Pet Travel Guide
Bringing Your Pets to Cyprus: The Complete Guide (2025)
For many expats, family isn't complete without their furry companions. Moving your pets to a new country requires careful planning to ensure their safety and compliance with all regulations. This CyExpats.com guide provides a clear, step-by-step process for bringing your cat or dog to Cyprus, making the journey as smooth as possible for every member of your family.
The Most Important Rule: Plan ahead! The process involves specific waiting periods after vaccinations. You cannot rush it. Start discussions with your vet several months before your planned travel date to create a clear timeline.
✈️ Planning your pet's move is a critical part of your overall relocation budget. To get a sense of all the expenses involved, from shipping to initial setup costs, check out our Relocation Costs Calculator.
Key Requirements at a Glance
The rules for bringing a pet to Cyprus depend on your country of origin. The EU is divided into three categories: EU Member States, listed Third Countries with low rabies incidence (like the UK, USA, Canada), and unlisted Third Countries with a higher risk of rabies.
| Requirement | From an EU Country | From a Listed Country (e.g., UK, USA) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Document | Valid EU Pet Passport | Animal Health Certificate (AHC) issued within 10 days of arrival. |
| Microchip | ISO 11784/11785 compliant 15-digit microchip implanted **before** rabies vaccination. | |
| Rabies Vaccination | Must be given when the pet is at least 12 weeks old. Must wait at least **21 days** after the primary vaccination before travel. | |
| Rabies Antibody Test | Not required. | Not required. (This is only for pets from high-rabies, unlisted countries). |
| Tapeworm Treatment | Not mandatory for entry into Cyprus, but highly recommended by vets for your pet's health. | |
Your Pet's Travel Timeline: A Step-by-Step Guide
Use this timeline to plan your pet's relocation. This example is for a pet traveling from a non-EU listed country like the UK or USA.
3+ Months Before Travel
Consult Your Vet: Discuss your travel plans. Confirm your pet's microchip is working and ISO compliant. Check their vaccination records and ensure they are up to date on all routine shots, not just rabies.
Research Airlines: Not all airlines are licensed to carry pets. Contact airline cargo departments to understand their specific rules, crate requirements (IATA-compliant), and costs. Book your pet's flight early.
Minimum 21 Days Before Travel
Administer Rabies Vaccine: If your pet's rabies vaccination has lapsed or it's their first one, it must be administered now. The 21-day waiting period is non-negotiable and begins the day after the vaccination is given. The microchip must be implanted *before* this vaccination.
Within 10 Days of Arrival in Cyprus
Obtain the Animal Health Certificate (AHC): This is the crucial step for non-EU travelers. You must visit an official or government-accredited veterinarian. They will examine your pet, verify all documentation (microchip, rabies vaccine), and issue the official AHC. This certificate is only valid for 10 days, so timing is critical.
48 Hours Before Arrival
Notify Cypriot Authorities: You must inform the District Veterinary Officer at your point of entry (Larnaca or Paphos airport) of your pet's arrival. You need to provide your flight number, date, and time of arrival. This is usually done by filling out an online form or sending an email.
Day of Travel
Ensure your pet is comfortable in its IATA-compliant travel crate. Attach all original documents (AHC or Pet Passport) to the crate in a waterproof wallet. Arrive at the airport with plenty of time to check your pet in with the airline's cargo department.
Important Considerations
- Banned Breeds: Cyprus prohibits the import of the following breeds: Pit Bull Terrier (or American Pit Bull), Japanese Tosa (or Tosa Inu), Dogo Argentino (or Argentinian Mastiff), and Fila Brasileiro (or Brazilian Mastiff).
- Points of Entry: Pets can only enter the Republic of Cyprus through Larnaca (LCA) and Paphos (PFO) international airports, or the ports of Limassol, Larnaca, and Paphos.
- Arrival Inspection: Upon arrival, your pet and its documents will be checked by a Veterinary Officer. If all paperwork is correct, your pet will be released to you without quarantine. You will need to pay a small inspection fee.
Official Resources: