Moving to Estonia with a Pet

Moving to Estonia with a pet involves a series of regulations and requirements to ensure the safety and well-being of your furry companion. Estonia, like many European countries, has specific vaccination and paperwork requirements for pets entering the country. While it is not uncommon for residents to have pets in Estonia, it is essential to prepare adequately for your move to avoid any complications. This includes understanding quarantine rules, which we will delve into later. The process is straightforward once you are familiar with the necessary steps, and with proper planning, your pet can start enjoying life in Estonia alongside you.

Can I bring my dog to Estonia?

Yes, you can bring your dog to Estonia. However, you must comply with the country's pet import regulations. Your dog must be microchipped with an ISO 11784/11785 compliant 15-digit pet microchip and vaccinated against rabies. There are additional health certificate and documentation requirements, which we will cover in more detail in the section on bringing pets to Estonia.

Can I bring my cat to Estonia?

Similar to dogs, cats are also welcome in Estonia, provided they meet the country's import requirements. Cats must be microchipped and vaccinated against rabies. You will need to obtain the necessary health certificates and ensure all paperwork is in order before your move. We will explore the specific steps and documentation needed in the following sections.

Pets that are Prohibited from Coming into Estonia

Estonia adheres to the European Union's regulations regarding the importation of pets. Certain breeds of dogs that are considered dangerous and may pose a risk to public safety are not allowed. Additionally, exotic animals that are endangered or protected by CITES (the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) may be prohibited. It is crucial to check the latest regulations and consult with the Estonian authorities if you have any concerns about your specific pet.

How do I bring my pet to Estonia?

To bring your pet to Estonia, you must ensure that they are microchipped with an ISO-compliant chip and vaccinated against rabies at least 21 days before travel. Dogs must also be treated for tapeworm one to five days before entering the country. You will need to obtain an EU pet passport or a health certificate issued by an official veterinarian in your current country. The health certificate should confirm that your pet is fit to travel and has met all the necessary health requirements. There is no mandatory quarantine for pets entering Estonia from EU countries and other countries with a low incidence of rabies, provided they meet all the health requirements. However, pets coming from high-rabies countries may be subject to quarantine. Always check the latest regulations before traveling as rules can change.

Upon Arriving in Estonia

After arriving in Estonia with your pet, you should register your pet with the local municipality and ensure that their vaccinations are kept up to date. Finding a veterinarian in Estonia is straightforward, as there are many clinics and animal hospitals, especially in larger cities. Estonians are generally pet-friendly, and you will find dog parks and pet-friendly areas where your dog can socialize and exercise. For cats, it's important to provide a safe and comfortable environment, especially if they are indoor cats. As an expat or digital nomad, you'll find that integrating your pet into your new life in Estonia can be a smooth process with a bit of preparation and understanding of local customs and regulations.