Bringing a cat from the UK to Portugal: rules 2026

Prepared by the Animals Productions editorial team. See about us and our editorial standards.

Taking a cat from the UK to Portugal is a popular post-Brexit route for UK expats. The UK is EU-listed, so no titer test is needed, and cats avoid the tapeworm treatment requirement, making this one of the simpler UK-to-EU pet moves.

Destination requirements

1. ISO microchip. Rabies vaccination — pet ≥12 weeks; valid from day 21.
2. Titer (only from “unlisted” third countries): ≥30 days after vaccination, ≥0.5 IU/ml, entry ≥90 days after the draw. Not needed from the EU/listed.
3. Arrival notice (“Aviso de chegada”) to the entry point. Certificate — EU Animal Health Certificate (official services, 10 days) or EU pet passport.
4. Tapeworm — not required for Portugal.
5. Breeds — national “dangerous” list (Pit Bull, Rottweiler, Dogo Argentino, Fila, Tosa, Staffordshire) — verify for import.
6. Limit 5. No quarantine. Entry vet fee ~€42.25 (1 animal).

EU 2026: Regulation (EU) 2026/131 applies from 22 Apr 2026; old-format certificates valid only if issued before 1 Oct 2026.

Official sources

• DGAV — Entering Portugal from outside the EU ↗
• European Commission — Bringing a pet from a non-EU country ↗

FAQ

Do I need a titer test to bring a cat from the UK to Portugal?

No. The UK is EU-listed since November 2022 — no titer test for cats.

Do cats from the UK need a tapeworm treatment for Portugal?

No. Tapeworm treatment applies only to dogs entering certain EU countries — not cats, and not Portugal.

How do I get the EU AHC for my cat in the UK?

Book a UK Official Veterinarian (OV) through an APHA-approved practice. The Annex II EU AHC is valid for 10 days to entry into Portugal.

Is there quarantine in Portugal for cats from the UK?

No quarantine for cats with complete EU AHC documentation.

Related

We provide information only and do not offer relocation services. Rules change — always confirm with the official source above.