Planning a move to France but worried about bringing your pet with you? You’re not alone. For many of us, pets aren’t just animals – they’re family. Whether you’re relocating for a new lifestyle, buying your dream home in the Dordogne or spending long summers in Provence, your dog or cat will want to come too. So, you should learn now how to take your pets to France.
Since Brexit, pet travel has become a bit more complicated – but it’s definitely doable with the right planning. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the latest 2025 rules, how to get your paperwork sorted, and what to expect when crossing the Channel. We’ll also cover the best ways to travel with pets, vets in France, and how to settle your furry friend into their new surroundings.
Contents
- Current pet travel rules for 2025
- Getting an animal health certificate (AHC)
- How to travel to France with your pet
- Settling your pet into life in France
- Adopting or rescuing animals in France
- Frequently asked questions
It’s a little work but you can take your pets to France with the right paperwork
Current pet travel rules for 2025
As of 2025, pet travel between the UK and the European Union still follows rules put in place after Brexit. The old style of British-issued EU pet passports is no longer valid. That means if you’re travelling from Great Britain (England, Scotland or Wales), you’ll need to follow a new set of procedures.
To legally bring your dog, cat or ferret into France, your pet must have:
- A working microchip (ISO 11784/11785 compliant)
- A valid rabies vaccination (at least 21 days before travel)
- An Animal Health Certificate (AHC), issued for each trip to the EU
If you’re travelling from Northern Ireland, or you have a pet passport from an EU country or another approved nation (such as Switzerland or Norway), your documents may still be accepted. But if you’re travelling from Great Britain, you’ll most likely need the AHC. These rules apply whether you’re bringing your pet for a short stay, long-term visit or permanent relocation.
It’s essential to plan ahead – don’t leave these tasks until the last minute. Getting your pet paperwork sorted can take a couple of weeks, and without it, you may be refused entry at the border.
For a closer look at purchasing a property abroad, claim your free copy of our France Buying Guide:
Getting an animal health certificate (AHC)
The Animal Health Certificate (AHC) replaced the old pet passport system for UK-based travellers heading to the EU. An AHC is your pet’s official travel document – and you’ll need a new one for each visit. Even if you’re someone who pops back and forth several times a year, the certificate doesn’t carry over to future trips.
You can add up to five pets to a single AHC. The certificate must be issued by an Official Veterinarian (OV) in the UK. Make an appointment with your vet for no more than 10 days before you travel – this timeframe cannot be stretched. If there’s a delay or your paperwork isn’t right, you could be refused entry into France.
To smooth the process, bring these details to your vet:
-
- Date of microchipping
- Details of previous travel (if relevant)
Once issued, the AHC is valid for:
- Travel to the EU and Northern Ireland within 10 days
- Onward travel within the EU for up to 4 months
- Return to Great Britain within 4 months
If you’re planning long-term stays or multiple visits per year, it may be worth discussing options for keeping rabies vaccinations and microchip records consistently updated for smoother future travel.
How to travel to France with your pet
When you take your pets to France, most people choose practical, pet-friendly routes – usually by ferry or the Channel Tunnel. This allows you to bring your pet in your own vehicle, making the process far more comfortable and less stressful for both of you.
Here’s a breakdown of the most popular options:
Ferry travel
Some ferry services offer pet-friendly cabins or designated pet areas. On shorter routes, your pet may need to remain in the car. On longer crossings – such as Portsmouth to St Malo – pet cabins can be reserved, giving you peace of mind. Check with the individual operator, as rules vary by route.
Eurotunnel (Le Shuttle)
This remains a top choice for pet owners. You stay in your car during the 35-minute crossing – ideal for nervous animals. The Eurotunnel even has pet exercise areas on both sides, and they’re known for efficient pet check-in services.
By air
Flying with pets is less common due to restrictions, costs, and the stress it may cause animals. Only certain airlines and routes accept pets, and they usually must travel in the hold. Most people relocating with pets prefer to drive unless a flight is unavoidable.
Tips for a smooth journey
- Bring water, familiar bedding and toys for comfort
- Stop regularly during long drives
- Ensure your pet is used to the car before travel day
- Never leave your pet unattended in a hot vehicle
Make sure your pet’s microchip is registered with your current contact details and label their collar with both your UK and French numbers just in case they go missing.
Settling your pet into life in France
France is famously pet friendly. In towns, villages and even in the countryside, you’ll find dogs welcomed in cafés, bars and shops. It’s not unusual to see pooches resting under tables as owners enjoy a glass of wine. For cats, rural France can be paradise – quieter roads and more open space mean they can roam more safely.
Vet care is high quality and often more affordable than in the UK. A consultation might cost as little as €30, making regular check-ups and treatments more accessible. However, insurance remains a good idea, especially for older pets or breeds prone to health issues.
When you arrive:
- Register your pet with a vétérinaire
- Download Google Maps or Doctolib to help locate local vet clinics
- Keep vaccination records up to date, especially rabies
If you’re in a property with land, check local fencing standards. French fencing often differs from UK styles, so make sure your garden is truly secure before letting dogs off-lead.
You’ll also find thousands of chemins (walking paths) crisscrossing the countryside – perfect for long walks and hikes. In summer, keep in mind that ticks are common in rural France. Ask your vet about preventative treatments and consider a dog tick remover as part of your pet kit.
Adopting or rescuing animals in France
If you’re already in France – or planning a longer stay – you may consider adopting a new furry friend while you’re there. France has a wide network of rescue organisations, with the Société Protectrice des Animaux (SPA) being the best known. They run shelters throughout the country and follow good ethical standards for adoption.
Rescue centres often house abandoned pets, strays and animals given up by owners who can no longer care for them. By adopting through an official shelter, you support valuable work and give a deserving animal a second chance.
Adoption costs usually include microchipping, vaccination and sterilisation. You may have to complete an interview or home visit, particularly for dogs. If you’ve moved into a countryside house, think about how much outdoor space you have and whether your chosen breed is suited to the lifestyle.
Many expats also choose to volunteer at rescue centres or become foster parents. It’s a great way to integrate into your local community and build relationships, all while doing something meaningful.
If your pet is seeking a French companion, adopting locally may be just the thing.
The work is worth it to take your pets to France, they’ll help you feel at home
Taking your pets to France may take some additional planning now, but it’s absolutely achievable. Start early, keep your documentation in order and choose your travel method carefully. Once you settle in, you’ll find that France is not only welcoming to animals – it’s often better suited to a pet-friendly life than their original home.
Got questions about buying in France or finding the right pet-friendly area? Speak to one of our property experts today.
Whether you’re walking your dog through a vineyard, adopting a second cat, or simply enjoying the ease of French vet care – you and your pet are going to love this new chapter.
Frequently asked questions about taking your pets to France
Can I take my pet to France from the UK after Brexit?
Yes, but you’ll need an Animal Health Certificate (AHC), a valid rabies vaccination, and a working microchip. These must be in place before travel. Pet passports issued in Great Britain are no longer valid for EU entry.
What is an Animal Health Certificate (AHC)?
The AHC is a travel document issued by a UK vet for each individual trip to the EU. It confirms your pet’s health status and vaccination history and must be issued within 10 days of travel. It’s valid for up to four months in the EU.
What’s the best way to travel to France with a pet?
Most people choose to travel by ferry or Eurotunnel. Eurotunnel is popular as you remain in your vehicle the whole time. Flying is possible but less common due to cost and airline restrictions on animals in the hold.
Is France a pet-friendly country?
Yes. France is very pet-friendly. Dogs are often welcome in cafés, shops and markets. Veterinary care is widely available and generally more affordable than in the UK, with consultations starting at around €30.
Can I adopt a pet while living in France?
Absolutely. France has a strong network of animal shelters like the SPA. Adoption usually includes vaccinations and microchipping. Many expats also volunteer or foster animals, which is a great way to give back and meet locals.
