×
Interested in our Partner Program for businesses or our Local Guide Program for experienced expats and digital nomads? Click here to learn more.
Expat Exchange - Moving to Portugal with a Pet 2024
Expat Exchange
Free MembershipSign In
Castel Sao Jorge in Lisbon, Portugal


Moving to Portugal with a Pet

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Portugal Residency Advisors
Portugal Residency Advisors

Summary: Get ready to move to Portugal with your pets. This guide provides key information on vaccinations, what you can bring to Portugal, travel tips, and more, helping to avoid problems when you relocate with your pet.

Moving to Portugal with a pet involves a series of steps to ensure a smooth transition for your furry companion. Portugal is a pet-friendly country, and it is quite common for residents to have pets. However, bringing a pet into the country requires adherence to specific vaccination and paperwork requirements. While there is no mandatory quarantine for pets arriving from most countries, it is essential to have all the necessary documentation and health checks completed to avoid any complications. In this article, we will delve into the details of what you need to know about moving to Portugal with your pet, including the process of bringing them into the country, prohibited pets, and what to do upon arrival.

Can I bring my dog to Portugal?

Yes, you can bring your dog to Portugal. To do so, your dog must be microchipped, have a valid rabies vaccination, and be accompanied by an EU pet passport if coming from within the EU, or a health certificate if coming from outside the EU. It's important to ensure that all documentation is up to date and in compliance with Portuguese regulations.

Can I bring my cat to Portugal?

Similar to dogs, cats can also be brought into Portugal. They must be microchipped and vaccinated against rabies. Cats from within the EU should have an EU pet passport, while those from outside the EU need a health certificate. Always check the latest requirements before traveling, as regulations can change.

Pets that are Prohibited from Coming into Portugal

Portugal has restrictions on certain breeds of dogs that are considered dangerous, as well as on invasive or exotic species that may pose a risk to the country's native wildlife and ecosystems. It is crucial to consult the latest guidelines from the Portuguese authorities to determine if your pet falls under any of these categories. Generally, common domestic pets like dogs and cats are allowed, provided they meet health and documentation standards.

How do I bring my pet to Portugal?

To bring your pet to Portugal, you must ensure they are microchipped with an ISO 11784/11785 compliant 15-digit pet microchip. Your pet must be vaccinated against rabies and have an EU pet passport or a third-country official veterinary certificate. The rabies vaccination must be administered after the microchip is implanted. If your pet is entering Portugal 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 the country. Keep all documentation handy during travel, as you will need to present it upon arrival.

Upon Arriving in Portugal

After your pet has arrived in Portugal, you should register them with the local municipality and obtain a pet license if required. Finding a veterinarian is straightforward, as there are many clinics across the country. Introduce your pet to a local vet soon after arrival to establish a point of contact for any health-related concerns. Dogs and cats are generally well-liked in Portugal, and you will find dog parks and pet-friendly areas in many communities. It's also a good idea to familiarize yourself with local pet etiquette and any leash laws that may be in place in your new neighborhood.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.


Portugal Residency Advisors
Portugal Residency Advisors

Portugal Residency Advisors
Portugal Residency Advisors

Castel Sao Jorge in Lisbon, Portugal

SJB Global
SJB Global

SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
Learn More

SJB GlobalSJB Global

SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
Learn More

Contribute to Portugal Network Contribute
Help others in Portugal by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Portugal.

Portugal Residency Advisors
Portugal Residency Advisors

Copyright 1997-2024 Burlingame Interactive, Inc.

Privacy Policy Legal Partners & Local Guides