Bringing a Pet to Norway: EEA Rules, Tapeworm Treatment and What to Expect

Norway is not an EU member but is a full member of the European Economic Area (EEA) and applies the EU pet travel rules. The Norwegian Food Safety Authority (Mattilsynet) is the competent authority for live animal imports.

From EU/EEA countries

Dogs and cats from EU or EEA countries need an EU pet passport, ISO microchip, and current rabies vaccination. Dogs must also be treated against Echinococcus multilocularis tapeworm, unless travelling from Denmark, Finland, Iceland, or Sweden. The treatment (praziquantel-based) must be given by a vet 1 to 5 days before arrival and documented in the pet passport.

From outside the EU/EEA

Pets from non-listed countries need: ISO microchip, rabies vaccination (after microchip), a rabies antibody titre test at an EU-approved lab showing at least 0.5 IU/ml, and a three-month wait after the blood sample. They also need an official health certificate in the EU AHC format, endorsed by the government veterinary authority in the origin country.

UK-origin pets (post-Brexit) follow the third-country pathway: microchip, rabies vaccine, titre test with 3-month wait, APHA-endorsed health certificate, and tapeworm treatment for dogs.

Tapeworm treatment

This is a strict requirement for dogs from most origin countries. Praziquantel at a minimum dose of 5mg/kg must be administered. The vet records the treatment in the health certificate. Norway checks this consistently at the border, so do not omit it.

Breed bans

Norway has breed-specific legislation banning the American Pit Bull Terrier and four other breeds. Check the current list with Mattilsynet before travel if you have a large or guardian-type breed.

Practical note

Norway has long winters. Airlines serving Oslo (OSL) may apply cold-weather embargoes for live animal cargo from November to March. Confirm with your carrier before booking a winter journey.