PetPass ReadyBringing your dog to the USA from Europe or the UK in 2026
Last updated: September 6, 2026 — verified against official sources (European Commission, USDA APHIS, UK GOV.UK, US CDC).
Since August 2024, every dog entering the USA needs a CDC Dog Import Form. For dogs that have only been in dog rabies-free or low-risk countries (all EU and UK countries) during the past 6 months, this form is the only CDC requirement — no titer test, no quarantine, no federal health certificate. Dogs must be at least 6 months old, microchipped and healthy at arrival. Cats have it even easier: no CDC form at all.
The 5 steps
- CDC Dog Import Form (dogs only) — Complete it online and keep the emailed receipt (print or phone). The receipt is valid 6 months — fill the form a few days before travel; the day of departure also works. One form per dog. Free.
- Dog at least 6 months old — CDC minimum age at entry. If your dog has been in a high-risk country in the past 6 months, stricter rules apply (rabies titer).
- Microchip readable with a universal scanner — Required to identify your dog; most ISO chips qualify.
- Vet health certificate ≤ 10 days (airline requirement) — No federal certificate is needed from EU/UK, but airlines require a recent health certificate — check your carrier.
- Dog must appear healthy at arrival — CDC can refuse entry to dogs showing signs of disease. Carry all original documents.
Country Packs — Dog & Cat (PDF, $12) →
Frequently asked questions
Do cats need the CDC form?
No — the CDC Dog Import Form applies to dogs only. Cats just need routine airline requirements.
What if I am only transiting the USA?
The CDC form is still required for transit stops in the USA, even if your final destination is elsewhere.
My dog was vaccinated in Europe — does it need a titer test?
No. For dogs that have only been in dog rabies-free or low-risk countries (all of the EU and UK) in the past 6 months, the CDC requires only the Dog Import Form — no titer. A titer is required only if your dog has been in a CDC high-risk country.
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