On April 22, the European Union introduced updated rules for the non-commercial transport of pets from third countries. This was reported by “Glavkom,” citing the State Service of Ukraine for Food Safety and Consumer Protection.
The State Service emphasized that the key requirements for importing animals into the EU remain unchanged. These include mandatory microchip identification, up-to-date rabies vaccination, an antibody titer test, and an international veterinary certificate. The new rules clarify the procedures for document processing and animal transport.
In particular, the veterinary certificate must now specify the animal’s owner, even if the transport is carried out by an authorized person. Such transport is permitted only within five days before or after the owner’s trip.
The EU has also clarified the rules for rabies vaccination. The antibody titer test result must be obtained at least 90 days prior to the issuance of the veterinary certificate. Additionally, new forms of accompanying documents for the transport of animals have been approved.
For domestic birds, an additional declaration has been introduced confirming the conditions of their care upon arrival in the destination country.
The State Service of Ukraine for Food Safety and Consumer Protection noted that the new rules do not impose additional restrictions on pet owners but make the procedures clearer. Transition periods are provided for adapting to the new requirements. For dogs, cats, and ferrets, they will remain in effect until March 31, 2027.
