Pet Transport from UK to France: AHC, Tapeworm Treatment and the 2026 Rules

France and the UK share one of the world’s busiest cross-channel travel routes. With pets, the process has added steps post-Brexit, but it’s still very manageable with a bit of advance planning.

What your pet needs

Microchip - ISO 11784/11785, implanted before or on the same date as the rabies vaccination.

Rabies vaccination - must be current. First vaccination requires a 21-day waiting period before EU entry is permitted. Annual boosters or 3-year boosters depending on the product used.

Animal Health Certificate (AHC) - issued by an APHA-authorised Official Veterinarian in the UK, endorsed by APHA. Valid for 10 days from the vet examination date. Time the appointment carefully: the AHC must be valid when you cross the border, and dogs need their tapeworm treatment 1-5 days before crossing (not before the vet appointment, but before the French border).

Tapeworm treatment (dogs only) - praziquantel, administered by a vet, 1-5 days before arrival in France. Ask your OV to record the treatment on or alongside the AHC.

Channel Tunnel

Eurotunnel Le Shuttle allows pets to stay in the car with you for the 35-minute crossing. You’ll go through DEFRA/Border Force checks at the UK end and French customs at Coquelles. Make sure all documentation is ready and accessible for inspection at both ends. Pet microchips are scanned.

Ferry routes

Dover-Calais, Portsmouth-Le Havre, Portsmouth-Caen, Newhaven-Dieppe, and other routes accept pets. Cats and dogs are typically kept in the car or in designated on-deck pet areas. Check each ferry company’s specific pet policy as they vary.

Air

Direct UK-France flights are short - Paris, Nice, Bordeaux, Lyon. Most airlines require dogs to travel as cargo for international flights. Air France, British Airways, and easyJet (select routes) all operate the route.