Before importing or traveling with a pet, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with the regulations regarding the animal's travel. In the EU legislation, there are two definitions that determine the conditions for entering the EU: MOVEMENT and IMPORT. To determine which category applies to the specific travel, please read the descriptions below and proceed to the appropriate page.
If needed, you can seek advice from the border veterinarian at: kolmasmaa@ruokavirasto.fi
Movement of dog, cat or ferret
The term "Movement" refers to situations where the animal's travel is connected to the travel of its owner, and the pet is not passed on to another person within the EU. This includes scenarios such as:
- Moving to the EU from a country outside the EU.
- Tourism-related travel (returning from a trip abroad).
- Personally acquiring a new pet from outside the EU.
In these situations, the pet and its accompanying documents will be checked by Customs, and a veterinary border inspection is not required.
Please proceed to the page for MOVEMENT for further information.
Import of dog, cat or ferret
The term "Import" applies when the travel of the animal is not connected to the travel of its owner. This includes situations such as:
- The animal travels alone.
- The animal is intended for further transfer or sale within the EU.
- The number of individuals of one species exceeds five animals.
- The time between the travels of the animal and the owner is more than five days.
In these situations, a veterinary border inspection is necessary upon entry to the EU.
Please proceed to the page for IMPORT for further information.