Great Britain → the EU
Animal Health Certificate for dogs: UK cost, timing and checklist
An AHC is the trip document an Official Veterinarian issues for a non-commercial journey from Great Britain to the EU with a dog, cat or ferret. It is not the same as the vaccination booklet from your normal vet.
Rules and airline policies last reviewed 21 August 2026
GOV.UK currently states: enter the EU within 10 days of issue; after entry, the AHC is valid for onward EU travel and re-entry to Great Britain for six months, subject to rabies validity and destination treatments. You still need a new AHC for the next trip from Great Britain.
- Issuer
- Official Veterinarian
- Pets per AHC
- Up to 5
- EU entry
- Within 10 days of issue
- Price
- Set by the veterinary practice; no single official tariff
In the right order
Your step-by-step checklist
- 1
Before the appointment window
Confirm your vet has an OV
Not every vet can sign an AHC. Ask for the practice's document fee and what records they need.
- 2
Before booking the AHC visit
Check rabies timing
A primary rabies vaccination needs at least 21 full days, and some products may require longer. The microchip must be recorded first.
- 3
Within 10 days before EU entry
Attend with the pet and records
Bring proof of microchip date and vaccination history. The OV must examine the pet.
- 4
At the appointment
Proofread every field
Check microchip number, dates, owner details, destination and signatures. A typo can stop boarding.
- 5
Outbound and return
Keep it for the whole trip
Carry the original. Add any required tapeworm treatment in the correct section and retain it for Great Britain re-entry.
Plain-English answers
Frequently asked questions
How much does an Animal Health Certificate cost?
There is no government-set consumer price. Veterinary practices set their own fee, which may vary with number of pets, urgency and other treatment. Ask for the full written price before booking.
How early can I get an AHC?
It must be issued so that you enter the EU within 10 days. Book the appointment earlier, but attend inside that window.
Is an AHC valid for multiple holidays?
No. You need a new AHC each time you leave Great Britain to enter the EU, even though the document can cover onward travel and the return within the same trip.
Verified, not vibes
Official sources
These rules and policies were checked on 21 August 2026. Use the links below for the final check immediately before travel.