Moving pets from the US to the UK? International pet transport regulations can be complex, but with the right preparation, the process becomes much easier. This simple guide covers all requirements for hassle free pet travel from the US to the UK.
Let’s get started!
Moving Pets from US to the UK - Rules for Dogs, Cats & Ferrets
1st Step: Microchip Identification
Before any vaccinations, your pet must have a microchip implanted. The microchip must comply with ISO 11784/11785 standards. If not, you will need to bring your own microchip reader to ensure it can be read upon entry into the UK or get in touch with the veterinary officials to get a reader to read a pet's microchip at arrival port.
- Requirement: ISO-compliant microchip.
- Timing: Must be implanted before rabies vaccination on UK Health Certificate.
2nd Step: Rabies Vaccination and Certificate
Rabies vaccination is mandatory for pets entering the UK as per EU 576/2013 Annex III. The vaccination must be administered after microchipping, and at least 21 days must pass before travel.
Key Points:
- Rabies vaccination should be done after microchipping.
- A minimum waiting period of 21 days is required
- The rabies certificate must include the pet's microchip number, vaccination date, vaccine manufacturer, and product name.
3rd Step: UK Pet Health Certificates
Non-Commercial Health Certificate (Animal Health Certificate)
- Applicable for:
- 5 or fewer pets: traveling with the owner or designated person within 5 days.
- 6 or more pets over 6 months old traveling for events (competitions, exhibitions, etc.) within 5 days of the owner/designated person.
- Valid for 30 days after USDA veterinarian signs it; must be endorsed by APHIS within 10 days of UK arrival.
- Exemption : No APHIS endorsement needed for military-issued certificates.
- Declaration : Must be completed by the owner/designated person and accompany the pet.
Pre-Check Requirement
- For Non-Commercial Pets: Pre-check required at Heathrow Airport (HARC) before USDA endorsement.
The Animal Health Certificate (AHC) is issued in Great Britain for travel to the EU and return, valid for up to 4 months.
Commercial Health Certificate
- Applicable for:
- Pets traveling more than 5 days before or after the owner or designated person
- 6 or more pets traveling together, regardless of the owner's timing.
- Pets changing ownership or intended for resale in the UK.
- Valid for 48 hours after USDA veterinarian signs it; must be endorsed by APHIS within 48 hours of departure.
- Exemption : Military-issued certificates don’t require APHIS endorsement.
Designated Person: A family member, friend, or authorized individual traveling with the pet.
4th Step: APHIS Endorsement of UK Health Certificate
After the USDA Accredited Veterinarian signs the UK Health Certificate, have it endorsed by the USDA APHIS Veterinary Services. For non-commercial certificates, endorsement must occur within 10 days of the pet's UK arrival. Commercial certificates can be endorsed at any time after signing.
Contact your local USDA APHIS office for details on the process and fees.
5th Step: Tapeworm Treatment (Dogs Only)
Dogs traveling to the UK must receive a tapeworm treatment between one and five days before arrival. The treatment should be administered by a licensed veterinarian and recorded in the AHC.
- Requirement
- Tapeworm treatment for dogs (Echinococcus multilocularis).
- Administered 1-5 days before travel.
Pet Bird Travel from US to the UK
- Identification : Pet birds must have an ID (clip, leg band, microchip, or tag).
- Post-Entry Restrictions : Birds must be moved to a household and cannot participate in events for 30 days after entering the UK.
- Isolation/Testing : Birds may need isolation or Avian Influenza testing before traveling.
- Health Certificate: A USDA Accredited Veterinarian must issue a health certificate within 48 hours of departure.
Preparation Options:
- 30-Day Isolation : Pet birds must have an ID (clip, leg band, microchip, or tag).
- Avian Influenza Vaccination : Birds must be moved to a household and cannot participate in events for 30 days after entering the UK.
- Isolation and Testing : Birds may need isolation or Avian Influenza testing before traveling.
- Post-Introduction Quarantine : Arrangements for a 30-day quarantine in the UK.
Endorsement: Contact the USDA APHIS office for health certificate endorsement.
Other Pets
For pets not covered by specific travel requirements, APHIS has not received official details from the destination country. We suggest reaching out to the relevant government authorities of the country you are traveling to for further guidance.
Airlines and Points of Entry for Pet Travel from US to the UK
Here are some approved airlines and points of entry for pet relocation from US to the UK:
- Aegean Airlines - London Heathrow
- Air Canada - Manchester
- Air France KLM - Edinburgh, Glasgow, Heathrow
- British Airways - London Heathrow, Gatwick
- Delta Air Lines - Edinburgh, London Gatwick, Heathrow, Manchester
- Emirates - Newcastle, London Gatwick, Heathrow
- Lufthansa - Edinburgh, Glasgow, Heathrow, Manchester
- Qatar Airways - Edinburgh, London Gatwick, Heathrow, Manchester
- Singapore Airlines - London Heathrow, Manchester
- Qatar Airways - Edinburgh, London Gatwick, Heathrow, Manchester
- Turkish Airlines - Edinburgh, London Heathrow
Pet Crate Specifications
Pet crates must comply with International Air Transport Association (IATA) standards to ensure the safety and comfort of your pet.
Crate Requirements:
- Spacious enough for the pet to stand, turn around, and lie down.
- Proper ventilation on all sides.
- Secure locking system.
Learn: How to Choose a Dog Carrier for Long Distance Pet Travel?
Quarantine Regulations
If all requirements are met, your pet will not be subject to quarantine upon arrival in the UK. However, non-compliance can result in quarantine at the owner's expense.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During Pet Transport
- Incorrect Microchip: Using a non-ISO compliant microchip without a compatible scanner.
- Rabies Vaccination Timing: Not allowing a full 21 days post-vaccination before travel.
- Incomplete AHC: Missing or incorrect information on the Animal Health Certificate.
- Unapproved Travel Routes: Using a non-designated point of entry or unapproved airline.
- Tapeworm Treatment Missed: Not administering the tapeworm treatment to dogs within the required timeframe.
Tips for a Smooth Pet Travel From US to the UK
- Plan Ahead: Start preparing at least a month before travel.
- Check Airline Policies: Each airline has specific requirements for pet travel.
- Organize Documentation: Keep all documents, including the AHC, rabies certificate, and microchip information, in one place for easy access at customs.
- Visit the Veterinarian: Schedule a pre-travel checkup to ensure your pet is healthy and travel-ready.
Final Words on Pet Transport from US to the UK
Moving pets from the US to the UK involves careful planning and strict compliance with UK pet transport regulations. By following the step-by-step guide and preparing all necessary documents, you can ensure a hassle-free journey for your beloved pet. Remember to check for the latest updates from official sources to stay informed of any changes in regulations.
Choose James Cargo for Pet Moving from the US to the UK
James Cargo Services specializes in pet moving, offering comprehensive solutions for relocating pets from the US to the UK. As experienced pet movers, they handle all aspects of your pet transport.
Their services include:
- Pet Travel Planning: Assessing your pet's needs and coordinating travel arrangements.
- Documentation Assistance: Managing necessary paperwork, including health certificates and import permits.
- Transportation Arrangements: Organizing safe and comfortable travel via approved airlines and routes.
- Customs Clearance: Ensuring compliance with UK regulations for a hassle-free entry.
FAQs on Pet Shipping from US to the UK
- Can I use a pet passport instead of an AHC?
No, the UK requires an Animal Health Certificate for pets entering from the US. EU pet passports are not valid for entry from non-EU countries. - How long is the Animal Health Certificate valid?
- 10 Days for entering the UK.
- 4 Months for travel within the EU and return to the U.S.
- What if my pet’s microchip is not ISO compliant?
You must carry your own microchip scanner or have your pet re-microchipped with an ISO-compatible chip. - Do all pets need tapeworm treatment?
No, only dogs require tapeworm treatment within 1-5 days before entering the UK.