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.
Some national details were not available to us. We have checked the main requirements against official sources. We confirm the rest for your exact route and dates when you enquire.
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.
Portugal: what is specific to the country
- EU/AHC rules. The DGAV page covers entry from the UK (non-EU) and says new rules applied from 22 April 2026.
- Lisbon airport's travellers' point of entry is closed 00:00-06:00; Porto's is closed 23:00-07:00.
- Non-compliant pets are sent back at the holder's cost.
- Potentially dangerous breeds have a separate DGAV page (not read).
Returning from Portugal 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
Madeira and the Azores are separately listed by GOV.UK (Part 1) for return.
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 Portugal.
The full rules for leaving and entering Great Britain: leaving the UK · bringing a pet into the UK.
Official sources (read 20 October 2026): Portuguese DGAV - Entering Portugal from a non-EU country (includes the UK) · Portuguese DGAV - Travelling with pets (sedation warning)