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Portugal
Dogs, Cats & Ferrets Regulations
Vaccinations
Rabies vaccination is mandatory for entry from non-EU countries. Requirements follow EU rules referenced by DGAV.
- Pet must be identified with a microchip before (or on the same day as) rabies vaccination.
- Primary rabies vaccination can be given from 12 weeks of age.
- Entry is permitted only after 21 days have passed from the primary vaccination.
- If coming from a country not listed by the EU as rabies-controlled ("non-listed"), a rabies antibody titration test (≥ 0.5 IU/ml) is required: the blood sample must be drawn at least 30 days after vaccination, tested in an EU-approved laboratory, and a 90-day waiting period after the blood draw must elapse before entry.
- Practical minimum age to arrive from listed countries is about 15 weeks (12 weeks + 21 days). From non-listed countries, the serology and 90-day wait make the minimum age later.
- Additional origin-specific health conditions apply for dogs from peninsular Malaysia and cats from Australia (check DGAV guidance).
Certifications
An EU animal health certificate for non-commercial movement from a non-EU country is required. DGAV notes a new EU certificate model applies from 22-04-2026, with a transition period until 31-03-2027 for certificates issued before 01-10-2026.
- Obtain the correct EU animal health certificate issued by the competent authority/official veterinarian of the country of departure.
- Travelers from the United States must use the USDA APHIS EU certificate package and obtain USDA endorsement.
- Carry supporting documents (proof of microchip, rabies vaccination, and—if required—rabies antibody titration test results).
- Present the animal and documentation at a designated Travellers’ Point of Entry (PEV) upon arrival in Portugal.
Microchip
Pets must be identified with a compliant ISO 11784/11785 microchip implanted before or on the same day as rabies vaccination.
Origin Requirements
No origin-specific requirements for this pet.
More Info
Pre-notification (Aviso de chegada)
Advance notice to a designated Travellers’ Point of Entry is required.
- Email the PEV at least 48 hours before arrival using the DGAV "Aviso de chegada" process for dogs and cats.
- Confirm the PEV’s opening hours when sending the pre-notification.
Veterinary check and fees at PEV
Official veterinary controls are performed at the Travellers’ Point of Entry.
- Present the pet and documents for inspection at the PEV.
- Fees are charged for the veterinary check (DGAV example figures: €42.25 for one animal; €84.50 for two or more).
- Guide/assistance dogs are exempt from these fees.
Certificate model change (2026)
DGAV indicates the EU updated the pet health certificate model effective 22-04-2026, with a transition period.
- Use the new EU model from 22-04-2026.
- Certificates issued before 01-10-2026 may be used during a transition period ending 31-03-2027.
Special origins
Certain origins have extra health conditions.
- Dogs from peninsular Malaysia and cats from Australia must meet additional conditions set by the EU/DGAV. Check the latest DGAV guidance before travel.
