How to Bring Your Cat or Dog Into Portugal as a New Resident

(UK, USA, and Canada Guide)

Relocating to Portugal is exciting, especially when your furry friend is coming with you! If you’re moving from the UK, USA, or Canada, there are specific steps you need to follow to legally and safely bring your cat or dog into Portugal. This guide walks you through each stage: from prep in your home country to what to do once you land.

Step 1: Understand Portugal's Pet Import Requirements

Portugal, as part of the EU, follows strict regulations to prevent the spread of diseases like rabies. These apply to non-commercial pet travel:

  • Pets must be microchipped with an ISO 11784/11785 compliant 15-digit chip
  • A valid rabies vaccination (administered AFTER microchipping)
  • An EU Health Certificate issued within 10 days of travel (for non-EU countries)

More info: EU Pet Travel Rules

Step 2: Preparing in Your Home Country

For the UK:

  • Post-Brexit, the UK is a “Part II Listed” country. You need an EU Animal Health Certificate (AHC) issued by an Official Veterinarian (OV).
  • The AHC is valid for entry into the EU for 10 days and for onward travel within the EU for 4 months.
  • Learn more at UK Pet Travel Guidance

For the USA and Canada:

  • USA: Obtain an EU-compliant Health Certificate endorsed by the USDA
  • Canada: Obtain the Health Certificate approved by the CFIA
  • Rabies vaccination must be current and at least 21 days old.

Step 3: Booking Pet-Friendly Flights

Choose an airline that accommodates pet travel. Options include:

  • In-cabin travel: For small pets (usually under 8 kg with carrier)
  • Checked baggage: Medium-sized pets
  • Manifest cargo: For larger pets or breeds with special requirements

Airlines to consider: Lufthansa, KLM, Air France, TAP Air Portugal, and British Airways (from the UK)

Tips:

  • Book early, especially in peak seasons
  • Confirm airline pet policies and required documentation
  • Get a comfortable, IATA-compliant travel crate

Step 4: Arrival in Portugal

Upon landing:

  • Your pet will undergo a document check by customs or veterinary officials
  • You may enter through Lisbon, Porto, or Faro airports
  • Ensure all documents (microchip proof, rabies certificate, health certificate) are easily accessible

Veterinary Inspection Fees

  • €42.25 for one animal
  • €84.50 for two or more animals
  • These inspections are mandatory and conducted at designated Traveller’s Entry Points (Lisbon, Porto, Faro)
  • A small customs clearance fee of approximately €1.80 may also apply

Advance Notification Required: Notify Portuguese authorities 48 hours in advance by submitting a Notice of Arrival form

There is no quarantine for pets arriving with proper documentation.

Step 5: Registering Your Pet in Portugal

Within a few weeks of arrival:

  • Visit a local vet to convert the health certificate into an EU Pet Passport
  • Register your pet with the national pet database SIAC
  • Schedule regular vet visits to comply with local laws (e.g., rabies boosters, tapeworm treatments)

Note: Registration with SIAC is mandatory for pets residing in Portugal more than 120 days. A small fee (around €2.50) applies.

Final Thoughts

Bringing your cat or dog to Portugal involves preparation, but it’s entirely manageable. By following these steps and staying organized, you and your pet can settle into your new Portuguese life smoothly and legally.