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The EU health certificate for pets: what it is and how to get it

Last updated: September 9, 2026 — verified against official sources.

Dogs and cats entering the European Union from the USA (or any non-EU country) need an EU health certificate, not an EU pet passport. The certificate has two hard deadlines that rebook flights: it is only valid for 10 days from issue to arrival, and the rabies vaccination must be at least 21 days old on travel day.

1 · VetMicrochip firstISO chip implanted before the rabies shot, otherwise the vaccine does not count

2 · VaccineRabies shotGiven after the chip. Earliest age for puppies and kittens: 12 weeks

3 · Wait21 daysEntry to the EU only allowed from 21 days after the vaccination

4 · PaperworkEU certificate + USDAAccredited vet issues it, USDA APHIS endorses it electronically

5 · ArriveWithin 10 daysThe certificate is valid from issue to arrival. Miss the window, redo the certificate

The certificate in 3 steps

Microchip first. Your pet must be microchipped (ISO 11784/11785) before the rabies shot. A vaccination given before the chip does not count.
Rabies vaccination, then 21 days. The vaccine must be at least 21 days old when your pet enters the EU, and still valid on travel day.
USDA-accredited vet, then USDA endorsement. An accredited vet fills the EU health certificate, and USDA APHIS endorses it electronically. Allow time: the certificate is valid only 10 days from issue, so the vet visit and the endorsement must both fit inside your travel window.

Passport vs health certificate

An EU pet passport is for pets that live in the EU and travel between member states. Pets arriving from outside the EU get a one-time EU health certificate instead: it covers a single entry, has no return-trip option, and must be re-issued for each trip. Once in the EU with a valid certificate, your pet does not need a passport for onward travel between EU countries during that stay.

Costs to expect

The certificate itself is issued by the vet (typically $100 to $250 in the USA depending on the clinic) and the USDA electronic endorsement fee is separate (around $40 to $120 depending on the endorsement office and speed). The 10-day validity means you may pay for a second visit if your flight moves.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between an EU pet passport and an EU health certificate?

An EU pet passport is issued to pets that live in the EU. Pets arriving from outside the EU, including the USA, need an EU health certificate instead.

How long is the EU health certificate valid?

The certificate is valid for 10 days from issue until arrival in the EU. The 21-day rabies wait must also be complete before travel.

Do cats need the EU health certificate too?

Yes, cats need the same certificate. No tapeworm treatment is required for France or most EU countries.

Is USDA endorsement required?

Yes for pets from the USA: a USDA-accredited vet issues the certificate, then USDA APHIS endorses it electronically before departure.

Puppies and kittens must be at least 15 weeks old on arrival. You may travel with up to 5 pets under these personal rules.

Official sources

European Commission — pet movement: food.ec.europa.eu/animals/movement-pets_en
USDA APHIS pet travel: aphis.usda.gov/pet-travel

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