Moving with a Pet to Bulgaria

Moving to Bulgaria as an expat or digital nomad can be an exciting adventure, and naturally, you may want to bring your furry companion along for the journey. Understanding the requirements for bringing pets into Bulgaria is crucial to ensure a smooth transition for you and your pet. Bulgaria has specific vaccination and paperwork requirements for pets entering the country, and while quarantine is not typically required for healthy animals, it's important to be prepared for all eventualities. It's not uncommon for Bulgarians to have pets, and you'll find that dogs and cats are the most popular companions. However, the process of bringing them into the country does require some planning. In this article, we'll delve into the details of what you need to know about moving to Bulgaria with your pet, including the necessary steps and considerations for their arrival and settling in.

Can I bring my dog to Bulgaria?

Yes, you can bring your dog to Bulgaria. To do so, your dog must be microchipped, vaccinated against rabies, and accompanied by a pet passport or third-country official veterinary certificate. The rabies vaccination must be administered after the microchip is implanted and at least 21 days before travel. Dogs coming from certain countries may also require a tapeworm treatment. It's important to check the latest regulations before you travel, as these can change.

Can I bring my cat to Bulgaria?

Similar to dogs, cats are also welcome in Bulgaria. Your cat will need to be microchipped and vaccinated against rabies. A pet passport or an official third-country veterinary certificate is also required when entering Bulgaria with a cat. As with dogs, the rabies vaccination should be given after the microchip is in place and at least 21 days before entering the country. Always verify the most current requirements before your move, as regulations can be updated.

Pets that are Prohibited from Coming into Bulgaria

Bulgaria follows the European Union regulations regarding the importation of pets. Generally, most common household pets like dogs and cats are allowed. However, certain breeds of dogs that are considered dangerous may be subject to restrictions or bans. Additionally, exotic animals and endangered species protected under CITES (the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) may require special permits or may be prohibited altogether. It's essential to consult with the Bulgarian authorities or your local embassy to get the most accurate and up-to-date information on prohibited pets.

How do I bring my pet to Bulgaria?

To bring your pet to Bulgaria, you must ensure they are microchipped with an ISO 11784/11785 compliant 15-digit pet microchip. After microchipping, your pet must be vaccinated against rabies. Pets must be at least 12 weeks old at the time of the rabies vaccination. You'll need to wait 21 days after the primary vaccination before entering Bulgaria. A pet passport or an official veterinary certificate is also required, and it should include details of the microchip and vaccination. If you're coming from a high-rabies country, a rabies titer test may be necessary. There is no quarantine for pets arriving from EU countries and most non-EU countries, provided they meet the entry requirements. However, pets may be quarantined if they do not have the proper documentation or if they are showing signs of illness.

Upon Arriving in Bulgaria

Once you and your pet have arrived in Bulgaria, there are a few things you need to do to ensure your pet's well-being and compliance with local regulations. While there is no specific pet license required in Bulgaria, you should register your pet with a local veterinarian. Finding a vet can be done through recommendations from other pet owners or by searching online for veterinary clinics in your area. Bulgarians generally like dogs and cats, and while dog parks are not as common as in some other countries, there are still places where dogs can be walked and exercised. It's also a good idea to familiarize yourself with local laws regarding pets, such as leash laws and areas where pets are not allowed. By taking these steps, you can help your pet adjust to their new home and ensure they are healthy and happy in Bulgaria.