Compare Pet Travel Policies Easily
Select your countries and pet type to see import/export rules instantly.
Pet Travel Concierge
Full-service help with flights, paperwork, import permits, and transport.
France
Dog, Cat & Ferret Regulations
Vaccinations
Valid rabies vaccination is required for dogs, cats, and ferrets entering France under EU rules. For primary vaccination, immunity is considered valid 21 days after administration. Additional testing applies for animals arriving from certain non-EU countries with a higher rabies risk.
- Animal must be identified (microchip/tattoo where permitted) before rabies vaccination is administered.
- Primary rabies vaccination given at least 21 days before entry; booster vaccinations must be within validity per manufacturer and recorded.
- For entry from certain non-EU countries with higher rabies risk, a rabies antibody titration test (≥0.5 IU/ml) performed at an EU-approved laboratory is required, typically at least 30 days after vaccination and 3 months before entry.
- Proof of vaccination (and any required test) must be recorded in an EU pet passport (EU origin) or in the official EU animal health certificate (non‑EU origin).
Certifications
Required when the animal originates in an EU Member State (or territories applying the EU pet movement rules). Must show identification and rabies details.
- Pet identification details (microchip/tattoo where permitted).
- Proof of valid rabies vaccination (and test/results if applicable).
- Issued by an authorized veterinarian in the country of origin.
Microchip
Microchip required and must comply with ISO 11784/11785 standards or be otherwise readable at entry. Identification must be in place before rabies vaccination. A clearly legible tattoo is acceptable only if applied before 3 July 2011.
Origin Requirements
No origin-specific requirements for this pet.
More Info
Entry and controls
When arriving from a non‑EU country, pets must be presented to border/customs controls at a point of entry able to handle live animals. Travelers should verify that their chosen entry point is a designated Border Control Post (BCP) authorized for the relevant species.
- Verify an appropriate French BCP for live animals before travel.
- Present the animal and its original documents to customs/border officers upon arrival.
Movement type
Non‑commercial movement only (animals not intended for sale or transfer of ownership).
Assistance/guide dogs
Guide and assistance dogs are permitted and subject to the same animal health rules as other dogs.
