Moving to Greece with a Pet

Moving to Greece can be an exciting adventure for expats and digital nomads, and for those with furry companions, it's important to understand the process and requirements for bringing a pet into the country. Greece is a pet-friendly nation, with many locals owning dogs and cats. However, bringing a pet to Greece involves a series of vaccinations, paperwork, and sometimes quarantine procedures to ensure the safety and health of both the pet and the local population. While it is not uncommon to have a pet in Greece, there are specific rules and regulations that must be followed. This article will delve into the details of these requirements and provide you with the necessary information to make your move to Greece with your pet as smooth as possible.

Can I bring my dog to Greece?

Yes, you can bring your dog to Greece, but 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 at least 21 days before travel but not more than a year prior to entering the country. You will also need to obtain a health certificate from a licensed veterinarian. Additionally, certain breeds that are considered dangerous may be subject to specific restrictions or bans.

Can I bring my cat to Greece?

Similar to dogs, cats are also welcome in Greece, provided they meet the necessary health requirements. Your cat must be microchipped and vaccinated against rabies. The same timing for the rabies vaccination applies to cats as it does for dogs. A health certificate stating that your cat is fit for travel and free from contagious diseases is also required. It's important to ensure all documentation is up-to-date and in line with Greece's import regulations.

Pets that are Prohibited from Coming into Greece

Greece has restrictions on certain breeds of dogs that are considered aggressive or dangerous. These may include breeds such as Pit Bulls, American Staffordshire Terriers, and Tosa Inus, among others. Additionally, exotic animals and certain species of rodents, birds, reptiles, and amphibians may be prohibited or require special permits. It's crucial to check the latest regulations before planning your move, as these restrictions can change and may vary depending on the species.

How do I bring my pet to Greece?

To bring your pet to Greece, you must ensure that all the necessary steps are taken well in advance of your travel date. Your pet must be microchipped, vaccinated against rabies, and have a valid EU pet passport or a third-country official veterinary certificate if coming from outside the EU. The health certificate should be issued within 10 days of travel. Additionally, you should check if a tapeworm treatment is required for your pet, especially for dogs. There is no quarantine imposed on pets arriving from EU countries and from countries with a low incidence of rabies, provided all the conditions are met. However, pets coming from high-rabies countries may be subject to quarantine. Always verify the latest requirements with the Greek consulate or embassy before traveling.

Upon Arriving in Greece

Once you and your pet have arrived in Greece, you may need to present all the required documents to the customs officials for verification. It's advisable to have a copy of your pet's medical records and ensure that their microchip can be scanned. While Greece does not require a specific pet license, you should register your pet with a local veterinarian as soon as possible. Finding a vet can be done through recommendations from other pet owners or by searching online. Greeks generally have a positive attitude towards pets, and you'll find that dogs and cats are quite popular. Dog parks can be found in urban areas, and there are plenty of pet-friendly spaces. However, it's important to be aware of local rules and etiquette regarding pets in public places. With the right preparation and understanding of the local culture, you and your pet can enjoy all that Greece has to offer.