Bringing your dog to Norway from the USA in 2026 (EU rules + tapeworm)
Last updated: September 6, 2026: verified against official sources.
Norway is not an EU member but applies the EU pet travel rules for entry, with one extra requirement that catches people out: dogs must receive a tapeworm (Echinococcus) treatment 24 to 120 hours before arrival, the same rule as the UK and Ireland. Cats follow the standard requirements only. Plan the tapeworm appointment so it falls in the exact 24-120 hour window before your flight lands.
Norway adds one requirement
Norway is not an EU member but applies the EU pet travel rules, plus a tapeworm treatment for dogs between 24 and 120 hours before arrival, from every country including the EU.
24-120h · dogs only
The 5 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.
- Tapeworm treatment for dogs (24-120h before arrival): Dogs must be treated against tapeworm (Echinococcus) by a veterinarian 24 to 120 hours before arriving in Norway: this applies to dogs arriving from ALL countries, including the USA. Cats are exempt.
- Arrive via an approved EU point of entry: All main EU airports are approved for pets from the USA (Brussels, Stockholm Arlanda, Vienna…). Oslo Airport (OSL) is the main approved entry point.
Frequently asked questions
Is the tapeworm rule really needed from the USA?
Yes, Norway requires the tapeworm treatment for all dogs entering the country, regardless of origin country.
Do cats need the tapeworm treatment?
No, the tapeworm requirement applies to dogs only.
Is Norway in the EU?
No, but it applies the EU pet travel rules (Regulation (EU) 2026/131, in force since 22 April 2026) for entry from third countries, plus its own tapeworm rule.
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