A Complete Guide to Moving to Portugal With Your Pet

Relocating to Portugal is a thrilling adventure, but when your move includes a pet, it requires additional planning and preparation. Transporting a pet internationally is more complex than moving household items. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to make sure your pet’s journey to Portugal is smooth and safe. From initial vet visits to airline regulations and EU requirements, we’ll cover everything you need to know.

Why Moving Pets Internationally Can Be Challenging 

When moving to another country, the general process involves gathering documents, attending consulate appointments, obtaining visas, and establishing residency upon arrival. But pets have an entirely separate process—often more complex due to strict health and transportation guidelines. While you’ll follow a clear step-by-step procedure to gain residency, pets require additional precautions and documentation.

There are four main stages in moving your pet:

 1. Working with your veterinarian to meet health requirements.

 2. Collecting essential documents for entry into Portugal.

 3. Arranging safe transportation for your pet.

 4. Obtaining an EU pet passport once in Portugal.

In this guide, we’ll break down each stage to help you avoid potential roadblocks and ensure that your furry friend arrives safe and sound.

Step 1: Working with Your Vet 

Most countries, including Portugal, require a USDA-certified health certificate for pets arriving from the U.S. The process begins with finding a qualified vet and meeting specific health standards.

Find a USDA-Certified Vet 

Not all veterinarians are USDA-certified, so your first step is confirming that your vet can issue a USDA-approved health certificate. If they’re not certified, ask for a referral or find a USDA-certified vet using this official link.

Required Health Preparations for Portugal 

Portugal has several health requirements for pets, including:

 • Microchip: A 15-digit ISO-compliant microchip is required. Even if your pet already has a microchip, you may need to implant a new one if it doesn’t meet Portugal’s specific standards. This chip must be implanted at least 21 days before arrival.

 • Rabies Vaccination: Portugal mandates that the rabies vaccine be administered at least 21 days but no more than one year before your arrival. The vaccine must be given after the microchip is implanted. If your pet’s rabies vaccine is more than a year old, a booster shot is required.

 • Health Certificate: Within 10 days of your travel, schedule an exam with your certified vet to complete the USDA health certificate. Timing is crucial as the USDA certificate must be issued close to your departure date.

Step 2: Collecting All Necessary Documents 

Gathering and organizing all necessary documents is essential to ensure a seamless entry for your pet.

Document Checklist 

Make sure you have these key documents:

 • Vaccination Records: Confirm that they are up-to-date and include the recent rabies vaccine.

 • Microchip Certificate: Shows proof of implantation and compliance with Portugal’s requirements.

 • Rabies Vaccination Certificate: Demonstrates the timing of the rabies shot, verifying it was administered after the microchip.

 • USDA Health Certificate: Issued within 10 days of travel and stamped with the USDA’s raised seal. You’ll need this original document, as copies are generally not accepted.

 • Pet Arrival Form: Portugal requires this form with details about your pet’s breed, size, transportation method (e.g., in-cabin, checked luggage, or cargo), flight details, and your contact information.

Pro tip: Email these documents to the airport vet in Portugal within 48 hours of your arrival. For those landing in Lisbon, email the files to the Lisbon airport vet, as this will expedite the entry process.

Step 3: Transporting Your Pet to Portugal 

Arranging transportation for your pet is one of the more complex steps, particularly if you’re moving a large dog or any animal that cannot fly in-cabin. Here are the options and steps to consider:

Choose an Airline with Pet-Friendly Policies 

Airlines have varying pet policies, and some are more accommodating than others. For instance, Delta does not allow pets as checked luggage on international flights but will accept pets transported by specialized companies. TAP Airlines, however, allows pets to be checked as luggage. When booking flights, be sure to confirm the airline’s pet travel policy.

Selecting a Suitable Pet Crate 

Check your airline’s specifications for pet crates. Most airlines require crates that meet international air transport standards. If your crate has a two-piece construction, secure it with zip ties but wait to tie the crate door until after passing through TSA security. Attach clear contact information on the crate, along with a luggage tag or sticker.

Consider Sedatives for Your Pet 

Some pets may experience high anxiety during flights. While there is debate about using sedatives for animals on flights, consult your vet for safe options if you’re considering it. Do a trial run at home a few days before travel to ensure your pet responds well. For our dog, Riley, this helped ease his nerves without fully sedating him.

TSA and Check-In Procedures 

Arrive early at the airport to allow time for pet check-in and a separate TSA screening for animals. At JFK, for example, there is a designated TSA checkpoint for pets. You’ll need to remove your pet from the crate for a quick inspection before they re-enter and the crate door is secured.

Step 4: Arriving in Portugal and Visiting the Airport Vet 

Once you land in Portugal, you’ll collect your pet at baggage claim. At the Lisbon airport, a vet on-site will review your documents, including the emailed forms, and inspect your pet to verify their health status.

The vet will provide a signed approval form, which costs around €40 (payable in cash). This approval form is essential for passing through customs.

Step 5: Getting an EU Pet Passport 

If you plan to travel with your pet to other EU countries, obtaining an EU pet passport will make your life easier. A pet passport allows unrestricted travel within the EU and requires a visit to a Portuguese vet for issuance.

EU Pet Passport Requirements 

To receive a pet passport, your vet will verify your pet’s vaccination records and perform a microchip scan. Once these steps are complete, your pet will be able to travel freely across EU borders. We’ve traveled with Riley to Spain and France without issues thanks to his EU passport.

Important Resources and Support 

The moving process is complex, and finding reliable resources is crucial. If you’re moving to Portugal, consider joining American & FriendsPT on Facebook. This group is an excellent resource for Americans moving to Portugal, offering a wealth of files and community support. They provide guidance on everything from visa requirements to pet relocation and settling into Portuguese life.

If you’re moving to a different country, you’ll likely find a similar expat-focused Facebook group that can help answer questions and provide support.

Summary of Costs 

Moving a pet abroad can be costly. For us, transporting Riley involved fees for documents, crates, vet visits, and airline charges. In total, we spent over $1,000, which covered:

 • USDA health certificate and vet fees

 • Airline pet fee (about $400)

 • Cost of a compliant pet crate

 • Additional transportation expenses

While there are pet transportation companies and even pet charters that provide hassle-free service, these options can cost between $5,000 and $10,000. If budget allows, these services can make the process easier, but we found that the DIY route worked well for us.

Final Thoughts 

Relocating with a pet requires patience, planning, and a bit of financial investment, but having your furry friend by your side makes the effort worthwhile. While some may consider rehoming their pet to simplify the move, we couldn’t imagine life in Portugal without Riley.

Moving internationally with a pet can be an emotional decision, but with careful preparation, the journey can be a rewarding experience for both you and your pet. From researching airline requirements to securing an EU passport, each step brings you closer to a smooth transition into your new life abroad.