The summer season is synonymous with travel and preparing in advance for the trips we are going to make in summer is not only a guarantee of securing better prices but is essential to avoid unforeseen events, which multiply when traveling in company. Among these preparations, checking the necessary documentation for certain trips is not a minor issue if one wants to avoid unpleasant last-minute surprises that could even spoil the trip.
In this context, it is worth remembering that millions of people have some type of pet in their homes and that these unique 'members' of the families also need to have their papers in order when accompanying their owners on their travels.
Mandatory document for traveling with pets in the EU
For travel within the European Union, Brussels requires the existence of a pet passport, among other requirements; a measure that affects dogs, cats, and ferrets.
The use of this document is regulated by two key regulations, namely Regulation (EU) No 576/2013 and Implementing Regulation (EU) No 577/2013, which have been applied since December 29, 2014, when the current unified system entered into force throughout the EU.
Thus, the European passport is not optional if you travel with your pet within the EU, being the only valid document that certifies the animal's health status in accordance with European legislation.
What the law requires: mandatory requirements
To be able to travel with a pet within the EU, legislation requires:
- Microchip identification (prior to vaccination)
- Rabies vaccination in effect
- European passport issued by an authorized veterinarian
- In some countries, additional treatments (such as deworming)
Without meeting these requirements, the displacement is considered irregular.
How much does the European passport for pets cost
The price of this indispensable document is not set by law and depends on the veterinarian, but these are the usual ranges in Spain:
- Passport: 10–30 €
- Microchip: 30–60 €
- Rabies vaccine: 20–50 €
The estimated initial total cost to prepare a pet's trip is estimated between 50 and 120 euros. Afterwards, the expense is limited to keeping vaccines and treatments up to date.
What happens if you travel without a passport for your pet
In case of traveling through EU territory without having our pet's documentation in order, and although citizens of member countries of the Union do not require a passport to do so, it may result in denial of entry or return of the animal from the country to which one travels.
Furthermore, if the sanitary requirements are not met, the animal may be subjected to mandatory quarantine, with costs borne by the owner.
Fines and penalties
In Spain and other EU countries, infractions may lead to:
- Penalties for not identifying the animal or not vaccinating it
- Fines ranging from hundreds to several thousand euros, depending on the severity
If the animal generates a sanitary risk, the owner may face administrative and even criminal liabilities
Limits to consider
European regulations also set that you can travel with a maximum of 5 pets and that they must be non-commercial movements (no sale or professional transport)