Moving Pets to France: Animal Health Certificates, Breed Restrictions, and Paris Airport Process
France is the most popular destination for UK expats in continental Europe - and the post-Brexit documentation requirements are the main new hurdle. The process is clear once you know the steps.
UK to France: The AHC Process
The Animal Health Certificate (AHC) has replaced the EU pet passport for UK-origin travel since 2021. Key points:
- Issued by an Official Veterinarian (OV) or an APHA-registered vet in the UK
- Must be completed within 10 days of travel
- Valid for entry into France and onward travel within the EU for 4 months
- Required for every trip - one AHC per journey
Book your OV appointment in advance. APHA endorsement (for some routes and formats) takes 3-7 working days, though many modern AHC formats do not require separate APHA endorsement. Confirm with your OV.
France’s Breed Restriction Categories
France operates a two-category system:
| Category | Description | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Category 1 | Attack dogs (Pit Bull-type, Boerboel) | Import prohibited. Cannot legally be kept in France. |
| Category 2 | Guard/defence dogs (Rottweiler, Tosa, Am. Staff) | Allowed but: owner permit required, neutering mandatory for some, muzzle and lead in public, owner must be over 18 and have no criminal record |
Staffordshire Bull Terriers are NOT in either category in France. They may be kept without restrictions. This differs from the UK’s classification under the Dangerous Dogs Act.
Entry at Charles de Gaulle or Orly
Pets entering France by air arrive through Charles de Gaulle (CDG) or Orly (ORY). Border inspection post veterinary staff carry out checks. Declare your pet on arrival. The AHC must be presented in its original form.
Travelling by Eurostar or Ferry
Pets can travel by Eurostar from London St Pancras (cat and dog in carrier). Eurostar has specific pet policies - check current booking procedures. Ferry operators (P&O, DFDS, Brittany Ferries) allow pets on cabin-equipped routes. All routes require the same AHC documentation.
Cost Estimate (UK to France)
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| OV appointment + AHC | £150-250 |
| Airline cabin or cargo fee | £50-400 |
| Total | ~£200-650 |
Sources: French Ministry of Agriculture (DGAL); European Commission Regulation 576/2013; APHA UK pet travel guidance. Data current as of May 2026.