Relocating Pets to France: Basics
Moving to France with domestic animals involves strict adherence to European Union (EU) health regulations and national French laws. These rules are designed to prevent the introduction of rabies and to ensure animal welfare. For the purpose of non-commercial relocation, "pets" are defined as dogs, cats, and ferrets. The rules apply to individuals traveling with up to five animals.
Identification and Microchipping
All pets must be identified by a microchip before any other procedures (such as rabies vaccinations) are performed. The microchip must comply with ISO standard 11784 or 11785. If the chip does not meet these standards, the owner must provide their own microchip reader at the border. Tattoos are only accepted if they were applied before July 3, 2011, and remain clearly legible.
Rabies Vaccination
The animal must be at least 12 weeks old at the time of vaccination. The rabies vaccine must be administered after the microchip is implanted. For a primary vaccination, a waiting period of 21 days is mandatory before the animal can enter French territory. Booster shots do not require a waiting period if the previous vaccine’s validity has not expired at the time of the booster.
Documentation Requirements by Country of Origin
The required paperwork depends on whether the pet is arriving from an EU Member State or a third country (non-EU).
Traveling Within the European Union
Pets originating from an EU Member State, Andorra, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Monaco, Norway, San Marino, Switzerland, or the Vatican City State must have a valid EU Pet Passport. This document is issued by a licensed veterinarian and serves as permanent proof of identification and vaccination status.
Traveling from Non-EU Countries
For pets arriving from outside the EU, a European Union Health Certificate (Annex IV) is required. This document must be signed by an official government veterinarian in the country of origin within 10 days of arrival in France. Additionally, owners must provide proof of the rabies vaccination and a declaration of non-commercial intent.
Rabies Titer Test (High-Risk Countries)
If the animal is arriving from a country with a high incidence of rabies (unlisted countries), a rabies neutralizing antibody titration test is mandatory.
- The test must be performed by an EU-authorized laboratory.
- The blood sample must be taken at least 30 days after vaccination and 3 months before travel.
- The antibody level must be at least 0.5 IU/ml.
Prohibited and Restricted Dog Breeds
France maintains strict regulations regarding "dangerous dogs," categorized into two groups based on morphological characteristics and pedigree. Specific breeds are entirely prohibited from entering French territory.
Category 1: Attack Dogs
These are dogs without a pedigree (non-LOF) whose morphology is similar to the following breeds:
- Staffordshire Terrier or American Staffordshire Terrier (Pitbulls)
- Mastiff (Boerbulls)
- Tosa
Category 2: Guard and Defense Dogs
These are pedigree dogs (LOF) of the following breeds:
- Pedigree Staffordshire Terrier or American Staffordshire Terrier
- Pedigree Tosa
- Rottweiler (pedigree and non-pedigree)
Arrival in France and Mandatory Registration
Upon arrival, if the pet is staying in France for more than three months, it must be registered in the national domestic animal database, I-CAD.
I-CAD Registration Process
Owners must visit a French veterinarian within 8 days of arrival to have the animal's identification verified and to submit the registration paperwork.
- Cost for registration: Approximately 30 EUR ($31.50 USD, Jan 2026).
- Veterinary consultation fee: Typically ranges from 40 EUR to 70 EUR ($42 USD to $73.50 USD, Jan 2026).
Useful Links
- French Ministry of Agriculture - Pet Travel Rules
- French Customs (Douane) - Pet Importation
- I-CAD Official Website
Note: Pets entering France from outside the EU must pass through a designated Border Inspection Post (BIP) for documentary and identity checks. Always verify the specific entry point’s capabilities before booking travel.