If you are considering relocating to France with your beloved furry friend, it's essential to be well-informed about the entry points and border controls for bringing pets into the country. France has specific regulations in place to ensure the safety and well-being of animals, as well as prevent the spread of diseases. Pets must have an ISO-compliant microchip and be vaccinated against rabies at least 21 days before travel.

Obtaining a health certificate from your licensed veterinarian containing vaccination and health details is advisable. Additional permits or tests may be required based on your origin. Adhering to these regulations ensures you and your pet a smooth transition to France.

Here's what you need to know:

Rules for Bringing Your Pet to France

If you are planning to move to France and want to bring your furry friend along, it's essential to be aware of the rules and regulations regarding pet transportation. Here are French guidelines that you need to keep in mind when bringing your pet to France as of 08/17/2023:

Entry Points

When traveling to France with a pet, there are several ways to enter the country. The most common options include:
1. Air Travel: Many international airports across France, including Charles de Gaulle in Paris, provide facilities for pet arrivals and departures. It's advisable to contact your preferred airline well in advance to inquire about their specific pet travel policies and requirements.
2. Ferry or Train: If you travel to France with your pet from the United Kingdom or other nearby countries, you can consider taking a ferry or train. Major ferry ports like Calais, Dunkirk, and Dieppe have designated areas for pet arrivals and departures. Similarly, several trains from neighboring European countries allow pets on board.

Border Controls

You must comply with specific border control regulations when bringing pets into France. Here are the key requirements:
1. Microchip: Your pet must have a microchip with a unique identification number. This microchip should comply with the ISO standard 11784 or 11785. It's essential to ensure that the microchip is inserted before any required vaccinations or blood tests.
2. Rabies Vaccination: Dogs, cats, and ferrets over three months old must be vaccinated against rabies. This vaccination should be administered after the microchip is implanted and at least 21 days before the travel date. Keep the vaccination certificate, as it will be required at border controls. Bring your pet's current vaccination records and all proper documentation.
3. EU Pet Passport: To travel with your pet to France and around the European Community (EU), you will need an EU Pet Passport issued by an authorized veterinarian in Europe. If you are arriving in France from the USA, your pet’s health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian satisfies all FDA requirements for travel from the USA to France. The pet passport is for animals that originate outside the USA and confirms that your pet is microchipped and vaccinated against rabies. It also includes details of any additional vaccinations or treatments.
4. Documentation: When crossing the French border, you may be asked to present additional documents, such as

• proof of ownership, such as a bill of sale,

• a health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian. The health certificate must be completed within ten days of travel and include vital information regarding your pet's health status. Apart from the rabies vaccine, France has no compulsory pet vaccinations. However, it is recommended to ensure your pet's routine vaccinations, such as distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, and kennel cough, are up-to-date before traveling. These vaccinations will help protect your pet's health while in France.

• a declaration of non-commercial movement. These requirements can vary depending on your country of origin, so it's best to check with the French embassy or consulate in your home country for specific guidelines.

Travel Container and Conditions

Your pet must be in an appropriate carrier that complies with international standards during transportation. The container should have enough space for your pet to sit, lie, and turn around comfortably. Adequate ventilation and secure locking mechanisms are also necessary. Additionally, providing water and familiar bedding in the carrier is advisable to ensure your pet's well-being during the journey. Click here for USDA rules.

Call your Airline!

There is nothing like getting on the horn with your airline reservation agent to ensure your furry friend is ready. Please be sure to do this. There are too many stories flying around the internet about people who get turned away at check-in because they didn’t prepare the proper documents to board their international flight. For a list of pet-friendly airlines that allow pets in-cabin on international flights, click here.