Published on October 23, 2025
Last updated:
Pet Travel Requirements: Rabies Certificate (Complete Guide)
Traveling internationally with your pet? One of the most important documents you’ll need is a rabies vaccination certificate. Whether you’re flying to Europe, Asia, or returning to the United States, your pet’s rabies certificate is often the first thing airline staff, veterinarians, customs, and border officials will check.
This guide explains what a rabies certificate is, why it’s required for pet travel, how to get it, what must be included, country-specific rules, and common mistakes to avoid.
What Is a Rabies Certificate for Pet Travel?
A rabies certificate is an official veterinary document proving your pet has been vaccinated against rabies by a government accredited veterinarian using an approved rabies vaccine. It is required for cats and dogs traveling domestically or internationally by air or land.
Note: If you plan to vaccinate your cat or dog against rabies for travel, they must be at least 12 weeks old at the time of their first rabies vaccination.
Why Is a Rabies Certificate Required for Pet Travel?
- Prevents the spread of rabies, a fatal disease.
- Required by airlines, USDA, EU, and most countries.
- Used to verify microchip, vaccine date, validity, and owner details.
- Without it, pets may face quarantine, denied entry, or return to origin.
Rabies Certificate Requirements (Must Include):
| Required Information | Description |
|---|---|
| Owner’s Details | Full legal name, address, and contact information. |
| Pet Information | Species, breed, sex, color, date of birth, and microchip number. |
| Microchip Number & Implant Date | Must be implanted before the rabies vaccine. |
| Rabies Vaccine Date | Exact date of vaccination. |
| Vaccine Validity Period | Valid from __ to __ (1-year or 3-year vaccine). |
| Vaccine Details | Manufacturer, product name, vaccines stickers, serial/batch number. |
| Vet Information & Signature | Name, license number, hand-signed signature, & clinic name/address. |
How to Get a Rabies Certificate for Pet Travel: Step-by-Step
- Microchip Your Pet (ISO 11784/11785 standard)
- Schedule Rabies Vaccination with a Licensed Vet
- Request an Official Rabies Certificate Right Away
- Ensure It Includes All Required Information Listed Above
- For International Travel:
- Get it endorsed by an accredited Vet.
- All original documents should travel with your pets.
- Get it endorsed by an accredited Vet.
Rabies Certificate Validity by Region
| Destination | Rabies Vaccine Rules |
|---|---|
| European Union (EU) | Must be microchipped first. Rabies vaccine is valid after 21 days. 3-year vaccines accepted if labeled accordingly and never lapsed. |
| United Kingdom | Same as EU and treatment for tapeworm (dogs only). No quarantine if all rules are met. |
| USA | CDC requires a valid rabies certificate (specifically dogs). Some high-risk countries require a rabies titer blood test. |
| Australia/New Zealand | Rabies certificate & Rabies Titer test from most countries. An import permit and 10+ day quarantine are mandatory for most countries. |
| Asia & Middle East | Country-specific. Some require Rabies Titer test (Japan, South Korea, UAE ), others only require vaccination. |
Common Mistakes That Cause Pet Travel Delays
- Rabies vaccine given before microchip implantation
- Handwritten certificate with missing lot number or expiration date
- Vaccine not administered by a licensed veterinarian
- Using expired or nearly expiring certificates
- Missing endorsement for international travel
- Rabies titer blood test done before 30 days post-vaccination
Do Pets Need Rabies Boosters to Travel?
Yes, if the current rabies vaccine is expired, will expire before or during travel, or if your pet had a lapse between shots (which makes them “unvaccinated” and usually requires restarting the series). Rules vary by destination, so always check the specific country’s requirements.
Tips to Make Sure Your Rabies Certificate Is Accepted
✔ Use an ISO-compliant microchip
✔ Make sure the vaccine is government-approved
✔ Verify your pet’s name matches passport and vet records
✔ Keep both original and digital copies
✔ Book your vet appointment at least 30 days before travel
Final Thoughts:
A valid rabies certificate is the foundation of international pet travel. Without it, even healthy pets can be denied entry or face quarantine. By ensuring the certificate includes accurate dates, microchip number, vaccine details, and vet signature, you protect your pet’s journey and avoid stressful travel delays.
Need help relocating your pet? Our team is here to assist, reach out today!
Similar Blogs:
- How to Get a Pet Passport: Everything You Need to Know for International Travel
- Understanding AVID Microchips: What Your Need to Know
- Common International Pet Import Requirements
- Rabies Titer Test for Cats and Dogs
- Pet Travel Requirements: Fit to Fly Certificate
Valerie Neyra is the Marketing Coordinator at WorldCare Pet and a proud cat mom to Lucky. She is dedicated to creating resources that simplify domestic & international pet transport. Valerie understands how important pets are to our lives and works to help pet parents feel supported and confident every step of the way during their global moves.