Pet Transport from France to United States
Planning to move your pet from France to United States? Get Your Quote
Pet transport from France to United States is a moderately complex route. The documentation is specific and there are a few stages to work through, but families who plan ahead get their pets there without major issues.
At minimum, your pet needs a microchip (ISO 11784/11785 standard), a current rabies vaccination, and a government-endorsed health certificate issued close to your travel date. Allow 6-10 weeks from starting preparation to travel day.
No general quarantine for dogs and cats, but dogs must meet the CDC rabies vaccination requirements. Puppies under 6 months from certain countries face additional rules. Use our step-by-step guide below to track what you need to do and when.
Step-by-Step Process
Get your pet microchipped (ISO 11784/11785)
Before any vaccinations. Must be done first.
Responsible: Your veterinarian
Rabies vaccination
At least 21 days before travel (after microchip)
Responsible: Your veterinarian
Obtain health certificate / veterinary clearance
Within 10 days of travel (check destination-specific requirements)
Responsible: Official veterinarian
Book IATA-compliant flight and arrange pet cargo/cabin booking
2-4 weeks before travel. Confirm pet space availability.
Responsible: You (or your pet transport agent)
Travel day: arrive early, present all documentation
3-4 hours before departure for cargo pets
Responsible: You + airline cargo desk
United States Import Requirements
What United States requires for pets entering the country.
Microchip
Required (Universal scanner detectable). MUST be implanted BEFORE rabies vaccination or vaccine is considered invalid
Rabies Vaccination
Required
Rabies Titre Test
None
Quarantine
Quarantine may be shortened if dog receives US-licensed rabies vaccine and meets titre requirements during quarantine
Import Permit
No formal import permit. CDC Dog Import Form is the registration mechanism.
Health Certificate
No standalone health certificate requirement. The CDC certification forms include health attestation.
Exporting from France
What you need from France before your pet can leave.
Export Permit
No formal export permit. Health certificate and EU pet passport serve as documentation.
Cost Factors
Costs vary depending on pet size, transport method, and whether you use a transport agent.
- Airline cargo/cabin fees (varies by carrier, pet weight, and crate size)
- IATA-compliant travel crate (purchase or hire)
- Veterinary fees (vaccinations, health certificate, microchip)
- Government endorsement/USDA endorsement fee (if applicable)
- Pet transport agent fee (if using a relocation service)
Important Warnings
Frequently Asked Questions
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