Planning to relocate to Portugal with your beloved dog or cat? You're not alone. Thousands of Americans make this journey each year, and with proper preparation, bringing your furry family member is straightforward and stress-free.

This comprehensive guide covers all official requirements from Portugal's Directorate-General for Food and Veterinary (DGAV) and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA APHIS). Following these steps carefully will ensure your pet enters Portugal legally and without complications.

Before You Begin: Essential Requirements

Before diving into the step-by-step process, it's crucial to understand the basic eligibility criteria for bringing your pet to Portugal:

Step 1: Microchip & Rabies Vaccination

The foundation of your pet's travel documentation starts with proper identification and vaccination. This step must be completed several weeks before travel to allow for the mandatory waiting period.

Microchip Requirements

• ISO Standard: Must be ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip
• Timing: Implant before (or same day as) rabies vaccination
• Verification: Ensure the chip is scannable and properly registered

Rabies Vaccination Protocol

• Valid vaccine: Use only USDA-approved rabies vaccines
• Primary vaccination: Must wait 21 full days after first rabies shot before travel
• Booster shots: If given on time, no waiting period required
• Good news: Rabies antibody test (FAVN) is NOT required from the USA

Step 2: EU Health Certificate

The EU Health Certificate is the most critical document for your pet's entry into Portugal. This bilingual form must be completed by a USDA-accredited veterinarian and serves as your pet's "passport" for travel.

Certificate Requirements

• Official Form: Use Model E9.841 for Dogs/Cats over 16 weeks
• Veterinarian: Must be completed by USDA-accredited vet
• Owner Declaration: Attach the non-commercial transport declaration (included in form)
• Download: Get the latest version from USDA APHIS

Step 3: USDA Endorsement

After your veterinarian completes the health certificate, it must be officially endorsed by the USDA. This government seal validates the document for international travel.

Endorsement Process

• Submission: Submit via VEHCS portal or overnight mail to your regional USDA office
• Fees: Pay the required endorsement fee (service dogs are exempt)
• Original Required: The ink-signed, embossed original must travel with your pet
• Processing Time: Allow 3-5 business days for return shipping

Step 4: Book Pet-Friendly Travel

Choosing the right flight can make a significant difference in your pet's comfort and the inspection process upon arrival.

Flight Planning Checklist

• Airline Policies: Confirm crate size requirements and breed restrictions
• Temperature Restrictions: Check seasonal temperature embargoes
• Booking: Reserve pet space well in advance (limited spots available)
• Crate Requirements: Purchase IATA-approved travel crate

Step 5: Notify Portuguese Authorities

Portugal requires advance notification of your pet's arrival. This step is mandatory and must be completed at least 48 hours before landing.

Notification Process

• Form: Complete the DGAV "Notice of Arrival – Dogs & Cats" form
• Download: English version available here
• Documentation: Include scans of health certificate, vaccination records, and flight details
• Submission: Email to your arrival airport's PEV (Traveller Entry Point)

Airport Contact Information

Step 6: Veterinary Inspection on Arrival

Upon landing in Portugal, your pet will undergo a veterinary inspection. This is a standard procedure to verify all documentation and ensure your pet meets entry requirements.

Inspection Process

• Declaration: Follow signs to "Goods to Declare / Bens a Declarar"
• Documentation: Present original EU Health Certificate and vaccination records
• Inspection: Veterinarian will examine your pet and verify documents
• Duration: Typically takes 15-30 minutes if all documents are in order

Step 7: After Arrival in Portugal

Congratulations! Your pet has successfully entered Portugal. Here's what you need to do next to ensure continued legal status and future travel within Europe.

Immediate Next Steps

• Local Registration: Register with a Portuguese veterinarian within 30 days
• EU Pet Passport: Request an EU Pet Passport for future travel within Europe
• Vaccination Schedule: Maintain current rabies boosters according to Portuguese requirements
• Important: If rabies vaccination lapses, you must repeat the 21-day waiting period for future travel

Cost Breakdown

Understanding the costs involved helps you budget properly for your pet's relocation. Here's a comprehensive breakdown of official fees:

Official Resources

Always refer to official government sources for the most current information. These links provide authoritative guidance and forms:

Expert Tips for Success