Bringing your furry friends along for a new life under the Spanish sun can feel daunting, but – as any local will tell you – Spain is a country that genuinely loves its animals. Of course, moving to Spain with pets does require a fair bit of paperwork and a strong handle on the latest rules, especially for those journeying from outside the EU. Knowing what’s involved ahead of time makes the whole process of moving to Spain with pets much smoother, ensuring your four-legged companion can settle in just as quickly as you do.
Key requirements for moving to Spain with your pet
Moving your dog, cat, or ferret to Spain isn’t rocket science, but it does involve following some strict rules set by both the Spanish authorities and the EU. The exact requirements will depend on where you're travelling from.
Microchip
All pets must be microchipped with an ISO 11784/11785 compliant 15-digit chip. If your pet has a different type of chip, you’ll need to bring your own scanner or have the chip changed.
Rabies vaccination
Pets must have a valid rabies vaccination, which should be administered after the microchip. Pets have to wait 21 days after the jab before travelling.
Pet passport or Health Certificate
For those coming from an EU country (or Northern Ireland), a valid EU Pet Passport covers you.
If you’re coming from the UK, you’ll need an official Animal Health Certificate, issued by an authorised vet no more than 10 days before entering Spain. UK-issued ‘Pet Passports’ are no longer valid for entry. They must be replaced by the Animal Health Certificate.
Entering Spain
Pets should arrive through an approved EU entry point – major airports and ferry ports are set up for this. A customs declaration may be required on arrival, and spot checks are possible, so keep all paperwork handy.
Other restrictions
Certain crossbreeds (like wolf-dog hybrids, most pit bull types, some exotic cats) are restricted or not admitted under Spanish rules.
Maximum number
You’re allowed to import up to five pets per person, unless you’re attending a competition or sporting event and can prove it with supporting documents.
Bringing dogs into Spain: a step-by-step process
Moving your dog to Spain is straightforward if you follow the process closely and keep your documents organised.
1. Plan ahead and check entry rules
If you’re travelling from the UK or US, you’ll need an Animal Health Certificate issued by an authorised vet within 10 days of travel. Double-check Spain’s current entry requirements and whether your country needs a rabies titre test.
2. Microchip and vaccination
Make sure your dog is microchipped first (ISO-compliant chip), and has an up-to-date rabies vaccine. The rabies jab must be done after the chip and at least 21 days before travel. For non-EU arrivals from ‘unlisted’ countries (such as the US, for now), a rabies blood test taken at least 30 days after the vaccine is also needed, with a three-month wait after a successful result before travel.
3. Documentation
- EU residents: Use an EU Pet Passport (if you already have one).
- From the UK: Get an Animal Health Certificate from your vet. UK-issued pet passports aren't valid for EU entry anymore.
- From the US/other non-EU: Official EU Health Certificate from an accredited vet.
4. Travel arrangements
- Plane: most airlines allow dogs in the hold (and sometimes in the cabin for smaller breeds). Each airline has its own rules on crate size, weight, and documentation, so check these ahead of time. Dogs must travel in IATA-approved carriers and have access to water.
- Car: if crossing from the UK or elsewhere in Europe, make sure every country you transit recognises your documents and that your dog is secure in the vehicle.
- Ferry: most ferries from the UK to Spain (e.g., Brittany Ferries) provide kennels or designated pet cabins and will need to see your documents at check-in.
5. Arrival in Spain
Land at an approved EU entry point. Customs, if present, may check your papers and your dog for visible signs of illness.
6. Registering locally
Some regions in Spain require pets to be registered at the local town hall (ayuntamiento) shortly after arrival—this is worth checking with your local authority.
Costs of moving to Spain with a dog
Moving your dog is definitely not free—costs vary by route and pet’s size, but you can expect to pay around €3,500 for the whole relocation.
- Vet fees for microchipping, vaccinations, and any blood tests (around €60–€350 total, depending on your country).
- Animal Health Certificate in the UK typically costs between €120–€295.
- Airline fees for flying your dog: Cabin travel (for small dogs) usually €60–€175; in the hold, often €290–€700 depending on weight and distance.
- Ferry kennels are usually €30–€90 per crossing.
- Pet carrier or crate: €45–€230 for an IATA-approved size.
Living in Spain with pets: what expats need to know
Settling into Spanish life with your four-legged companion is usually straightforward, but there are a few things worth knowing so you and your pet can fit right in.
Registering your pet locally
In many regions, you’re required to register your dog (and sometimes cats or ferrets) at the local town hall (ayuntamiento) not long after you arrive. This usually involves providing proof of microchipping and vaccinations. Some municipalities also require you to pay an annual dog ownership tax, though it’s typically modest.
Getting set up with a vet and pet healthcare
Pet healthcare is generally high-quality in Spain and reasonably priced, but it’s worth considering pet insurance, especially for higher-cost treatments or emergencies. If your dog is considered a "potentially dangerous breed" (razas potencialmente peligrosas), you’re expected to get extra paperwork and third-party liability insurance.
Pet-friendly culture and public spaces
Spanish towns and cities are often very pet-friendly, with dogs a familiar sight in parks, on terraces, and even inside some shops. You’ll find dedicated dog zones (pipicanes), especially in larger towns. While dogs are generally welcome in public spaces, local etiquette means you’ll need to keep your dog on a lead in most public areas and always clean up after them. Not all beaches allow dogs in summer. Look out for signed dog-friendly beaches (playas para perros).
Legal obligations and new laws
Spain has recently tightened animal welfare laws, increasing penalties for neglect or mistreatment and strengthening owners’ responsibilities. Since 2023, a new Animal Welfare Law requires all pet owners to complete a free online training course (curso de tenencia responsible). It’s now also prohibited to leave dogs tied up outside shops or in cars without supervision.
Finding pet-friendly housing in Spain
Finding a good flat or house that accepts pets is crucial for a smooth move. While more Spanish landlords are warming up to pets, it still pays to clarify rules before signing a contract.
Look for listings that explicitly state pets are allowed ("se admiten mascotas").
Larger cities and certain neighbourhoods – like many in Madrid or Barcelona – have a decent range of pet-friendly flats.
Some landlords may ask for an extra deposit or a reference from a previous landlord or vet.
When searching online, use the filter for pet-friendly properties to avoid wasted viewings.
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