Janet B. Says:
How can I bring my dogs to Portugal?
IL Executive Editor Jennifer Stevens Says:
Hi Janet,
It’s certainly possible to bring your dogs with you to Portugal. It’s done all the time and generally is a stress-free process. Nevertheless, there are some things you’ll need to consider, which I will go into below.
International Health Certificate
Within 10 days of departure, have your pet examined by an accredited (by the USDA for the United States and CFIA for Canada) vet and obtain an IHC, International Health Certificate. This indicates your pet is healthy and fit for travel.
Microchip
Your pet must receive a microchip, which should comply with ISO Standard 11784 or Annex A to Standard 11785. Portugal also currently accepts AVID 9 and AVID 10 in addition to ISO. The microchip must be implanted before the rabies vaccine is administered.
Rabies Vaccine
All pets must have an original rabies vaccination certificate signed by your vet. The rabies vaccine must be at least 21 days old at the time of the final health exam.
Approved Airline Carrier or Crate
Even if your pet is small enough to travel in-cabin, it still must be in an approved carrier. Visit PetTravelStore and PetTravelCenter for more information.
Border Inspection
Pets can enter Portugal in-cabin, as checked baggage, or as cargo. If you are arriving from a non-EU country, you must go to the border inspection post at the airport, allow your pet to be inspected for health, and pay a fee, usually about €30 ($37).
For more detailed information, check out Chapter 8 of our Escape to Portugal guidebook.
Got a Question?
Send your thoughts to mailbag@internationalliving.com. We’ll post and respond to as many of your emails as we can right here in the e-letter.