Rules change. Entry rules for pets are set by each country and can change at short notice. This page was checked on 20 October 2026. Charter-A confirms the rules for your exact route and dates when you book, and you should always check the official source linked on the page.
The EU basics for a dog or cat leaving Great Britain
- Microchip first (before, or at the same time as, the rabies vaccination).
- Rabies vaccination at 12 weeks or older, then wait at least 21 full days.
- See an official vet (OV) for the AHC. Take proof of microchip date and vaccination history. Ask for the AHC when you book the vaccination.
- Travel within 10 days of the AHC being issued (day 1 is the issue date).
- Dogs to Finland, Ireland, Malta, Norway or Northern Ireland: tapeworm treatment 24-120 hours before entry.
- Arrive at a travellers' point of entry (a designated airport or port) and show the AHC, microchip and rabies proof.
Since 22 April 2026 people living in England, Scotland or Wales cannot use an EU pet passport to enter the EU: a GB-issued Animal Health Certificate is needed for each trip. Full EU rules.
France: what is specific to the country
- AHC rules as for the EU. Present the pet to customs on arrival (before leaving the international zone); the original health certificate is endorsed by customs for onward EU travel.
- Category 1 'attack' dogs cannot be imported; category 2 dogs only with pedigree proof. Bengal/Savannah cats without proof of breed are treated as hybrids and need an import permit.
- A dog from a third country must have at least one adult tooth to enter.
Returning from France to the UK
- GB-issued AHC can be used to return for 6 months from issue (and while rabies cover is valid), or a GB pet health certificate.
- Dogs: tapeworm treatment 24 hours to 5 days before arriving in Great Britain (unless coming directly from Finland, Ireland, Northern Ireland, Malta or Norway).
- Declaration signed; originals only; approved route (charter carrier and airport on the APHA list).
Good to know
UK pets are covered by the French third-country note. Ask French customs about private airfields.
Flying on a private charter means your pet stays with you in the cabin. We plan the arrival airport around the checks your route needs. See how it works or ask us for a quote to France.
The full rules for leaving and entering Great Britain: leaving the UK · bringing a pet into the UK.
Official sources (read 20 October 2026): French Ministry of Agriculture - Information note: import of pets into the EU from third countries (updated June 2026) · French Ministry of Agriculture - Rabies: information for the public and travellers (23 Jun 2026)