Moving to Slovakia with Pets: EU Rules Made Simple
Slovakia joined the EU in 2004 and the Schengen Area in 2007, which makes it one of the simpler EU destinations for pet travel. The rules are standard EU requirements – no unusual local additions that catch people off-guard.
From EU Countries: Standard EU Pet Passport
Travelling from Germany, Austria, Czech Republic, Hungary, or any EU member? You need:
- ISO-standard microchip (15-digit, ISO 11784/11785)
- Valid EU Pet Passport
- Rabies vaccination that is current (administered at least 21 days after the first-ever microchip implant)
The EU Pet Passport covers everything – keep it accessible at border crossings.
From Non-EU Countries (Including the UK)
For pets arriving from outside the EU:
- Microchip (ISO 11784/11785 standard)
- Rabies vaccination – current, administered at least 21 days before first EU entry
- Animal Health Certificate (AHC) – issued by an official government vet within 10 days of entry, endorsed by your national authority (APHA for UK, USDA for USA)
- Tapeworm treatment (dogs only) – 1 to 5 days before entering any EU state
Slovakia follows the standard EU framework – no additional national requirements beyond these.
Bratislava vs Vienna Entry
Many people moving to western Slovakia use Vienna Airport (VIE) rather than Bratislava Airport (BTS). Vienna has a larger and better-equipped veterinary border inspection post. If your pet is arriving as air cargo, VIE may offer more handling options. BTS is perfectly adequate for cabin-carried or accompanied baggage pets.
Slovak Registration
Dogs must be registered in Slovakia within 30 days of taking up residence. The registration is handled by your local municipality (obec or mestska cast). Annual rabies vaccination is compulsory under Slovak law for dogs.
Useful Contacts
- State Veterinary and Food Administration of the Slovak Republic (SVPS): svps.sk
- EU Pet Travel Rules: ec.europa.eu/food/animals/movement-pets
Information current as of May 2026. Verify with SVPS before travel.