Brexit changed many things — including how you travel abroad with your pets. Before 2021, a UK-issued EU Pet Passport was enough to take your dog or cat on holiday or to relocate to Spain. But now, the rules are different.
If you’re a pet owner planning to move to Spain, here’s the complete guide to pet travel from the UK after Brexit.
🇪🇺 Before Brexit vs. After Brexit
Before Brexit:
- UK-issued EU Pet Passports were accepted across Spain and the EU.
- Travel was simple and repeatable.
After Brexit:
- UK Pet Passports are no longer valid for entry into Spain.
- Pets now need an Animal Health Certificate (AHC).
- The AHC must be issued within 10 days of travel by an Official Vet.
👉 This change is the biggest hurdle for pet owners today.
📜 The Animal Health Certificate (AHC) Explained
Your AHC is now the golden ticket for your pet’s entry into Spain. Here’s what you need:
- Microchip – your pet must be chipped with an ISO-compliant 15-digit chip.
- Rabies Vaccination – given after the microchip, with a 21-day wait before travel.
- AHC from a UK vet – issued no more than 10 days before travel.
- Valid ID & proof of ownership – to match your details with your pet.
💡 Each AHC is valid for:
- One entry into the EU (e.g., Spain)
- Ongoing travel within the EU
- Re-entry into the UK (up to 4 months)
✈️ How to Travel from the UK to Spain With Pets
- Flying – Airlines like Iberia, Vueling, and British Airways have specific rules for pets. Most allow small animals in the cabin (under 8kg with carrier), others require pets to travel in the hold.
- Ferry – Brittany Ferries (Portsmouth–Santander, Plymouth–Bilbao) offers pet-friendly cabins and kennels.
- Driving – Popular for expats relocating permanently. Use Eurotunnel or ferry routes, then drive south through France.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid After Brexit
- Using an old Pet Passport – UK-issued EU Pet Passports are no longer valid. Only EU-issued ones still work.
- Forgetting the 21-day rabies wait – If it’s your pet’s first rabies jab, you can’t travel until 3 weeks later.
- Missing deadlines – The AHC must be dated within 10 days of travel; don’t get it too early.
🐶 Are There Breed Restrictions in Spain?
Yes. Spain considers certain dogs as “potentially dangerous breeds” (PPP law). These include Rottweilers, Pit Bulls, and Akitas. If you’re bringing one of these breeds to Spain, you must:
- Register your dog locally within 30 days.
- Carry liability insurance.
- Use a muzzle and short lead in public.
💰 How Much Does Pet Travel Cost Post-Brexit?
- Microchip & rabies vaccination: £60–£120
- Animal Health Certificate: £100–£200 per pet
- Travel costs: £100–£400 depending on method (plane, ferry, etc.)
- Insurance/registration (if required in Spain): €50–€200
Overall, budget £300–£1,000 per pet for post-Brexit pet relocation to Spain.
🏡 Don’t Forget Your Home Move
While you prepare your pet’s travel paperwork, you’ll also need to move your household goods. That’s where Advance Moves can help.
👉 Get a Quick Quote to compare prices for your international removal in minutes:
https://www.advancemoves.com/quickquote/worldwide
✅ Key Takeaways
- UK Pet Passports are no longer valid after Brexit.
- Your pet needs a microchip, rabies vaccine, and an Animal Health Certificate.
- The AHC must be issued within 10 days of travel.
- Travel options include road, ferry, and air — choose what suits your pet best.
- Spain is pet-friendly, but PPP breed restrictions apply.