Pet Transport from EU to USA 2026
Moving a pet from Europe to the United States is a common relocation for expats returning home or Americans who have been working in the EU. The USA’s approach to pet imports is notably different from Europe’s: the focus for dogs is rabies risk management through the CDC’s country classification system.
CDC dog import rules in plain terms
The USA classifies countries by rabies risk level. Most EU countries (Germany, France, the Netherlands, Spain, Italy, and others) are classified as low-risk, which means dogs from these countries face a simplified entry process.
For dogs arriving from low-risk countries only:
- Must be microchipped
- Must be at least 6 months old
- Must appear healthy on arrival
- Must have a valid rabies vaccination certificate if the dog has been vaccinated
If your dog has spent time in a high-risk country (which includes some Eastern European or non-EU countries) within the past 6 months, additional requirements apply including the DogBot reservation system and USDA APHIS-compliant documentation.
Health certificate for cats
Cats entering the USA do not face the same CDC requirements as dogs. A health certificate from an accredited vet issued within 10 days of travel is standard best practice and required by most airlines. US federal law does not mandate rabies vaccination for cat entry, but individual US states may require it within 30 days of arrival. Check your destination state’s requirements.
The health certificate process from EU countries
An official health certificate from an EU member state is typically endorsed by the national competent authority (for example, the DGAV in Portugal, DGAL in France, or LAVES in Germany). Airlines may require the endorsement as part of their cargo documentation.
In the USA, pets do not pass through a USDA inspection facility on arrival; they clear through US Customs and Border Protection along with their owner. For cargo arrivals, a licensed customs broker handles the process.
Airlines from Europe to the USA
Most major transatlantic carriers accept pets. Lufthansa, British Airways, Air France, KLM, and others operate cargo pet services. For smaller dogs and cats, some carriers permit in-cabin transport in economy. Contact your chosen airline well in advance.
Official sources:
- CDC dog import requirements: cdc.gov
- USDA APHIS dog import: aphis.usda.gov
- US CBP live animals: cbp.gov