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Relocating to a new country is exciting, but moving to Portugal with pets requires careful planning. The good news is that Portugal is one of Europe’s most pet-friendly countries, with clear import rules, no quarantine for compliant animals, and a lifestyle that’s ideal for pet owners.
Whether you’re bringing a dog, cat, bird, or even an exotic pet, Portugal allows animals to enter from both EU and non-EU countries as long as official requirements are met.
This complete guide explains how to bring pets to Portugal step by step, including regulations, documents, transportation options, restrictions, and practical tips to ensure a smooth relocation for both you and your pet.
Can You Bring Pets to Portugal?
Yes, you can bring pets to Portugal.
Portugal welcomes pets from EU and non-EU countries, provided that all current import requirements set by the Portuguese Directorate-General for Food and Veterinary (DGAV) are fulfilled. These rules exist to prevent the spread of diseases, protect public health, and ensure animal welfare.
Most pets enter Portugal without any issues as long as owners prepare in advance and follow the correct procedures.
Pet Import Rules in Portugal: Quick Overview
At a glance, to bring a pet to Portugal you will need:
An ISO-compliant microchip
A valid rabies vaccination
An EU Pet Passport (for EU pets) or Veterinary Health Certificate (for non-EU pets)
A rabies titre test (for most non-EU countries)
No quarantine, if all requirements are met
Special permits for certain breeds or species
Moving to Portugal With Pets From the EU
If you are relocating to Portugal from another EU or Schengen Area country, the process is relatively straightforward, particularly for dogs, cats, and ferrets.
Requirements for EU Pet Travel
Your pet must have:
Microchip
ISO Standard 11784 or 11785. The microchip must be implanted before rabies vaccination.Rabies vaccination
Administered after microchipping and at least 21 days before travel (if it is the first vaccination).EU Pet Passport
Issued by an authorised veterinarian and valid across all EU member states.
According to Regulation (EU) No 576/2013, up to five pets may travel for non-commercial purposes when accompanied by their owner.
Moving to Portugal With Pets From Outside the EU
Relocating to Portugal from a non-EU country requires more preparation and stricter timelines, especially due to rabies prevention measures.
Requirements for Non-EU Pet Travel
Microchipping (before vaccination)
Rabies vaccination with a 21-day waiting period
Rabies Titre Test
A blood test taken at least 30 days after vaccination and typically three months before travel.
The test must be conducted in an EU-approved laboratory.Veterinary Health Certificate
Issued by a licensed veterinarian and endorsed by your country’s official veterinary authority. Valid for 10 days for entry into the EU.Notice of Arrival
Advance notification sent to the Portuguese Traveller’s Entry Point (PEV).
Because timelines are strict, it’s essential to begin the process several months in advance.
Required Documents to Bring Pets to Portugal
Bringing pets to Portugal involves gathering the correct documentation, similar to how people need passports to travel.
Essential Documents
EU Pet Passport (EU residents)
Veterinary Health Certificate (non-EU residents)
Rabies vaccination certificate
Microchip registration
Rabies titre test results (if applicable) in accordance with Article 37 of Regulation (EU) 2017/625
Notice of Arrival (non-EU pets)
Proper documentation ensures a smooth entry without delays or refusals.
Rabies Rules, Microchips & Vaccinations
Rabies Vaccination
Rabies vaccination is mandatory for all pets entering Portugal.
Must be administered after microchipping
First vaccination requires a 21-day waiting period
Booster shots must remain valid at all times
Microchips
All pets must have an ISO-compliant microchip.
If your pet has a non-compliant chip, you may be required to provide your own reader at entry, which can cause delays.
Quarantine Rules in Portugal
Portugal does not impose quarantine on pets arriving from EU or non-EU countries as long as all requirements are met and documentation is valid.
This makes Portugal particularly attractive for pet owners concerned about separation from their animals.
What Do You Need to Bring a Pet into Portugal: A Comparison
Requirements | Arriving from an EU country | Arriving from a non-EU country |
Microchip | ✓ | ✓ |
Rabies Vaccination | ✓ | ✓ |
EU Pet Passport | ✓ |
|
Veterinary Health Certificate |
| ✓ |
Rabies Titre Test |
| ✓ |
Notice of Arrival |
| ✓ |
Pet Travel Restrictions in Portugal
Age Restrictions
Pets must be old enough to receive a rabies vaccination.
As a result, puppies and kittens under 15 weeks old are generally not permitted to enter Portugal.
Restricted Dog Breeds
Portugal restricts certain dog breeds considered potentially dangerous:
Pit Bull Terrier
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
American Staffordshire Terrier
Rottweiler
Fila Brasileiro
Dogo Argentino
Tosa Inu
Owners may need special authorisation, mandatory sterilisation, liability insurance, and the use of a muzzle in public. In some cases, importation may be prohibited.
Always consult Portuguese authorities before relocating with one of these breeds.
Best Ways to Transport Pets to Portugal
Flying With Pets to Portugal
Air travel is the most common method for international pet relocation.
Airline Policies
TAP Air Portugal: Allows small dogs and cats (up to 8 kg including carrier) in the cabin. Larger pets travel in the pressurised, temperature-controlled cargo hold. Some breeds are restricted.
Other airlines (Lufthansa, British Airways, Air France): Policies vary regarding weight limits, fees, and breed restrictions, particularly for short-nosed animals.
Always notify the airline in advance, as space for pets is limited.
Alternative Transport Options
Driving to Portugal: Ideal for those relocating from mainland Europe, allowing flexibility and regular breaks.
Travelling by Sea: Some ferry services allow pets on board but facilities may be limited and pets may need to stay in designated areas or kennels.
Pet relocation services: Professional companies manage documentation, transport, and customs clearance, reducing stress for owners.
Is Portugal Pet-Friendly?
Yes, Portugal is extremely pet-friendly.
Major cities like Lisbon and Porto offer parks and green spaces
Many cafés and restaurants welcome pets in outdoor seating areas
Shopping centres such as UBBO and Colombo (Lisbon) are pet-friendly
Veterinary care is modern, affordable, and widely available
Pet shops, grooming services, and pet hotels are easy to find
Portugal’s relaxed lifestyle and warm culture make it an excellent destination for pet owners.
Common Mistakes When Moving to Portugal With Pets
Avoid these common errors:
Starting the rabies titre test too late
Assuming all dog breeds are allowed
Booking flights before confirming airline pet policies
Using non-IATA-approved travel crates
Forgetting to notify Portuguese authorities in advance
Proper planning prevents costly delays and travel disruptions.
Portugal Awaits You and Your Pet
Relocating with a pet takes preparation, patience, and planning, but the reward is a high quality of life in one of Europe’s most welcoming countries. If you want to take the stress out of moving to Portugal, Portugal Homes’ experts are here to support you every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can pets travel in the cabin to Portugal?
Yes. Small cats and dogs (usually up to 8 kg including carrier) may travel in the cabin on many airlines, provided they remain in an approved carrier.
How much does it cost to bring a pet to Portugal?
Costs vary but typically range from several hundred to over €1,000, depending on veterinary fees, documentation, and transportation.
Can pets travel in the cargo hold?
Yes. Cargo holds are pressurised and temperature controlled. Pets must travel in an IATA-approved crate.
Are there alternatives to flying?
Yes. Driving from Europe or using professional pet relocation services are popular alternatives.
What animals can I bring to Portugal?
Dogs, cats, ferrets, birds, rabbits, rodents, reptiles, amphibians, and fish are allowed, though some species require special permits.
Can I bring a bird to Portugal?
Yes, but additional permits, health checks, and possible quarantine may apply.
Are there pet hotels in Portugal?
Yes. Portugal offers numerous pet hotels providing daycare, overnight stays, grooming, and training.
Need help relocating? Speak with our Portugal relocation experts to make your move to Portugal effortless, no matter who you bring with you.
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