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Netherlands

Updated: April 26, 2026 Source: April 17, 2026

Dog, Cat & Ferret Regulations

Select the animal regulations you want to view:
Vaccinations
Description:

Rabies vaccination is required for entry into the Netherlands under EU rules. Timing and documentation requirements apply.

  • Primary rabies vaccination must be administered by a veterinarian at or after 12 weeks of age.
  • A minimum waiting period of 21 days after the primary rabies vaccination is required before entry.
  • Booster vaccinations must be kept current per the vaccine manufacturer’s validity; if a booster is administered before the previous vaccination expires, no new 21-day wait is required.
Certifications
Description:

For movements from other EU Member States, an EU Pet Passport documenting the pet’s microchip and valid rabies vaccination is used.

Microchip

A microchip compliant with ISO 11784/11785 must be implanted before (or on the same day as) the rabies vaccination. The chip must be readable at the border; if not ISO-compatible, bring your own reader. Tattoos are acceptable only if applied before 3 July 2011 and clearly legible.

Origin Requirements

No origin-specific requirements for this pet.

More Info
Travel from EU vs. third countries

Pets arriving from another EU country travel on an EU Pet Passport. Pets from third countries (non‑EU) require an EU Animal Health Certificate and, depending on the country of origin, may also need rabies serology and a 3‑month wait.

Entry points

Pets entering from third countries must arrive via designated EU entry points for travelers (TPE). The NVWA references the EU’s official list of TPEs.

Dog registration in the Netherlands

There are differing Dutch notices on timing: Government.nl indicates all imported dogs must be registered within 2 weeks of arrival, while NVWA indicates registration applies if the stay exceeds 3 months. Confirm with NVWA and your municipality for your situation.

Import-Specific Links
Government of the Netherlands – Can I bring a pet from another country to the Netherlands? NVWA – Travelling from EU countries to the Netherlands with your cat or dog NVWA – Travelling from third countries to the Netherlands with your cat or dog APHIS – Using the Veterinary Export Health Certification System (VEHCS) VEHCS Step‑by‑Step User Guide (PDF)
Official Source(s)
USDA Endorsement Offices Netherland_official website Travelling from third countries to the Netherlands Travelling from EU countries to the Netherlands NVWA – Travelling from third countries to the Netherlands with your cat or dog NVWA – Travelling from EU countries to the Netherlands with your cat or dog