Bringing a Pet to Romania: EU Rules, ANSVSA and What to Prepare

Romania is an EU member state and applies the standard EU pet travel rules, enforced by the National Sanitary Veterinary and Food Safety Authority (ANSVSA).

From EU countries

Dogs and cats from EU countries need an EU pet passport, ISO microchip, and current rabies vaccination. The EU pet passport must show the vaccination date and the vaccinator’s stamp. Pets should travel on an approved route – most international arrivals come through Bucharest Henri Coanda Airport (OTP).

From outside the EU

Pets from non-EU countries (including post-Brexit UK) require: ISO microchip, rabies vaccination after microchip, a rabies antibody titre test (RNATT) showing at least 0.5 IU/ml from an EU-approved laboratory, and a three-month wait after the titre test blood sample. An official health certificate in the EU AHC format, endorsed by the origin country’s government veterinary authority, is also required.

UK pets need APHA endorsement on the health certificate. The EU AHC is valid for four months from signing or until the date of the rabies vaccination expiry, whichever is earlier, for repeat travel.

Arriving at Bucharest

OTP has a border inspection post for live animals. Veterinary officials from ANSVSA will inspect documentation. Keep health certificates and passport accessible at all times.

Breed considerations

Romania has historically had concerns about large breeds following public incidents. While national breed-specific legislation has been amended, confirm the current status with ANSVSA or a Romanian-based vet before travelling with a large guarding or fighting-type breed.

Practical note

Romanian winters are cold (Bucharest averages minus 3 to minus 5C in January). Airlines may apply cold-weather embargoes for live animal cargo on some routes in winter. Check with your carrier for seasonal restrictions.