Bringing your dog or cat to Austria from the USA in 2026
Last updated: September 6, 2026: verified against official sources.
Austria applies the EU pet travel rules in full. Whether you are heading to Vienna or the Alps, the paperwork is the same as anywhere else in the EU: microchip first, rabies vaccination at least 21 days before arrival, and a USDA-endorsed EU health certificate valid for 10 days. No quarantine applies to compliant pets.
Same rules as the rest of the EU
Microchip first, rabies vaccination at least 21 days before arrival, then a USDA-endorsed EU health certificate valid 10 days. Vienna (VIE) is an approved entry point.
No quarantine
The 4 steps
- Microchip (ISO 11784/11785) first: Your pet must be microchipped BEFORE the rabies shot. A vaccination given before the chip does not count.
- Rabies vaccination ≥ 21 days before arrival: The vaccine must be given after the microchip and at least 21 days before entering the EU. It must stay valid on travel day.
- USDA-endorsed EU health certificate ≤ 10 days: A USDA-accredited vet issues the EU health certificate, then USDA APHIS endorses it. Valid 10 days from issue to arrival in the EU.
- Arrive via an approved EU point of entry: All main EU airports are approved for pets from the USA (Brussels, Stockholm Arlanda, Vienna…).
Frequently asked questions
Are there breed restrictions in Austria?
Austria has no federal import ban on breeds, but some provinces apply restrictions and muzzle requirements: check your destination province if your dog is on a restricted list.
Do I need an import permit?
No, up to 5 pets entering under the EU personal pet rules need only the endorsed health certificate.
Which airport is approved?
Vienna International Airport (VIE) is an approved EU point of entry for pets from the USA.
Official sources
- European Commission: food.ec.europa.eu/animals/movement-pets_en
- USDA APHIS: aphis.usda.gov/pet-travel
- Norwegian Food Safety Authority (Mattilsynet): mattilsynet.no