Moving with a Pet to France

Moving to France with a pet can be a smooth process with the right preparation. France is a pet-friendly country, and it is quite common for residents to have pets. However, bringing your furry friend along involves understanding the country's regulations regarding vaccination, paperwork, and potential quarantine measures. While the details will be covered later in this article, it's important to note that France has specific entry requirements for pets that must be met to ensure a hassle-free move. This guide will provide you with the necessary information to navigate the process of moving to France with your pet.

Can I bring my dog to France?

Yes, you can bring your dog to France, provided you comply with the country's pet import regulations. Your dog must be microchipped, vaccinated against rabies, and accompanied by a European Union pet passport or a health certificate. Dogs must be at least 15 weeks old to enter France, as they must be 12 weeks old at the time of vaccination and then wait an additional 21 days before traveling.

Can I bring my cat to France?

Similar to dogs, cats are also welcome in France. The requirements for bringing your cat include microchipping, a valid rabies vaccination, and the appropriate documentation, such as an EU pet passport or a veterinary health certificate. The same age and vaccination timing rules apply to cats as they do to dogs.

Pets that are Prohibited from Coming into France

France has restrictions on certain breeds of dogs, particularly those considered dangerous. There are two categories: Category 1 includes dogs that are not permitted to enter or live in France, such as American Staffordshire Terriers, Mastiffs, and Tosa without pedigree papers. Category 2 includes dogs that are allowed but with specific ownership conditions, such as Rottweilers. Additionally, it is illegal to bring in any species considered invasive or a threat to local wildlife and public safety. Always check the most current regulations before planning your move.

How do I bring my pet to France?

To bring your pet to France, start by ensuring they are microchipped with an ISO 11784/11785 compliant 15-digit pet microchip. Next, your pet must be vaccinated against rabies. Dogs, cats, and ferrets from outside the EU must have a rabies antibody titer test if they come from a high-rabies country. You'll need an EU pet passport if traveling from within the EU, or an official veterinary health certificate if traveling from outside the EU. The certificate should be endorsed by the official government veterinarian of your home country. There is no quarantine for pets arriving in France as long as they meet the entry requirements.

Upon Arriving in France

Once in France, there is no specific pet license required, but you should register your pet with the local municipality. Finding a veterinarian is straightforward, as there are many throughout the country; it's advisable to register with one soon after arrival. French people generally have a positive attitude towards pets, and dogs and cats are commonly kept as companions. Dog parks are available, especially in urban areas, and there are plenty of public spaces where dogs are welcome. Remember to keep your pet's vaccinations up to date and be aware of local regulations, such as leash laws and pet access rules in public areas.