PetPass ReadyBringing your dog or cat to Belgium from the USA in 2026
Last updated: September 6, 2026 — verified against official sources.
Belgium applies the standard EU pet travel rules — and as the home of the EU institutions, its border staff see pet paperwork every day. The requirements are identical to France or Germany: microchip, rabies vaccination at least 21 days before travel, and a USDA-endorsed EU health certificate issued within 10 days of arrival. Get the dates right and entry is straightforward.
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…).
Traveling to another country? France · Spain · Germany · Italy · Netherlands · Portugal · Ireland · Belgium · Sweden · Austria · Norway · United Kingdom · United States
Frequently asked questions
Is there a quarantine in Belgium?
No — pets arriving with valid microchip, rabies vaccination and endorsed EU health certificate do not face quarantine.
Do cats need a tapeworm treatment for Belgium?
No — tapeworm treatment is only required for the UK, Ireland, Finland, Malta and Norway.
Which airport can I fly into?
Brussels Airport (BRU) is an approved EU point of entry for pets from the USA.
Puppies and kittens must be at least 15 weeks old on arrival in Belgium.
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