TLA Office · Base Guide
Your dog or cat can make the move with you, with a bit of planning.
Bringing a pet into Germany is straightforward once you know the order the steps happen in. Here is the chain, and the timing that matters most.
Start early, because the timing drives everything
The requirements are not complicated, but they have to happen in the right order, and the rabies step in particular means starting weeks ahead. Plan backward from your travel date so nothing gets rushed at the end.
1. ISO microchip, first
Your pet needs an ISO-compliant microchip (the 15-digit, ISO 11784/11785 type). It has to be in place before the rabies vaccination, because a chip given afterward means the vaccination does not count for entry.
2. Rabies vaccination, after the chip
The rabies shot comes after the microchip. For a first vaccination, your pet waits at least 21 days (or the vaccine manufacturer’s stated immunity period) before entering the EU. If you keep boosters current with no lapse, your pet can travel right after a booster. Keep the vaccination records with you.
3. EU health certificate, USDA-endorsed
A USDA-accredited veterinarian issues the EU (non-commercial) health certificate, and USDA APHIS then endorses it, with an original ink signature, within 10 days of your pet’s arrival in the EU. The certificate is valid for 30 days after issuance. If your pet flies without you, a commercial certificate with tighter timing applies instead.
What Germany does not require
Unlike a few other EU countries, Germany does not require a tapeworm treatment for entry, and there is no quarantine when your pet meets the microchip, rabies, and certificate requirements. Up to five pets can travel on the non-commercial route.
Practical tips for the flight and arrival
- Check your airline’s crate and breed rules, and any summer heat embargoes, early
- Reserve pet space when you book your own seat, since spots are limited
- Keep the original records in your carry-on, not in checked baggage
- Line up a local vet near your new home before you arrive
- Give your pet a few calm days to settle into the new place
Arriving with pets?
Many of our furnished homes work well for families with a dog or cat. Tell us what you need and we will share options that fit.
Frequently asked questions
Does my pet need a microchip?
Yes, an ISO-compliant 15-digit microchip. It must be in place before the rabies vaccination, otherwise the vaccination does not count for entry into the EU.
How far ahead does the rabies vaccination need to happen?
For a first vaccination, at least 21 days before your pet enters the EU, or the vaccine manufacturer’s stated immunity period. If boosters are kept current without a lapse, your pet can travel right after a booster.
Who issues and signs the health certificate?
A USDA-accredited veterinarian issues the EU health certificate, and USDA APHIS endorses it. It must be endorsed within 10 days of arrival and is valid for 30 days after issuance.
Does Germany require a tapeworm treatment or quarantine?
No. Germany does not require a tapeworm treatment for entry, and there is no quarantine when your pet meets the microchip, rabies, and health certificate requirements.
How many pets can I bring?
Up to five on the non-commercial route. Six or more pets, or a pet flying without you, uses the commercial process, which has different timing.
Source: USDA APHIS Pet Travel, United States to Germany (aphis.usda.gov). Requirements can change, so confirm the current rules with your USDA-accredited veterinarian and APHIS close to your travel date.