Moving Abroad with a Pet in 2026: Here’s What to Start Preparing Now

With estimates that over 50% of households worldwide have a pet, it’s unsurprising that they form a huge part of moving plans. Often, pets are what hold us back from making that move – but it can be done!

A successful pet move requires early planning around vaccinations, microchipping, paperwork, travel logistics, and destination rules. Proper preparation protects your pet’s welfare and prevents delays or entry refusal.

Whether it be man’s best friend, a furry feline, or an attachment to an arachnid, moving abroad with a pet can feel overwhelming if you don’t know where to start. We break down what you need to know about moving abroad with pets.

Why Pet Relocation Takes Longer Than Expected

Relocating a pet is not as simple as booking a flight and putting them in a carrier. Countries treat animals as regulated imports, which means your pet must meet:

• Veterinary health standards
• Disease control regulations
• Import documentation requirements
• Airline transport rules
• Breed or species restrictions

Missing one step can lead to:

• Entry refusal
• Mandatory quarantine
• Significant fines

We recommend starting at least 4 to 6 months before your move to meet all requirement deadlines.

🏠 Before You Move: Early Preparation Steps

The pre-move stage is about compliance and preparation. Microchip, vaccinate, gather documents, and check destination laws months in advance.

1. Research Destination Pet Import Rules

Each country has its own system. For example:

• The UK Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) regulates pet entry into the UK
• Australia has strict biosecurity and quarantine laws
• Singapore requires import permits and health certification
• The United Arab Emirates has breed restrictions and vaccination requirements

Always check official government sources.

2. 

   Microchipping

Most countries require an ISO compliant microchip before vaccinations are recorded. Without it, vaccine history may be invalid.

For example:

• UK: It has been a legal requirement since April 2016 for all dogs over 8 weeks old to be microchipped and registered with updated contact details. Yet, as of June 2024, it is now mandatory for all owned cats (including indoor cats) to be microchipped if they are over 20 weeks old.

• European Union: Microchipping dogs is legally mandatory in 24 EU Member States and within 7 states for cats. Yet, for cross-border travel, an ISO-compliant chip and pet passport is required for dogs, cats, and ferrets.

• Australia: Microchipping is mandatory nationwide for both dogs and cats at the point of sale or transfer, though specific regulations vary by state.

• UAE: All cats and dogs entering the UAE must be microchipped and have a valid vaccination record to obtain an import permit.

‼️:  A microchip is ineffective if not registered. In almost all jurisdictions with mandatory laws, registration on a database with current contact details is required.

3. Vaccinations and Health Treatments

Common requirements include:

• Rabies vaccination (and antibody titre test for some destinations)
• Parasite treatments
• General health check by an official veterinarian

Timing matters, as some countries require vaccines months before travel.

4. Obtain Official Documentation

You may need:

• Veterinary health certificate
• Import permit
• Vaccination record
• Microchip registration
• Export paperwork

5. Check Breed/Species Restrictions

Some countries ban or restrict certain animals/breeds, such as:

Rules change, so always confirm with authorities.

✈️ During the Move: Travel Day Considerations

Of course, while travel safety is the priority, you will know your pet better than anyone. It’s important that your pet is appropriately catered for during the moving process. So, Approved crates, airline compliance, and methods to reduce stress are essential.

1. Use an Airline Approved Travel Crate

Your crate must:

• Meet airline size rules
• Allow standing and turning
• Be well ventilated
• Be clearly labelled

2. Avoid Sedation (if travelling by plane)

Most airlines and vets advise against sedating pets because it can affect breathing and circulation at altitude.

3. Prepare for the Journey

• Provide familiar bedding and toys
• Freeze water in a bowl so it melts gradually
• Exercise dogs before travel
• Keep feeding light before departure

4. Choose the Right Travel Option

Pets may travel:

• In the cabin, depending on size
• As excess baggage
• As manifest cargo

Professional relocation partners help choose the safest option.

🏡 After Arrival: Helping Your Pet Settle

Arrival does not mean the process is over. It is key to monitor health, manage stress, and register your pet locally.

1. 

   Post Arrival Veterinary Check

Visit a local vet soon after arrival to:

• Confirm health
• Update local registrations
• Understand parasite risks in the new country

2. Watch for Signs of Stress

We know that moving can be stressful, but a big change is stressful for animals, too! Be sure to look for:

• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy
• Hiding
• Digestive upset

These often improve with routine and reassurance.

3. Register Your Pet Locally

Some destinations require:

• Municipal registration
• Local microchip databases
• Pet insurance compliance

Summary

Moving overseas with a furry (or feathered!) friend can be confusing, especially with varying laws and regulations depending on destination.

However, with sufficient research, preparation, and consideration, you can ensure a smooth move overseas for the whole family – because pets are part of the family, too!