Changes to pet passports to strengthen travel scheme - GOV.UK
Changes to the pet travel scheme have been introduced.
www.gov.ukHere’s what’s happening with pet passport rules right now, focusing on the latest developments you’re likely to encounter traveling from France or the UK to the EU.
-
Major changes in 2026: The EU tightened rules for pet travel, including greater scrutiny at borders, tighter documentation, and moves toward a more digital verification system. This affects non-EU travelers (like UK residents) and may require updated health certificates and pre-registration in some cases.[3][5][9]
-
UK-specific shifts: In 2026 there’s significant discussion and media coverage around UK residents needing an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) instead of the old EU pet passport for travel to the EU, with some sources noting a transition period and ongoing guidance from official bodies. If you’re traveling from the UK to the EU, verify whether your pet needs an AHC and what documentation is required for your destination country.[5][9]
-
Older baseline rules still in effect in many contexts: Traditionally, pets require microchips, rabies vaccination with appropriate timing, and a valid veterinary certificate or passport. Some countries still operate with country-specific forms or certificates, even as digital verification expands.[2][7]
-
What this might mean for you in Marseille: If you’re traveling from France to EU destinations, border checks and digital verification steps may apply, but France remains part of the EU pet-travel framework, so expect stricter checks and clearer electronic verification pathways. Always ensure your pet’s microchip is up to date and that rabies vaccinations and certificates meet the latest border requirements.[7][3]
Illustration (example scenario)
- Before travel: Confirm microchip status, ensure rabies vaccination is current, and obtain the latest health certificate or pet passport format required by your destination. Prepare any online pre-registration or online health data if your destination country requires it.[3][5]
If you’d like, I can tailor a quick checklist for your specific route (Marseille to a particular EU country) and confirm what certificates you’ll need for your travel dates. Please share your destination country and planned travel window.[5][3]