Germany is a popular destination for expats from around the world. It is Europe’s largest economy and therefore, there are a variety of job opportunities across the country.
If you’re planning on moving to Germany, and you have pets in the family, there are certain things you should know before you relocate.
To give you an idea of what to prepare, here’s our guide for moving to Germany with pets.
If you would like to bring your dog or cat into Germany, your pet will need a microchip.
It is a EU requirement that dogs/cats have an identification number.
The microchip (ISO 11784/11785) must be implanted before your pet gets their rabies shot.
Tattoos are accepted if they were done before July 3, 2011.
If you are entering Germany from another EU state or a third listed country, your dog/cat will need proof of a valid immunization against rabies. A primary rabies vaccine must given at least 21 days before entering Germany with your pet.
Your pet must enter Germany before the vaccine expires.
If you are traveling from a non-listed country (such as Israel), your pet must be vaccinated against rabies at least 30 days before you can move forward with the next step.
If you are originating from a non-listed country, prior to your pet’s entry, your pet must pass a rabies antibody blood test with a result of at least 0.5 IU/ml.
The blood sample should be taken at least 30 days after the rabies vaccine and at least 3 months before entering Germany.
The rabies antibody test isn’t needed for pets that will arrive from the EU or a third listed country.
Your pet will need to enter Germany with an EU health certificate done no more than 10 days prior to your pet’s arrival.
There are two types of health certificates: “non-commercial” and “commercial”.
The “non-commercial” health certificate is for 5 or less pets traveling to Germany within 5 days of the owner or designated person.
The import of the following dog breeds (or crossbreeds) are forbidden:
Exemptions for this ban:
Exemption #1: Dangerous dogs accompanying individuals who won’t stay longer than 4 weeks.
Exemption #2: Dangerous dogs that are being reimported back to Germany.
Exemption #3: Security dogs, guide dogs and rescue and civil protection service dogs.
In order to get an exemption, the owner must show the appropriate documents.
Further breeds (and crosses) are classified as dangerous in Baden-Wurttemberg, Bavaria, Brandenburg, Hamburg and Hesse. These breeds can be found on Zollamt’s website.
Moving a dog or cat to Germany can be done in many ways.
If you are planning to enter Germany by air, please note that your pets can fly in-cabin, in the hold as excess luggage or in the hold as manifest cargo.
Here are some frequently asked questions about importing a pet into Germany:
Question #1: Do I need an import permit to bring my dog into Germany?
No, dogs and cats don’t need an import permit to enter Germany.
Question #2: Are the import requirements the same as for other EU countries?
Most of the EU countries have the same pet import requirements. There are minor differences here and there.
Question #3: Can you help me bring my Pitbull into Germany?
Unfortunately, we can’t assist with bringing a Pitbull into Germany.
Question #4: I have more than 5 pets. What do I need to do?
If you have more than 5 pets, you will need to fly them with a commercial health certificate.
A commercial health certificate should be done within 48 hours of your pets’ flight.
Question #5: My dog’s microchip was implanted after the rabies vaccine was given. Do I need to revaccinate him?
According to the import requirements, the microchip should be implanted before the rabies vaccine is given. If your dog didn’t have a microchip when the rabies vaccine was given, you will need to get him revaccinated once he’s chipped.
Let us help you prepare your pets for a smooth and successful move.
Whether you are moving from Africa, Asia or the US, we can assist you throughout the process!
Our knowledge and resources allow us to provide the highest quality services from start to finish.
Please feel free to contact us for a quote if you think you’d like some help arranging your move.
We would love to hear from you!
