Moving Pets to the Netherlands: EU Import Rules, Breed Bans, and Schiphol Airport

The Netherlands is a common destination for UK expats and international professionals, particularly in the Amsterdam and The Hague areas. Pet import is governed by EU Regulation 576/2013, making it one of the more streamlined EU destinations.

UK to Netherlands: AHC Requirement

Post-Brexit, all UK pets travelling to the Netherlands need an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) issued by an Official Veterinarian within 10 days of travel. The EU pet passport is no longer valid for UK-origin journeys.

The AHC is valid for the entry journey and for 4 months of travel within the EU thereafter.

Documentation Summary

Netherlands Breed Legislation

The Netherlands abolished its national Pit Bull ban in 2008, making it one of the few EU countries with no national breed-specific legislation. The Dutch approach is behaviour-based: a dog is assessed individually if there is evidence of dangerous behaviour.

However, some municipalities in the Netherlands have retained local restrictions. Check with the local municipality (gemeente) in your area before assuming all breeds are unrestricted. Amsterdam and Rotterdam do not currently enforce breed bans, but smaller municipalities vary.

KLM and Amsterdam Schiphol for Pet Transport

Schiphol Airport (AMS) is one of Europe’s best-equipped airports for live animal handling. KLM’s cargo programme (KLM Cargo / Martinair Cargo) is widely regarded as a quality option for pet transport within Europe and intercontinentally. KLM accepts pets in cabin (small animals under 8 kg in carrier) and as cargo.

Schiphol’s live animal centre handles dogs, cats, and other species. Pre-notification is required for all cargo shipments.

Cost Estimate (UK to Netherlands)

Sources: EU Regulation 576/2013; APHA UK pet travel guidance; Dutch Ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality (LNV). Data current as of May 2026.