The new EU pet health certificate from October 1, 2026

The steps, in order

• ISO microchip first. If the rabies vaccine was given before the chip, it doesn't count — your pet is vaccinated again and waits another 21 days.
• Rabies vaccine, with your pet at least 12 weeks old. After a first vaccination, travel no sooner than 21 days later.
• The EU health certificate (new format) from a USDA-accredited vet. It is valid for 30 days from issue, and USDA endorses it in original ink.
• USDA APHIS endorsement — your pet must arrive in the EU within 10 days of it.

When it becomes "commercial"

Your pet must fly with you, or with a person you authorise who travels with it no later than 5 days after you. A pet flying on its own, more than 5 pets, or a change of owner means a commercial movement: a different certificate, with a vet inspection within 48 hours of departure.

The US rabies shot trap

For the EU, a rabies vaccine given in the US counts as a 1-year “primary” vaccine — even a 3-year one — until your pet gets a booster within 12 months. Miss the booster by a single day and the next shot is primary again, with the 21-day wait. USDA’s tip: a fresh 1-year vaccine 3–6 months before the trip keeps the paperwork simple.

How early to start

If your pet still needs its first rabies shot, start at least 3–4 weeks before you fly: 21 days of waiting plus the 10-day certificate window.

Official sources: www.aphis.usda.gov · www.aphis.usda.gov. Not legal or veterinary advice — confirm with your vet, your airline and the official authority.

More guides

• Flying with a short-nosed dog or cat: which airlines say no
• The UK tapeworm rule for dogs: the 24–120 hour window
• Your UK pet passport no longer gets your pet into the EU