Traveling with pets on airplanes remains a popular choice for many pet owners worldwide. However, regulations and requirements vary significantly depending on the region you’re traveling to or from. Below is a guide outlining the key rules for pet travel in Europe (EU), North America (NA), and Asia for 2025-2026.
1. European Union (EU)
The EU has some of the most harmonized and detailed rules for pet travel, mainly due to the Pet Travel Scheme (PETS).
- Allowed Pets: Mainly cats, dogs, and ferrets.
- Entry Requirements:
- Pets must have a microchip (ISO 11784/11785 standard).
- A valid rabies vaccination after microchipping.
- A pet passport or official veterinary certificate.
- Tapeworm treatment (for dogs) required before entry to some countries.
- Transport:
- Small pets under 8 kg (including the carrier) can often travel in the cabin.
- Larger pets usually travel as checked baggage or cargo.
- Additional Notes:
- Pets traveling from non-EU countries to the EU may face quarantine if documentation is incomplete.
- Some EU countries have additional restrictions or require advance notification.
- Airline Policies: Each airline within the EU may have slight variations in carrier size and fees. Pre-booking is usually required.
2. North America (USA & Canada)
Both the United States and Canada allow pet travel but have strict health requirements.
- Allowed Pets: Cats and dogs primarily; other pets like rabbits or birds may have restrictions.
- Entry Requirements:
- Up-to-date rabies vaccination certificate.
- Health certificate issued within 10 days prior to travel.
- Some states or provinces have additional rules, especially regarding quarantine.
- Transport:
- Small pets can fly in the cabin on most airlines if under a certain weight limit (usually 8 kg).
- Larger pets typically travel as checked baggage or cargo.
- Additional Notes:
- The USDA requires inspection and documentation for pets entering the USA.
- Canada has specific import regulations and may require microchipping.
- Airline Policies: Airlines like Delta, United, Air Canada have clear pet policies available online; fees and restrictions vary.
3. Asia (Key Countries: China, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, India)
Asia’s pet travel regulations vary widely between countries and can be more complex.
- Allowed Pets: Mainly cats and dogs; other animals may require special permits.
- Entry Requirements:
- Most countries require rabies vaccination and health certificates.
- Some countries, like Japan and Singapore, require advanced quarantine periods unless certain conditions are met.
- Microchipping is often mandatory.
- Transport:
- Cabin travel allowed for small pets on many airlines.
- Larger pets must be transported via cargo or checked baggage.
- Additional Notes:
- China has strict quarantine laws for pets imported into the country.
- Japan has a detailed import process that can include up to 180 days of quarantine if not all conditions are met.
- Singapore requires prior approval for pet import and strict health certifications.
- Airline Policies: Airlines like Singapore Airlines, ANA, Cathay Pacific provide specific pet travel services with varying restrictions.
General Tips for Traveling with Pets Internationally:
- Always check airline-specific policies before booking; sizes, fees, and pet allowances vary.
- Prepare all required documents well in advance - vaccination records, microchip info, health certificates.
- Use approved pet carriers that meet airline requirements.
- Research import/export regulations and quarantine rules for both departure and arrival countries.
- If possible, acclimate your pet to the carrier before travel to reduce stress.
- Consider consulting with a vet experienced in international pet travel.
Final Thoughts
Traveling with pets in 2025-2026 can be smooth if you understand and prepare for the specific regulations in your region. The EU offers a relatively harmonized system, North America demands strict health certificates and vaccinations, while Asia varies greatly depending on the country.
By staying informed and organized, your furry friend can accompany you on your adventures with minimal hassle.
