Moving with a Pet to Norway

Moving to Norway with a pet involves a series of regulations and requirements that must be met to ensure a smooth transition for your furry friend. Norway is a country that values animal welfare, and as such, has strict rules regarding the importation of pets to protect both the animals and the local ecosystem. Vaccinations, microchipping, and specific paperwork are essential, and depending on your pet's country of origin, a quarantine period may be necessary. It is not uncommon for people in Norway to have pets; in fact, dogs and cats are popular companions. However, it's important to understand the nuances of bringing a pet into the country, which we will delve into in the following sections.

Can I bring my dog to Norway?

Yes, you can bring your dog to Norway, but there are specific requirements you must meet. Your dog must be microchipped, vaccinated against rabies, and have a valid EU pet passport or an official veterinary certificate if coming from outside the EU. Dogs from certain countries must undergo treatment for Echinococcus multilocularis (tapeworm) before entering Norway. It's important to check the latest regulations as they can change and may vary depending on your country of origin.

Can I bring my cat to Norway?

Similar to dogs, cats can also be brought into Norway. They must be microchipped and vaccinated against rabies. An EU pet passport or an official veterinary certificate is required for cats entering from outside the EU. Cats do not need to be treated for Echinococcus multilocularis, but they should be in good health and free of any signs of infectious diseases upon arrival.

Pets that are Prohibited from Coming into Norway

Norway has restrictions on certain breeds of dogs that are considered dangerous and are therefore prohibited from entering the country. These include Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Fila Brasileiro, Toso Inu, Dogo Argentino, and Czechoslovakian Wolfdog, among others. Additionally, some rodents, rabbits, and ferrets from outside the EU/EEA are not allowed due to disease control. Exotic animals and certain species of birds may also be restricted or require special permits.

How do I bring my pet to Norway?

To bring your pet to Norway, you must ensure that all the necessary steps are taken well in advance of your travel date. Your pet must be microchipped with an ISO 11784/11785 compliant 15-digit pet microchip. After microchipping, your pet must be vaccinated against rabies. There is a 21-day waiting period after the primary rabies vaccination before entry into Norway is allowed. Ensure that all vaccinations are up to date and documented in the EU pet passport or the official veterinary certificate. If you're coming from a high-rabies country, a rabies titer test may be required. Additionally, dogs must be treated for tapeworm one to five days before entering Norway. All documentation should be in order, and it's advisable to have multiple copies. There is no quarantine for pets entering from EU countries, provided all conditions are met, but pets from some non-EU countries may be subject to quarantine.

Upon Arriving in Norway

Once you and your pet have arrived in Norway, there are a few things you need to do to settle in. While there is no specific pet license required in Norway, you should register your pet with the Norwegian Food Safety Authority and update the microchip information with your current contact details. Finding a veterinarian is straightforward, as there are many clinics across the country. You can ask for recommendations from local pet owners or search online for a clinic near you. Norwegians generally have a positive attitude towards pets, and you'll find that dogs and cats are common and well-loved. Dog parks are available in urban areas, and there are plenty of outdoor spaces for walking your dog. Remember to always keep your dog on a leash unless in designated off-leash areas and clean up after your pet. With these steps, you and your pet can enjoy all that Norway has to offer.