Pet Transport from the UK to Italy: Post-Brexit Requirements
Thousands of British expats and retirees move to Italy every year, and many bring their dogs and cats with them. Post-Brexit, the process has an extra layer of paperwork compared to pre-2021 travel – but it is still very manageable if you plan ahead.
The Key Change Post-Brexit
Before Brexit, a UK-issued EU Pet Passport covered everything. Now, you need an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) for every trip to an EU country. The AHC is only valid for:
- One entry into the EU (it cannot be reused)
- 10 days from the date of issue to entry
- 4 months for return to the UK after EU entry
If you travel frequently, you will need a new AHC each time.
What You Need
- Microchip (ISO 11784/11785) – implanted before or at the same time as the first rabies vaccine
- Rabies vaccination – valid, administered at least 21 days before first travel if a new vaccine
- AHC – issued by a UK Official Veterinarian (OV) within 10 days of arrival in Italy
- Tapeworm treatment (dogs only) – 1 to 5 days before arrival, recorded in the AHC
Finding an OV in the UK
Not all vets are Official Veterinarians. Use APHA’s Find a Vet service (apha.defra.gov.uk) to locate an OV near you. Book well in advance, especially in summer when demand spikes.
Routes into Italy
By air: Rome Fiumicino (FCO) and Milan Malpensa (MXP) are the main gateways with veterinary inspection posts. Most long-haul pets travel as checked baggage or in cargo.
By Eurotunnel/ferry: Pets travelling via the Channel Tunnel or ferry to France and then driving to Italy are technically exiting and entering the EU once – at the French border. The same AHC rules apply.
Italian Registration
Once in Italy, dogs must be registered with the local ASL (Azienda Sanitaria Locale) veterinary department. Annual rabies vaccination is mandatory in most regions. Your dog will receive an Italian tattoo or collar registration number.
Travelling Back to the UK
When returning from Italy to the UK, your pet needs:
- A microchip
- Tapeworm treatment (dogs only, given 1 to 5 days before UK re-entry)
- A valid rabies vaccination
No AHC is needed to enter the UK, but you may be asked to show vaccination records.
This guide is accurate as of May 2026. Always check the latest APHA guidance at gov.uk/bring-pet-to-great-britain before travelling.