Moving to Portugal is full of exciting opportunities—warm sunshine, relaxed living and a slower pace of life. But for many of us, it just wouldn’t feel like home without our beloved pets by our side. The good news is, yes, you can bring your dogs, cats and even ferrets with you to Portugal, whether you’re relocating permanently or heading there part-time post-Brexit. Of course, it’s worth doing your research before bringing your pets to Portugal.
In 2025, Portugal remains one of Europe’s friendliest destinations for pet owners. From coastal walks to pet-friendly cafés, your furry (or scaly) travel companions will feel just as welcome as you do. But there are a few steps you’ll need to take before moving to ensure it’s a smooth, stress-free journey for both of you.
Let’s explore everything you need to know – from the paperwork to public attitudes – so you and your pet can start your Portuguese adventure off on the right paw.
Contents
- How animals are treated in Portugal
- Taking pets to pets to Portugal post-Brexit
- Understanding the animal health certificate
- Living with pets in Portugal: practical considerations
- Adopting a pet in Portugal
- Frequently asked questions
Bringing your pets to Portugal takes work but it’s worth the effort
How animals are treated in Portugal
Portugal has made significant progress in animal welfare over the past decade. Since 2017, Portuguese law has recognised pets as sentient beings – not property. This means their wellbeing must be considered in legal matters such as divorce or property claims. It’s a strong cultural signal that animals are valued members of the household.
Pets enjoy a fairly high standard of living in Portugal. Dogs, in particular, are common companions and are often seen out on long walks or lounging beside a café table. In most towns and cities, pets are welcome on public transport – provided they’re clean, well-behaved and meet health requirements. Larger dogs might need to wear a muzzle and be kept on a lead.
In summer, if you take pets to Portugal they can roam more freely on beaches that don’t have lifeguards. In winter, all beaches are open to them. A few coastal towns, like Peniche, even have beaches dedicated specifically for dogs. That said, don’t expect the same dog-friendly pub culture as in the UK – while some restaurants and cafés are happy to have animals in outdoor seating areas, it’s not always guaranteed.
For more information about purchasing property abroad, grab your free copy of our Portugal Buying Guide:
Taking pets to Portugal post-Brexit
Since the UK left the European Union, travelling with pets has changed significantly. Pet passports issued in Great Britain are no longer valid for entry into EU countries, including Portugal. Instead, you’ll need to follow a more regulated process to ensure your pet meets entry requirements.
Here’s what you’ll need before you travel:
- A working microchip (ISO 11784/11785 compliant)
- Up-to-date rabies vaccination (must be given after the microchip)
- An animal health certificate (AHC) issued by an official veterinarian
- Tapeworm treatment (dogs only) if you’re travelling to Finland, Ireland, Malta or Northern Ireland
The animal health certificate is crucial and replaces the now-defunct GB pet passport. It must be issued within 10 days before travel and is valid for entrance to the EU for 10 days, for EU travel for four months and for return to Great Britain for four months. Each certificate is single-use, so you’ll need a new one every time you visit the EU.
Pet passports issued in Northern Ireland or any acceptable EU country are still valid, so if you regularly travel between the UK and the EU, talk to your vet about whether obtaining one through an EU-based vet is realistic.
These rules apply to dogs, cats and ferrets only. If you’re travelling with other pets (like birds or reptiles), check with the Portuguese embassy or your vet for specific requirements.
Understanding the animal health certificate
The animal health certificate (AHC) is the most important document post-Brexit. It confirms your pet meets EU conditions and is officially eligible to travel. Your vet must be an ‘official veterinarian’ (not all vets are), and they’ll prepare the form in both English and Portuguese or French.
The AHC includes:
- Microchip number and date of insertion
- Rabies vaccination record (including vaccine batch number)
- The issuing vet’s signature and certification stamp
When travelling, carry the original document – not a copy. Border officials may decline entry if your papers are missing, incomplete or inaccurate. Each AHC allows for travel with up to five pets unless you’re attending a recognised event like a dog show or competition.
Costs vary but usually range from £100-£250 in the UK, depending on your vet and the complexity of the consult. Be sure to book your AHC appointment well in advance of your travel date – as the certificate must be issued no earlier than 10 days before departure, timing is crucial.
Living with pets in Portugal: practical considerations
Once you arrive in Portugal, life with your pet begins in earnest. The good news? Portugal is a wonderful place for four-legged friends. But it’s important to be aware of a few day-to-day realities.
Firstly, pet registration is a legal requirement. Dogs must be registered with your junta de freguesia (local parish council) after they reach three months of age. Most owners also take this opportunity to licence their pet. This costs around €15–€25 per year, depending on the region. Annual vaccination and ID validation might also be required.
Veterinary care in Portugal is of a high standard, though it can be more expensive than in the UK. A basic consultation might cost €40–€60, while more complex surgeries or treatments can climb higher. Good health insurance for pets is available, but not all expats opt for it – some prefer to budget annually for anticipated care.
Portugal’s climate is another consideration. During the hottest summer months, it’s preferable to walk your pet early in the morning or after sunset to avoid overheating. Provide plenty of shade and fresh water at all times. Ticks, fleas and leishmaniasis remain present in southern areas, so it’s worth consulting your vet about preventative treatments.
Adopting a pet in Portugal
Many expats fall in love not just with the country, but with one of Portugal’s many stray animals. While the sight of feral cats or off-leash dogs in rural areas might come as a surprise, they’re common, especially in the interior regions.
Adoption is a noble choice. But before you take in an animal, have it checked by a local vet. Many stray animals may already have owners, even if they appear uncared for. Microchipping is becoming more common, and a quick scan will confirm ownership.
Health concerns are another factor. Unvaccinated strays may carry parasites or transmissible diseases, so an initial vet inspection is essential. If you do decide to adopt, many local shelters and associações de protecção animal (animal protection associations) will support you through the process – many even have volunteers who speak English.
In cities like Lisbon or Porto, you’ll find organised pet charities with adoption events, while in the Algarve or Alentejo the process might be more informal – often facilitated through expat Facebook groups or rescue groups. Adopting a rescued animal can be incredibly rewarding, especially if you’re committed to offering a safe and loving home.
Ready to make Portugal home for you and your pet?
At Your Overseas Home, we know how important pets are to family life. So if you want to take your pets to Portugal you should talk to our team of relocation experts, local property consultants and legal partners are here to help make your move smooth – for every member of your household, furry or otherwise.
For more expert guidance, local tips and property advice, book a free consultation with us today. We’ll help you plan everything from the paperwork to settling down in a home that both you and your pet will love.
Frequently asked questions about bringing pets to Portugal
Can I bring my pet to Portugal after Brexit?
Yes. UK pet passports are no longer valid in the EU, but you can bring dogs, cats and ferrets to Portugal by following the EU travel rules. This includes a working microchip, valid rabies vaccination and a single-use Animal Health Certificate (AHC) issued within 10 days of travel.
Do pets need to be registered once in Portugal?
Yes. Dogs must be registered at your local junta de freguesia by the age of three months. Licensing costs vary by region and may also require proof of vaccinations and microchip ID validation.
Is Portugal a pet-friendly country?
Yes. Pets are legally recognised as sentient beings in Portugal. Dogs are welcome in many public areas, including some beaches and public transport (with restrictions). However, access to indoor cafés or restaurants may be limited compared to the UK.
How much does veterinary care cost in Portugal?
Basic consultations usually cost €40–€60. Complex treatments or surgeries can be more expensive. While pet insurance is available, many owners prefer to budget for annual care. Preventative treatment is especially important in warmer regions where ticks and leishmaniasis are present.
Can I adopt a pet once I’ve moved to Portugal?
Yes. Many local shelters and rescue groups offer support with adoptions. Before adopting a stray, check for a microchip and have a vet inspect for health issues. Urban areas have more formal adoption events, while rural regions may operate informally through local contacts or expat networks.
