Pet Transport from Ireland to the UK: Post-Brexit Rules for Irish Pet Owners
The Brexit Change for Irish Pet Owners
Before Brexit, Ireland and the UK were both EU members. Travel between them (including pets) used EU Pet Passports. Since 1 January 2021, Great Britain (England, Scotland, Wales) left the EU pet travel system. The change affects Irish pet owners travelling to the British mainland.
Northern Ireland is different: Travel from Ireland to Northern Ireland still falls under the Windsor Framework, which means EU rules continue to apply. EU Pet Passports are accepted for Ireland-to-Northern-Ireland travel.
What Your Pet Needs for Great Britain
- Microchip – ISO 11784/11785
- Rabies vaccination – current, at least 21 days old
- Tapeworm treatment (dogs) – administered by a vet 1 to 5 days before arrival in Great Britain, recorded in the AHC
- GB Animal Health Certificate (GB AHC) – issued by an Irish government-authorised vet within 10 days of travel
GB AHC: Who Issues It
Only government-authorised vets (OVs – Official Veterinarians in Irish terminology) can issue the GB AHC. Your regular vet may or may not be an OV. Contact Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) or check veterinary practices in your area – many general practices have vets who can issue the AHC.
DAFM website: gov.ie/agriculture
Ferry Travel from Ireland to Great Britain
Most Irish pet owners take their pets by ferry. Approved approved points of entry for pets include:
- Dublin Port to Holyhead (Ireland to Wales)
- Rosslare Europort to Pembroke (Ireland to Wales)
Irish Ferries and Stena Line both operate these routes and accept pets. Pets typically stay in the vehicle on the car deck (for short crossings) or in dedicated pet areas on overnight sailings.
Bring the GB AHC and keep it accessible at the border.
Verify current DAFM and UK government requirements before travel. Information accurate as of May 2026.