🇺🇸➡️🇪🇺 Flying With a Pet From the US to Europe: Step-by-Step 2026 Guide

The US-to-Europe route is one of the most common for pet travelers. The good news: it's very doable if you plan ahead. The EU has clear, standardized rules, and USDA endorsement is straightforward. Here's your step-by-step timeline.

Timeline Overview

Step 1: Microchip

Your pet must have an ISO 15-digit microchip implanted before the rabies vaccination. If your pet already has a US 9 or 10-digit chip, you'll need to bring your own universal reader or get an ISO chip implanted alongside it.

Step 2: Rabies Vaccination

The EU requires rabies vaccination at least 21 days before entry for first-time vaccinations. If your pet has a current booster within the validity period of the previous vaccine, there's no waiting period.

Important: The microchip number must be recorded on the rabies certificate. If it's not, the vaccination may not be considered valid.

Step 3: Book With Your Airline

Call your airline to reserve a pet spot. Popular routes (especially summer JFK→CDG, LAX→LHR) fill up fast. Best airlines for US→Europe:

• Air France: Cabin + cargo, great for CDG connections across Europe
• Lufthansa: Cabin + cargo, Frankfurt hub connects everywhere
• Delta: Cabin only, direct to many EU cities
• United: Cabin + PetSafe cargo

Compare all airline policies.

Step 4: Vet Exam + Health Certificate

Schedule a vet appointment 5–7 days before departure. Your vet will:

1. Examine your pet
2. Complete the EU health certificate (Form 7001 for dogs/cats)
3. Verify microchip and vaccination records

The certificate must be completed by a USDA-accredited vet.

Step 5: USDA APHIS Endorsement

After your vet signs the health certificate, it must be endorsed by USDA APHIS. You have two options:

• USDA VEHCS (online): If your vet uses the Veterinary Export Health Certification System, endorsement can be done electronically in 1–2 days
• Mail/in-person: Send or bring the certificate to your local USDA APHIS office. Takes 2–3 business days.

Cost: $38 per certificate.

The endorsed certificate is valid for 10 days from the date of the vet exam.

Step 6: Returning to the US

Good news: returning to the US with your pet is much simpler. The US requires:

• Dogs: proof of rabies vaccination (CDC requirement). As of 2024, dogs must also enter through an approved port of entry with a CDC Dog Import Form.
• Cats: no federal requirements (but check your state)

Get your complete US→Europe pet travel plan from PawGo with exact dates for every step.