Everything You Should Know About the International Pet Health Certificate

The international health certificate is required for pets traveling abroad. Any cat, dog, or ferret leaving its home country must have this certificate. In this article, we cover everything you need to know about this official veterinary document: how to get it, how much it costs, and how long it remains valid.

What Is an International Pet Health Certificate?

 The international health certificate for pet travel is an official document issued by accredited veterinarians, certifying that your pet (ferret, dog or cat) is healthy and fit for travel. It confirms that your pet meets the health requirements and vaccination regulations of the destination country, including the mandatory rabies vaccination for non-EU countries, and that it has been properly identified with a microchip.

This health certificate is one of the key travel documents required by most airlines policies to allow pets on their flights, whether they are travelling in the cabin, in the hold or by cargo. It helps prevent any issues such as denied boarding or quarantine upon arrival at your destination.

When and for Which Animals Is It Required?

 International pet health certificates are required for three species of animals: cats, dogs, and ferrets. Whether you are traveling to Canada with your dog or heading to Japan with your cat, this certificate is a mandatory requirement that your pet must meet to cross borders smoothly and without complications.

How to Obtain a Pet Health Certificate for International Pet Travel?

The steps to obtain an international pet travel health certificate for dogs, cats, and ferrets is straightforward: simply schedule an appointment with a certified veterinarian. The vet will perform a complete medical exam of your pet, verify its vaccinations and European passport (or vaccination booklet, if applicable), and confirm that it is fit for travel.

Once all regulatory requirements are met, the pet health certificate is issued—often in a bilingual format (French and English)—signed by the veterinarian and endorsed by the Departmental Directorate for Population Protection (DDPP) in your area if you are a French resident. This health certification document serves as official proof that your pet is in good health before traveling internationally.

What Other Documents Are Required to Travel with Pets Abroad?

Depending on the country of origin and destination, several veterinary documents may be required:

• The European Pet Passport
• Proof of rabies vaccination
• Microchip identification number
• Export forms or country-specific annexes for non-EU destinations
• Proof that the travel crate complies with IATA standards

Please note that some destination countries may also require specific tests, treatments, or additional vaccinations with supporting documentation to ensure the animal meets all entry requirements.

These travel documents must accompany your pet throughout its journey to ensure compliance with health regulations and to avoid any penalties for non-compliance with the country requirements. 

What Is the Cost of an International Pet Health Certificate?

The price for this veterinary export health certification may vary depending on the veterinarian and the destination. On average, you can expect to pay between €40 and €90, with additional fees possible for vaccinations, official translations, or required serological tests.

We recommend starting the process early and planning several months ahead to avoid any delays or expiration issues before your departure.

For How Long Is It Valid?

The validity period of the international health certificate is temporary and depends on the destination country. This document is valid for a maximum of 10 days from the date on which it has been issued. Your pet must therefore leave the country of origin before this period expires. After that, a new veterinary visit and good health certificate will be required.

What Are the Consequences of a Non-Compliant International Pet Health Certificate?

An incorrect, incomplete, or expired certificate may result in your pet being denied boarding, placed in quarantine, or refused entry into the destination country.

Failure to comply with health regulations may also lead to administrative penalties.

Before traveling with live animals, make sure to check the requirements on the website of the Department of Agriculture and ensure that you have completed the necessary paperwork required by the destination country.