK Vet Awards
Info for vets
Cookie Control
Privacy Policy

Home / Do Northern Ireland pets need passports for Ireland?

> Do Northern Ireland pets need passports for Ireland?

Do Northern Ireland pets need passports for Ireland?

5 October 2018 7 minute read

CLAIM: Pet owners travelling from Northern Ireland to Ireland require “EU pet passports”.

This includes your pet being marked by a transponder (microchip) and vaccinated against rabies. There are presently no border checks for pets (as official policy); however it is uncertain what regulations will apply post-Brexit.

UPDATE: This fact check is republished with updated information. There is no change in the verdict of the claim.

Worries about Brexit and pets

Recently, several media resources ( 1 ; 2 ; 3 ; 4 ) reported concerns about what a “no deal” Brexit would mean, not for Irish or UK citizens themselves, but for their pets. (There’s even an anti-Brexit campaign called Wooferendum .)

There are some specific concerns around what actions owners and their pets would have to take in a “no deal” scenario, if they want to travel from Northern Ireland to Ireland and vice versa after 29 March 2019.

BBC Northern Ireland Economics & Business Editor, John Campbell, remarked that Northern Ireland pet owners already have to take measures for travelling with their pets. On 24 September 2018, he tweeted that “if you wanted to take your dog to Dunfanaghy … you’re supposed to have a valid pet passport”.

What is a “travelling pet”?

The travelling of pets between EU countries is regulated by the EU Regulation No 576/2013 . “Travelling” means the “non-commercial movement of pet animals into an EU country from another EU country, a territory or a non-EU country”. “Pets” are defined as cats, dogs and ferrets: animals susceptible to rabies.

Four conditions must be fulfilled if you want your pet to travel between EU countries; these are stated in Article 6 of the Regulation:

Microchip (or “clearly readable tattoo applied before 3/7/2011”)
Anti-rabies vaccination
Compliant with preventable health measures for diseases or infections beyond rabies (Article 19(1))
Accompanied by an identification document (in accordance with Article 22)

What is a “pet passport”?

It is this “identification document” that Campbell is referring to in his tweet. The document is modeled as an “EU pet passport”, specified in EU Regulation No. 577/2013 and applicable since 29 December 2014 .

The pet passport contains information about:

the location of the transponder or the tattoo and the alphanumeric code displayed by the transponder or the tattoo
the name, species, breed, sex, colour, date of birth and any noteworthy characteristics of the pet
owner’s and authorised vet’s details
details of the anti-rabies vaccination

What about the Northern Ireland-Ireland border?

Article 8 of Regulation No 576/2013 makes it possible for member states to “conclude mutual agreements to derogate from anti-rabies vaccination condition”. Pets should still be vaccinated against rabies in order to travel between Ireland and Northern Ireland. However, the Northern Ireland Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD; now DAERA) stated : “In recognition of the negligible risk of rabies, there are currently no systematic border checks on pets moving between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland”.

However, there are no exceptions in regards to having to carry a valid pet passport when travelling between Ireland and the UK, including travel to/from Northern Ireland.

Both the Irish Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine and the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs of Northern Ireland confirmed this by email to FactCheckNI.

Will this change in case of a “no deal” Brexit?

On 24 September 2018, the UK Department for Environment Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) published a guidance note that “sets out how the arrangements that allow pet owners to travel to and from the EU with pets (cats, dogs and ferrets) would change if the UK leaves the EU in March 2019 without a deal”.

In the case of a “no deal” scenario, the UK will become a “third country” regarding the EU pet travel policies. The rules will change, depending on whether the UK is a “listed” or “unlisted” country. The lists are laid out in Annex II of Regulation No 577/2013.

Part 1 country . By demonstrating that rules equivalent to EU standards apply ( Regulation No 576/2013, Article 13 ) the UK could be listed as a “Part 1 country” along with other non-EU European countries/territories like Switzerland and Gibraltar. UK pet owners would then apply for a “third country pet passport”, with which they could travel to EU countries with their pets.

Part 2 country . The UK could be listed as a “Part 2 country” if it applies and demonstrates that it fulfils certain criteria (which can be find in Paragraph 2 of Article 13). There are 43 countries (including the US and Russia) currently on this list. Pet owners in these countries cannot apply for a pet passport. Instead an “ EU health certificate ” is required.

The certificate documents the alpha-numeric code displayed by the transponder or the tattoo and the details of anti-rabies vaccination. It must be completed and issued by an official veterinarian. The certificate is valid from ten days from the date of issue by the official veterinarian until the date of the compliance check in the entered EU country.

In contrast from pets from Part 1 countries (“Third Country Pet Passport”), pets from Part 2 countries must pass a documentary and identity check “through a traveller’s point of entry designated by Member States”. In Ireland, this point of entry is Dublin Airport (Section 4; boldface and italics original):

“Pets must enter Ireland through Dublin Airport only and must undergo compliance checks on arrival Pets travelling to Ireland from non – EU countries must enter through Dublin Airport and must undergo a compliance check on arrival.”

This regulation may need to be amended in this scenario, to accommodate cross-border pet travellers.

Unlisted country . If the UK was an “unlisted country” regarding EU pet travel policies, the same Part 2 rules would apply (the health certificate and compliance check at an official entrypoint) along with an extra condition: a rabies antibody titration test. (Regulation No 276/2013, Annex IV).

Here, an authorised veterinarian collects a sample of blood from your pet in an approved laboratory which has to be taken at least 30 days after an anti-rabies vaccination. After a successful test you have to wait at least three months before you can start your pet travel. For a next trip, the test should not be renewed as long as the rabies vaccinations are up to date.

No one can yet predict which of these scenarios will apply to the UK and what the consequences will be for Northern Ireland pets and owners travelling to Ireland. The intentions of the UK government are to seek “technical discussions with the European Commission to allow the UK to become a listed third country on the day we leave the EU”.

The claim that you need a valid EU passport for travelling with your dog from Northern Ireland to Ireland is true. Along with a passport, your pet should be marked by a transponder (microchip) and vaccinated against rabies. However, there are currently no border checks to ensure your pet is vaccinated and is accompanied by a pet passport.

Once no longer in the EU, the rules and requirements for pets travelling from the UK will depend on how the UK is categorised by the EU with regard to pet health and travel arrangements. It could be as simple as carrying a “third country pet passport” but could involve travelling through a specific point of entry and having a pet tested before and after crossing the border.

This fact check was originally published on 5 October 2018.

FactCheckNI is Northern Ireland’s first and only dedicated independent fact-checking service and a verified signatory to the International Fact-Checking Network’s Code of Principles . You can learn more about about FactCheckNI , our personnel , what our article verdicts mean, and how to submit a claim .

immigration

Did almost 1,500 people die in NI in one year because of long waits in A&E?

27 March 2024

CLAIM: There is strong evidence that in 2022, delays in Northern Ireland’s emergency departments led to the premature deaths of 1,434 people.

ACCURATE WITH CONSIDERATION

Do 11% of Travellers die by suicide?

11 March 2024

CLAIM: Sinn Féin TD Mark Wark said that 11% of all Travellers will die by suicide – a rate which is seven times higher than the general population.

Are Northern Ireland’s child vaccination rates for measles too low?

5 March 2024

CLAIM: Alliance MLA Danny Donnelly claimed that almost 89% of children in NI have received their first MMR jab, but fewer return for the second dose – with only 85% fully vaccinated by the time they are five years old. The WHO recommends a 95% vaccination rate to prevent outbreaks.

Beta This is a new service – your feedback (opens in a new tab) will help us to improve it.

This is for testing use only

Enter the password that we emailed you to enter the move pets from Great Britain to Northern Ireland Scheme service.

Need help using this service? Get help

Cookies on citizensinformation.ie

We use cookies to collect information about how you use citizensinformation.ie. This helps us to improve your experience. You can find out more about the cookies we use in our Cookie notice . You can also read our Privacy policy . You can accept all cookies or you can chose which cookies to accept or reject. You can change your cookie preferences at any time by using the My cookie preferences link at the bottom of each page.

Cookie preferences

Cookies used by google analytics.

We use Google Analytics to measure how you use the website so we can improve it. We have configured Google Analytics to anonymise your IP address so that you are not personally identified. We gather information on:

How you got to the site
The pages you visit on citizensinformation.ie, and how long you spend on each page
What you click while you are visiting the site

Bringing pets to Ireland

Introduction, special rules for travellers from ukraine and eu citizens travelling from russia, cats, dogs and ferrets – eu travel, cats, dogs and ferrets – non eu travel, pet birds, rabbits and rodents, non-compliant pets, further information and contacts.

The importation of pets into Ireland is strictly controlled to ensure that diseases such as rabies are not introduced. The EU system of Passports for Pets allows cats, dogs and ferrets to travel between EU member states and some other countries that are part of the scheme.

The information in this document is about bringing a pet to Ireland, and is not about buying a pet abroad, or bringing animals into Ireland for commercial purposes .

For EU rules to apply, you must travel to Ireland with your pet.

If you are bringing a cat, dog or ferret from outside the EU (including the UK but not including Northern Ireland), you should follow the rules set out in ‘Cats, dogs and ferrets – non EU travel’ below.

From 21 November 2022, if you bring your pet to Ireland, you must comply with all the requirements for pets entering Ireland from outside the EU/EEA.

If your pet is not fully complaint, it will be put in quarantine. You must pay for the quarantine.

You can read about the current arrangements in Ukrainian and Russian .

If you are coming to Ireland from another EU country you should follow the steps below to bring your cat, dog (including guide dogs) or ferret with you to Ireland. These rules also apply to pets travelling from:

Faroe Islands
Lichtenstein
Northern Ireland
Switzerland
Vatican City State

Different rules apply if you are:

Buying a cat, dog or ferret abroad and having it shipped to Ireland
Shipping your cat, dog or ferret back to Ireland unaccompanied
Travelling to Ireland to sell a cat, dog or ferret
Travelling with more than 5 pets
Bringing your pet unaccompanied
Travelling from outside the EU or from a country not listed above (see ‘Coming from outside the EU’ below)

Detailed information about these situations is on the Government's Pet Travel Portal.

The law governing the importation of cats, dogs and ferrets for non-commercial purposes is the Pet Travel (Cats, Dogs and Ferrets) Regulations 2020 .

Step 1 – Microchipping

Your cat, dog or ferret must be microchipped before it is vaccinated against rabies. The microchip must be readable by a device compatible with ISO standard 11785. If you or your vet is unsure about the specifications of the microchip, you should contact the microchip manufacturer. Alternatively, you can carry your own microchip reader with you which can be used on your pet.

Step 2 – Vaccination

Your pet must be vaccinated against rabies. The vaccine must be given after the microchip is inserted.

Your pet must be at least 12 weeks old when it is vaccinated. You must wait until the appropriate immunity has developed before you can bring the dog, cat or ferret to Ireland. This is the time as stated on the datasheet of the vaccination given, and must be at least 21 days after the primary vaccination is given.

The waiting period does not apply to booster vaccinations, provided they are given BEFORE the date the previous rabies vaccine has run out.

Step 3 – the pet passport

You need an EU pet passport issued by an EU country or one of the countries listed above, to enter Ireland. The pet passport must be stamped by a vet to show that the rabies vaccination has been given.

Step 4 – Tapeworm treatment

If you are bringing a dog into Ireland, it must be treated for tapeworm (Echinococcus multilocularis) each time you travel to Ireland, unless you are travelling from Northern Ireland, Finland, Malta or Norway. The treatment must be given by a vet between 1 and 5 days before you arrive in Ireland, and recorded in the pet passport.

Note : If you travel from Britain (not including Northern Ireland) with your pet after 1 January 2021, non EU rules apply. You must follow the following process even if your pet is returning to Ireland from Britain and was born and raised in Ireland. The rules for travelling from Northern Ireland have not changed.

If your pet does not have an EU pet passport (GB pet passports are no longer allowed, but NI pet passports are), you must have a health certificate issued by UK authorities. You can read more about travelling from Britain .

Step 3 – EU pet passport, or EU health certificate

If you have an EU pet passport the pet passport must be stamped by a vet registered in the EU to show that the rabies vaccination has been given. This is useful for Irish pets who are returning from holidays in a non-EU country.

If your cat, dog or ferret does not have a valid pet passport, you must get an EU Health Certificate signed and stamped by an official government veterinarian in the country you are travelling from..

After being checked and stamped on arrival into the EU, this Certificate is valid for 4 months, or until the anti-rabies vaccination expires – whichever is the earliest.

Step 4 – Blood test

Your cat, dog or ferret must get a blood test called a Rabies serological test, if they are from a country or territory that is not a listed country or territory . If your country is not listed in the drop down menu on the Pet Travel portal, your pet needs a rabies blood test.

You must wait at least 30 days from the rabies vaccination before your pet gets its blood tested. The sample must be sent to an EU approved laboratory.

The blood test must show that the vaccination was successful. If it is successful, you must wait a further 3 months from the taking of the blood sample before travelling to Ireland.

If your pet is starting it’s journey in the EU, (e.g. Ireland to Brazil and back again), you do not have to wait 3 months in Brazil if the blood sample was taken by a vet in the EU or one of the following countries, and entered into an EU pet passport or EU health certificate before leaving Ireland:

You must bring the original test certificate, or a copy received from the lab, with you when you come to Ireland.

If the blood test is taken in a non-EU country, the three month waiting period will always apply.

Step 5 – Tapeworm treatment

If you are bringing a dog into Ireland from a non-EU country, it must be treated for tapeworm (Echinococcus multilocularis) each time you travel to Ireland. The treatment must be given by a vet between 1 and 5 days before you come to arrive in Ireland, and recorded in the pet passport or EU health certificate.

Step 6 – Advance notice

You must tell the Irish port or airport authorities at least 24 hours before your arrival, but ideally in the week or so before travel. You must only enter Ireland at the following ports and airports. Advance notice should be emailed to:

Dublin Airport - [email protected]
Dublin Port - [email protected]
Shannon Airport - [email protected]
Cork Airport - [email protected]
Ringaskiddy Port, Cork - [email protected]
Rosslare Europort - [email protected]

Step 7 – Compliance check

Your pet must undergo a compliance check on arrival into Ireland from a non-EU country. This is arranged using the email addresses above.

If your pet is travelling to another EU country first and you have a check there, then your pet does not need another check on entry into Ireland. If however, you entered another EU country and were unable to arrange a check to be carried out there, you must arrange a compliance check on arrival into Ireland.

If you are moving to live in Ireland or coming here on holiday, you may be able to bring your pet bird, rabbit or rodent with you, provided you meet certain requirements. There is more information about the entry requirements for birds, rabbits and rodents either from EU or from outside the EU on the Government's Pet Travel Portal.

If you are bringing a pet bird, rabbit or rodent to Ireland from another EU state you must accompany the pet to Ireland. At least 24 hours before you arrive in Ireland you must send a completed advance notice of importation into Ireland form to the Animal Health Division, Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine at the address below. Owners of pet birds must also travel with a completed Owner Declaration for Pet Birds form.

If you wish to bring a pet bird, rabbit or rodent from a country outside the EU , please see DAFM's guidance, and make sure you have enough time to allow the pre-export requirements, which include a veterinary health certificate, testing, or quarantine requirements to be completed.

Forms and notices are available on the DAFM website.

If your pet does not meet the entry requirements, it may be refused entry into Ireland. The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine may return your pet to the country you travelled from.

Alternatively DAFM may place your pet into quarantine to be tested or microchipped and vaccinated to comply with EU requirements. Your pet will remain in quarantine until it fully complies with EU Legislation. In very limited circumstances, your pet may be euthanised. You will have to pay to cover the cost of these measures, including quarantine if necessary.

Blank templates for EU Health Certificates, advance notice forms and detailed guidance are available from DAFM.

Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine

Agriculture House Kildare Street Dublin 2 Ireland

Manage cookie preferences

By using this website, you consent to our use of cookies. For more information on cookies see our Privacy Policy Page Close

Pet Travel Portal

Dogs
Cats
Ferrets
Birds
Rabbits
Rodents
Reptiles and Amphibians
Hybrid Pet

Bringing your pets into Ireland

Please select a species (from the tabs) and a country from the drop down list and click “search”. if your country is not listed, please select “other countries.

Select the country you and your pet are travelling from in the dropdown menu above to find out the requirements for entering Ireland

Pet owners, or designated persons, must travel to Ireland with their pets on the same flight per current guidelines. Where the owner cannot travel on the same flight, a designated person must travel on the same flight as the pet and the owner must travel within 5 days of the pets arrival. For full information select PET TYPE and COUNTRY and SEARCH above.

PETS MAY ONLY ENTER IRELAND THROUGH CORK AIRPORT, DUBLIN AIRPORT, DUBLIN PORT, SHANNON AIRPORT, THE PORT OF CORK AT RINGASKIDDY OR ROSSLARE EUROPORT AND MUST UNDERGO COMPLIANCE CHECKS UPON ARRIVAL. PETS MAY NOT ENTER IRELAND THROUGH SMALL/PRIVATE AIRPORTS, PORTS, MARINAS, YACHT CLUBS ETC.

Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine hours of business at Dublin Airport have changed to 07:00am to 21:00pm Monday through Sunday.

Please note, if an animal's registered owner on the microchip is a company or a registered charity, travel into Ireland is deemed a commercial movement and you need to visit here: commercial movement

For information on bringing/importing a dog with cropped ears into Ireland, please see Ear-cropping of Dogs Regulations 2023 in the useful links section below

IF YOUR PET IS QUARANTINED UPON ENTRY INTO IRELAND, PLEASE DIRECTLY CONTACT THE QUARANTINE FACILITY (below) IMMEDIATELY TO DISCUSS OPTIONS AND COSTS (do not travel to the quarantine facility without an appointment)

[email protected] (353) 1-8401776

If you are planning to travel to a non-EU country with your pet on a short trip or holiday, please select your pet species type and the country you plan on visiting in the tab above, and read the conditions of re-entering Ireland with your pet as vaccination protocols may require up to 3 months wait period in some instances.

Useful Links

Advance Notice Portal

ear-cropping-of-dogs-regulations-2023

Special Arrangements for Ukraine and EU citizens in Russia

Guide and Assistance Dogs

Transiting Ireland with pet cat, dog or ferrets

Private Transport

Travelling or relocating out of Ireland with your pet

Information for vets

EU regulations on Pet Travel

Contact Details

| Privacy Policy
| Legal Notices
| Sitemap
| Contact Us

Are you sure you want to leave the feed?

Oops... something went wrong!

Looking for inspiration? Planning a trip? Or just want to scroll yourself happy? We'll show you an Ireland that's tailor-made for you.

#Landscapes
#CultureandHeritage
#OutdoorActivities

MyICallOut_FindTheThings_EN_Desk_Above-Left

Oops... no internet connection

While offline, you can still add items to My board. New travel reccomendations will only show up once you’re back online.

See what Ireland has in store for you

Items without a physical location are not shown in map view.

Looks like your board is empty

Look out for the little heart icon around Ireland.com. Simply tap the heart to add items to your board!

Board settings

Collection cover image.

Visible to people you share your board with

my-ireland-butterfly-killarney-national-park-county-kerry

Share board

Share a link to your My Ireland board and inspire friends, fellow travellers and family. Only you can add or remove items from your board.

Sign in Sign up Forgot your password?

Create an account.

Access My Ireland across all your devices by logging in.

Location access

View offers and deals nearby
Find travel inspiration based on your location
Get local weather forecasts and essential information

Enable location access

Location access on ios.

1 Open the website settings for this website in your browser.
2 Select Location settings.
3 Choose Allow.
1 Open the My Ireland website.

2 Select the icon below.

3 Select Website Settings.

4 Change Location status to Allow.

Notifications

Travel times.

Tell us when you are travelling to Ireland and we'll show you tailored reccomendations during of your trip.

Recommended events during your stay
Helpful travel reminders and updates

You have unsaved changes. Save before leaving?

We take your privacy very seriously and only ever process your data with your permission. If possible this is handled anonymously and we will never store your data for longer than is required. For more information on how we handle your personal data, please read our privacy policy.

Remove data

To securely remove all data associated with your profile, please contact our Data Protection Officer.

Reset your board

This will remove all the items you have previously liked from your board. Please note, you can’t undo this action.

Are you sure you want to reset your board?

Created date 19 July 2023

Delete account

Sorry you’re leaving. Just a reminder – if you delete your account, you won’t be able to post in Community. And it’s permanent so you can’t undo it in the future.

Delete your account

No. Keep my account
Yes. Delete my account

carnfunnock-country-park-county-antrim-dogs-re

Bringing your pet to Ireland

The importation of pets into Ireland is strictly controlled to ensure diseases such as rabies are kept off of the island

star-wars-last-jedi-malin-head-county-donegal

Ireland in your inbox

Sign up to receive free email newsletters from Tourism Ireland, including regular tailored updates on holiday ideas and insider tips.

We will use your email address to send you personalised content straight to your inbox based on how you interact with this website and our advertisements on other websites.

Something went wrong...

Success! Thank you for subscribing to our Newsletter!

I understand that by signing up, I will receive personalised email content based on my use of Tourism Ireland’s website, emails and Tourism Ireland’s advertising on other websites, cookies and tracking pixels. You can unsubscribe at any time by clicking 'unsubscribe' in our emails. Find out more information on "How we handle your personal data" in our privacy policy .

Bringing your pet on holiday with you is fun – they’re part of the family after all. Selected hotels, guest houses and B&Bs happily accommodate pets: the five-star Cliff House Hotel in County Waterford even offers a luxury package specially designed for your pooch. B&B Ireland has lots of members who accept pets into their homes and many self-catering properties are now pet-friendly.

For the enthusiastic dog owner, the possibilities for walks are endless on the island – although remember to keep your dog on a leash at all times as sheep can pop up out of the most unlikely places! During the summer months, country fairs and festivals hold all sorts of dog shows, cat shows and pet races; so if you’re particularly proud of your pooch why not see if they can bring home the gold?

Murlough Bay

County Antrim

For the enthusiastic dog owner, the possibilities for walks are endless on the island

Bringing pets into the Republic of Ireland

Entry requirements depend on where your pet is travelling from .

Travelling from the EU

If you are bringing your pet dog, cat or ferret into the Republic of Ireland from another EU country or from Andorra; Gibraltar; Greenland and the Faroe Islands; Iceland; Liechtenstein; Monaco, Norway; San Marino; Switzerland or the Vatican City State, your pet must:

• Be microchipped (this must be done before anything else)

• Have a valid rabies vaccination

• Have an EU Pet Passport or Health Certificate

• Be treated for tapeworm (dogs only) before each visit, unless you’re travelling from Northern Ireland, Finland, Malta or Norway)

Travelling from Great Britain

If you are bringing your pet dog, cat or ferret into the Republic of Ireland from Great Britain, your pet must:

• Have an Animal Health Certificate

• Be treated for tapeworm (dogs only)

Allow plenty of time to arrange the relevant vaccinations and requirements with your vet before you travel – and don’t forget your pet will need a new AHC and tapeworm treatment for each trip. Find out more at Gov.uk: Taking your pet abroad and Gov.ie: Pet Travel Portal .

dogwalkers-portumna-castle-county-galway

Dogwalking at Portumna Castle, County Galway

Travelling from outside the EU and Great Britain

Entry requirements depend on your country of origin. You can find details of the requirements for each country on the Irish Government's Pet Travel Portal .

At a minimum, your pet must:

Be microchipped (this must be done before anything else)
Have a valid rabies vaccination
Have an EU Health Certificate
Be treated for tapeworm (dogs only) before each visit
Enter the Republic of Ireland only through Cork Airport, Dublin Airport, Dublin Port, Shannon Airport, the Port of Cork at Ringaskiddy or Rosslare Europort and must undergo compliance checks on arrival.

Pets coming from certain countries may also need to have a blood test after the rabies vaccination at least three months before entry.

Advance notice: If you're entering Ireland from a non-EU country you must arrange in advance to have a compliance check carried out on your arrival. You can find contact details to make these arrangements on the Pet Travel Portal .

Castlewellan Forest Park, County Down

Bringing pets into Northern Ireland

Dogs, cats and ferrets from certain countries or territories can enter Northern Ireland without quarantine provided they meet certain criteria.

Northern Ireland is part of the EU Pet Travel Scheme so you can use a pet passport issued in an EU country, including the Republic of Ireland, to bring your pet into Northern Ireland. Your pet will need to:

Have an EU Pet Passport or Health Certificate
Be treated for tapeworm (dogs only) before every visit

Great Britain is outside the EU Pet Travel Scheme so there are different rules around bringing your pet to Northern Ireland from Great Britain. Before you travel, you should check the Northern Ireland Government website or Gov.uk: Taking your pet abroad to make sure you adhere to the latest requirements.

Entry requirements depend on your country of origin. You can find details of the requirements for each country on the Northern Ireland Government's website .

Have an EU Health Certificate confirming microchip and vaccinations
Enter Northern Ireland only through Belfast Port, Belfast International Airport, Belfast City Airport, City of Derry Airport or Larne Port and may be required to undergo compliance checks on arrival.

Travelling within the island of Ireland

Pets travelling from the Republic of Ireland to Northern Ireland or vice versa should be microchipped, vaccinated against rabies and meet any additional requirements. They must also be accompanied by either a valid Animal Health Certificate (Great Britain residents) or an EU pet passport.

Getting here: transport and your pet

It's up to each individual airline to decide whether to carry your pet in the cabin or as excess baggage and each ferry operator has differing rules on travelling with animals. Always check with your transport company before you travel to confirm their requirements for transporting your pet.

IMAGES

Bringing your pet to Ireland
Pet friendly holiday lets in Northern Ireland
20 Dog Friendly Airbnbs in Ireland
550 acres of Country Estate for pets to sniff and explore! Then retreat
If you're planning on travelling in Ireland with your dog, find out
The Best Pet-Friendly Places to Stay in Ireland

COMMENTS

Travelling with Pets
If you are travelling to Northern Ireland from Ukraine with your pets, email [email protected] or call +44 28 90 524588 to find out what to do. Advice Note for Refugees Travelling with Pets from Ukraine; ... The EU Pet Travel regulation (Regulation (EU) 576/2013) details the documentary, health and compliance check requirements ...
Q&As for Pet Travel from 1 January 2021
The following Q&A provides clarification for pet travel between Great Britain and Northern Ireland from 1 January 2021. For the purposes of pet travel, Great Britain includes England, Scotland, Wales, the Channel Islands and Isle of Man. The additional requirements will impact significantly on those travelling with pets within the United ...
Travelling to Northern Ireland with a Dog in 2024
From 1st January 2021, once the Brexit transition ended, the rules to travel with your dog from England, Scotland or Wales to Northern Ireland changed. Previously, there was no need for a pet passport or any other special preparations, but this is technically no longer the case. In 2021, Great Britain became a "Part 2 listed third country ...
Taking your pet dog, cat or ferret abroad
Travelling with more than 5 pets. You cannot take more than 5 pets to an EU country or Northern Ireland unless you're attending or training for a: competition. show. sporting event. You'll ...
Travelling with your pets
Contact a vet. To make sure your pet is able to travel you should contact your vet before travelling to get the latest advice. You can also get the latest information and check the rules for the country you're travelling to or from at this link: Travelling with pets. Share this page.
Bringing your pet to Ireland
Northern Ireland is part of the EU Pet Travel Scheme so you can use a pet passport issued in an EU country, including the Republic of Ireland, to bring your pet into Northern Ireland. Your pet will need to: Be microchipped (this must be done before anything else) Have an EU Pet Passport or Health Certificate. Have a valid rabies vaccination.
New rules for pet travel from 1 January 2021
Pet owners will need to follow new requirements before taking their pet to the European Union or Northern Ireland at the end of the transition period. New rules for pet travel from 1 January 2021 ...
The ultimate guide to places you can take your dog in Northern Ireland
25. Marine hotel, Ballycastle. The Marine Hotel in Ballycastle was among one of the first hotels in Northern Ireland to become Dog Friendly. For the small fee of £15 your pup will receive treats, fresh water and a doggy blanket- there is also a birthday package available for those looking to treat their pup.
Pets and the Northern Ireland Protocol
The impact of the Protocol on travel with pets to Northern Ireland. As a result of the Protocol, Northern Ireland is being treated as a constituent part of the EU single market for goods and services, thus needing to comply with relevant regulations set down by the EU. So, when anyone arrives in Northern Ireland with a pet, the owner must ...
Good News
If the owner wants to take their dog into the Republic of Ireland - or another EU country - then the rabies vaccination, tapeworm treatment and AHC requirements will remain. Meanwhile, for Northern Irish pet owners who want to travel to Southern Ireland or the wider EU, their current EU Pet Passports will still be valid.
Pet travel from the U.S. to Finland, Malta, Ireland, (including
Pet Travel. Take a Pet From the United States to Another Country (Export) Bring a Pet From Another Country into the United States (Import) ... Ireland (including Northern Ireland) or Norway after entering the EU, your dog must be treated for tapeworms by an EU veterinarian 1-5 days before entering those countries. "Commercial" Health Certificate.
Do Northern Ireland pets need passports for Ireland?
What about the Northern Ireland-Ireland border? Article 8 of Regulation No 576/2013 makes it possible for member states to "conclude mutual agreements to derogate from anti-rabies vaccination condition". Pets should still be vaccinated against rabies in order to travel between Ireland and Northern Ireland.
Pet Travel: Europe
Bringing your pet dog, cat or ferret into Ireland from another EU country or certain listed countries, including Northern Ireland. The pet must arrive in Ireland with their owner.If the owner cannot travel with the pet directly, then someone else (an authorised person) may travel with the pet directly on the owner's behalf, BUT only if the owner's own journey is within 5 days of the pet ...
Taking your dog, cat or ferret from Great Britain to Northern Ireland
Taking a pet from Great Britain to Northern Ireland Beta This is a new service - your feedback (opens in a new tab) will help us to improve ... Lifelong pet travel documents This is for testing use only Enter the password that we emailed you to enter the move pets from Great Britain to Northern Ireland Scheme service. Password ...
Pet travel from the U.S. to Finland, Malta, Ireland, (including ...
If you take your dog to Finland, Malta, Ireland (including Northern Ireland) or Norway after entering the EU, your dog must be treated for tapeworms by an EU veterinarian 1-5 days before entering those countries. ... For pet travel requirements not listed, APHIS has not been officially informed by the foreign country about the requirements for ...
gov
Cats, dogs and ferrets must comply with the rules for pet travel as outlined in sections above. Pets from non-EU countries must enter through a designated Travellers Point of Entry (TPOE) after providing advance notice and undergo a compliance check on arrival. TPOEs are: Dublin Port. Dublin Airport.
Bringing pets to Ireland
Note: If you travel from Britain (not including Northern Ireland) with your pet after 1 January 2021, non EU rules apply. You must follow the following process even if your pet is returning to Ireland from Britain and was born and raised in Ireland. The rules for travelling from Northern Ireland have not changed.
gov
Pet Travel from Ireland to the UK (excl. NI) From Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. Published on 29 November 2021. Last updated on 16 August 2022. Pet travel includes the movement of pet dogs, cats and ferrets accompanied by their owner, or a person authorised by the owner, as long as the owner is also travelling within five days ...
Pet Travel: OutsideEU
Bringing Your Pet Dog, Cat or Ferret into Ireland from Outside the EU From Certain Listed Countries . The pet must arrive in Ireland with their owner.If the owner cannot travel with the pet directly, then someone else (an authorised person) may travel with the pet directly on the owner's behalf, BUT only if the owner's own journey is within 5 days of the pet/authorised person's journey.
Pet Travel: Home
[email protected] (353) 1-8401776. If you are planning to travel to a non-EU country with your pet on a short trip or holiday, please select your pet species type and the country you plan on visiting in the tab above, and read the conditions of re-entering Ireland with your pet as vaccination protocols may require up to 3 months wait ...
Bringing your pet to Ireland
Northern Ireland is part of the EU Pet Travel Scheme so you can use a pet passport issued in an EU country, including the Republic of Ireland, to bring your pet into Northern Ireland. Your pet will need to: Be microchipped (this must be done before anything else) Have an EU Pet Passport or Health Certificate. Have a valid rabies vaccination.