Relocating to Spain is a dream for thousands of UK expats every year — sunshine, lifestyle, lower cost of living, and a culture that loves animals. But what about your pets? Bringing a dog or cat to Spain is possible, but you need to be aware of the latest rules after Brexit, veterinary requirements, and the realities of pet-friendly living in Spain.
This guide covers everything you need to know about moving pets to Spain from the UK in 2025.
✈️ Can I Take My Dog or Cat to Spain From the UK?
Yes — thousands of pets travel from Britain to Spain each year. But since Brexit, the process has changed. UK-issued EU Pet Passports are no longer valid. Instead, you’ll need an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) and proof of rabies vaccination.
This means:
- You must plan at least 21 days before departure.
- Your vet must issue an AHC within 10 days of travel.
- The certificate is valid for one trip into the EU, onward travel, and return to the UK (for 4 months).
🐕 Step 1: Microchip & Vaccination
- Your pet must have an ISO-compliant microchip (15-digit).
- Rabies vaccination must be given after microchipping.
- A 21-day waiting period applies for first rabies vaccinations.
👉 Without this, your pet will be denied entry into Spain.
📜 Step 2: Animal Health Certificate (AHC)
From January 2021, the UK became a “third country,” meaning old UK Pet Passports aren’t valid for travel to Spain. Instead, you’ll need:
- An Animal Health Certificate issued by an Official Vet within 10 days of travel.
- The AHC must be presented at the border along with vaccination proof.
- For multi-pet households, each pet requires its own AHC.
💡 Pro tip: Ask your vet if they can provide bilingual AHC paperwork (English & Spanish) to avoid confusion at customs.
🏖️ Step 3: Breed Restrictions in Spain
Spain has laws covering “potentially dangerous dog breeds” (PPP law). These include:
- Pit Bull Terrier
- Rottweiler
- Akita Inu
- Dogo Argentino
- Staffordshire Bull Terrier
- Fila Brasileiro
- Tosa Inu
If your dog is one of these breeds (or even a crossbreed that resembles them), you’ll need to:
- Register with your local ayuntamiento (town hall) within 1 month of arrival.
- Obtain third-party liability insurance (minimum €120,000 cover).
- Always walk with a muzzle and a short lead in public.
🚢 Step 4: Travel Options to Spain with Pets
- By Air – Many UK airlines allow pets as cargo (in the hold, climate-controlled). Some allow small pets in the cabin.
- By Ferry – Brittany Ferries offers pet-friendly cabins and kennels on UK–Spain routes (Portsmouth–Santander, Plymouth–Bilbao).
- By Road – Many expats choose to drive, especially if relocating with multiple pets. Check Eurotunnel or ferry pet policies.
💡 If flying, ensure you have an IATA-approved travel crate — big enough for your pet to stand, turn, and lie down.
🏠 Step 5: Living in Spain with Pets
Spain is generally pet-friendly, but here are key things to know:
- Many rentals don’t allow pets — always check before signing a contract.
- Dogs must be registered locally, and annual rabies boosters are required.
- In most cities, dogs are allowed on public transport, but often with a muzzle.
- Popular dog-friendly regions include the Costa del Sol, Costa Blanca, and Valencia.
💰 How Much Does It Cost to Move a Pet to Spain?
- Vet costs (microchip, rabies, AHC): £150–£300 per pet
- Pet-friendly ferry/airline fees: £80–£400
- Pet transport company (optional): £800–£1,500
- Insurance/registration in Spain: €50–€200 annually
Overall, most expats spend £500–£2,000 moving a pet to Spain.
❓ FAQs on Moving Pets to Spain
Can I still use a UK Pet Passport?
No, since Brexit, only EU-issued pet passports are valid. You need an AHC from a UK vet.
Is quarantine required?
No quarantine if your paperwork is correct.
Do cats need the same paperwork?
Yes, cats follow the same microchip + rabies + AHC rules as dogs.
Can I take more than one pet?
Yes, up to five pets per person (unless attending a competition/show).
📦 Don’t Forget Your Household Move
While you work on your pet’s paperwork, you’ll also need to move your house contents abroad. That’s where we can help.
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