PetPass ReadyBringing your dog or cat to Portugal from the USA in 2026
Last updated: September 6, 2026 — verified against official sources (European Commission, USDA APHIS, UK GOV.UK, US CDC).
Portugal applies the EU-wide pet travel rules. Whether you are moving to Lisbon or the Algarve, the paperwork is identical to the rest of the EU: microchip, rabies vaccination at least 21 days before travel, and a USDA-endorsed EU health certificate valid for 10 days.
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 (Paris CDG, Madrid, Frankfurt, Amsterdam Schiphol, Lisbon…).
Traveling to another country? France · Spain · Germany · Italy · Netherlands · Portugal · Ireland · Belgium · Sweden · Austria · Norway · United Kingdom · United States
Frequently asked questions
Are there additional checks in Portugal?
Standard EU border checks apply — have your endorsed certificate and rabies proof ready at arrival.
Can my dog enter through Lisbon airport?
Yes — Lisbon (LIS) is an approved EU point of entry for pets from the USA.
Do I need a vet appointment in Portugal before arrival?
No — the entire process is completed in the USA before you fly.
Up to 5 pets may travel under the personal pet rules; beyond that, commercial movement rules apply.
Official sources
- European Commission — pet movement: food.ec.europa.eu/animals/movement-pets_en
- USDA APHIS pet travel: aphis.usda.gov/pet-travel
- US CDC dog import: cdc.gov/importation/dogs.html
- UK GOV.UK: gov.uk/take-pet-abroad