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EU Animal Health Certificates

EU Animal Health Certificates

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The Vet 2 Go

Travel Safely with your pet

The Vet 2 Go EU animal health certificates service is designed to simplify the process of traveling with pets across Europe by ensuring compliance with all necessary health regulations. Our experienced vet ensures that your animal has all the necessary examinations and vaccinations prior to issuing the required certificates that confirm your pet's fitness for travel.

 It's important for pet owners to plan ahead, as obtaining an AHC involves scheduling a veterinary appointment and ensuring all health requirements are met well before departure.

This service not only saves pet owners time and stress but also guarantees that all documentation is accurate and up-to-date, reducing the risk of complications at borders. By prioritising both the health of your pet and adherence to EU regulations, The Vet 2 Go empowers families to embark on their journeys with confidence, knowing their furry companions are well-prepared for a safe adventure together.


Please, download the AHC APPLICATION FORM below.

Free Download of an Animal Health Certificate Application Form HERE.pdf

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The Vet 2 Go

If you're traveling from the UK to the EU or Northern Ireland with your pet, you'll need an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) issued by an official veterinarian. This certificate confirms that your pet meets EU entry requirements, including microchip verification, rabies vaccination compliance, and a health check.

The cost for issuing an AHC, including the veterinary health check and completion of the official paperwork, is £100. 

If additional vaccinations or treatments (such as tapeworm treatment for dogs traveling to certain countries) are required, we’ll discuss those with you beforehand.

We can offer rabies vaccination for the cost of £80 and an Urgent Animal Health Certificate (prepared for less than 10 days) for the price of £180.

The AHC is valid for 10 days for entry into the EU, then for onward travel within the EU for up to four months. If you're making frequent trips, we can also discuss the option of obtaining an EU Pet Passport in certain countries to simplify future travel.

 We understand pet travel can be complex and frustrating, but we are here to make it stress-free for you. Let us know your departure date, and we’ll ensure your pet’s documents are ready in time.

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The Vet 2 Go

Frequently Asked Questions

Animal Health Certificates (AHCs) for EU Travel

Planning to take your pet abroad? Here’s everything you need to know about getting an Animal Health Certificate for travel to the EU.

1. What is an Animal Health Certificate (AHC)?

An AHC is an official veterinary document that allows your dog, cat, or ferret to travel from Great Britain to the EU or Northern Ireland. It replaces the old EU pet passport system for GB-issued documents.

2. When do I need an AHC?

You need a new AHC for each trip from Great Britain to the EU or Northern Ireland. It must be issued within 10 days of your travel date.

3. How long is an AHC valid?

  • 10 days for entry into the EU
  • 4 months for onward travel within the EU and re-entry into Great Britain

4. What are the requirements for an AHC?

To issue an AHC, your pet must:

  • Be microchipped
  • Have a valid rabies vaccination (administered at least 21 days before travel)
  • Be at least 12 weeks old

5. Do I need a new certificate for every trip?

Yes. AHCs are single-use documents. You’ll need a new certificate each time you travel to the EU or Northern Ireland with your pet.

6. How far in advance should I book an appointment?

We recommend booking your AHC appointment at least 3–4 weeks in advance of your travel date to ensure all requirements are met in time.

7. What do I need for the appointment?

Please have the following documents ready :

  • Proof of microchipping 
  • Vaccination card
  • Rabies vaccination history or certificate
  • Your travel details (including destination and entry point)
  • Have a completed Animal Health Certificate Application Form (free to download from our website above)

8. How long does the appointment take?

The appointment usually takes around 15 - 30 minutes. We’ll review all the documentation and ensure we have everything needed for issuing the certificate.

9. Can I take more than one pet?

Yes, up to 5 pets can travel with one owner under the same travel purpose and an AHC (non-commercial).

10. What countries does the AHC cover?

AHCs are valid for entry into all EU countries and Northern Ireland. If you plan to visit non-EU countries, additional requirements and taxes will apply.

11. How much does an AHC cost?

Prices vary depending on the number of pets and complexity of the paperwork. Please contact us for a personalised quote.

12. Who can issue an AHC?

Only an Official Veterinarian (OV) registered with DEFRA can issue an Animal Health Certificate. All AHCs at The Vet 2 Go are issued by qualified OV.

13. What about returning to Great Britain?

To re-enter GB, your pet will need:

  • Microchip
  • Valid rabies vaccination
  • An AHC or EU/NI pet passport
  • A tapeworm treatment administered by veterinarian between 24 and 120 hours before entering United Kingdom (for dogs only), if required

If you're planning travel with your pet, don't leave it to the last minute—get in touch with us today to arrange your AHC.

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