Bringing a dog from the USA to Spain: rules 2026
Relocating a dog from the United States to Spain is one of the simpler EU routes. Because the USA is an EU-listed country, you skip the rabies titer test entirely — the timeline is short and predictable.
Destination requirements
- ISO microchip — before the rabies vaccination.
- Rabies vaccination — ≥12 weeks; wait ≥21 days.
- Titer test — only from an “unlisted” country (≥30 days after vaccination, ≥90 days before travel, ≥0.5 IU/ml). Not needed from the EU / listed countries.
- Certificate — non-EU: EU Animal Health Certificate (10 days, authority-endorsed; USDA APHIS from the USA). EU / return: EU pet passport.
- Tapeworm treatment — not required.
- Breeds — no import ban. Spain regulates “potentially dangerous dogs” (PPP) via a licence (RD 287/2002): Pit Bull, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire, Rottweiler, Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro, Tosa Inu, Akita Inu and crosses — municipal licence, insurance, muzzle and a lead under 2 m. (Reform under Ley 7/2023 — verify current municipal requirements.)
- Quarantine — none if met; under 15 weeks not admitted; enter via an authorised point (PEV) with a declaration.
Official sources
- MAPA — Viajar con perros, gatos y hurones ↗
- European Commission — Bringing a pet from a non-EU country ↗
- BOE — RD 287/2002 (potentially dangerous dogs) ↗
- ✓ ISO 11784/11785 microchipping before rabies vaccine timeline
- ✓ Rabies titer blood test (RNATT) & mandatory 90-day waiting period
- ✓ Airport transit zone regulations, international vet certificates & EU pet passport
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FAQ
Do I need a rabies titer test to bring a dog from the USA to Spain?
No. The USA is an EU-listed country, so no titer test is required — only the microchip, rabies vaccination and a USDA-endorsed EU Animal Health Certificate.
How long before travel should I start?
Allow about 3–4 weeks: the rabies vaccine needs a 21-day wait, and the EU certificate is valid only 10 days, so schedule the USDA endorsement close to departure.
Is there quarantine for dogs in Spain?
No quarantine when your paperwork is complete and correct.