Published on November 4, 2025
Moving Your Pet from the United States to the Czech Republic
Moving abroad with pets involves multiple steps, from microchipping and rabies vaccination to customs clearance. This guide will break down everything you need to know about relocating dogs and cats to Czechia in 2025. You’ll find timelines, official requirements, approved documents, and answers to the most common questions asked by pet parents.
Note: We recommend at least 1–2 months of preparation before your planned move.
Required Documents for Pet Travel to the Czech Republic
The following original documents must travel with your pet (copies are not accepted for entry):
-
- Czech EU Health Certificate endorsed by the USDA
- Owner Declaration Form signed by the pet owner
- Rabies Vaccination Certificate (must show vaccine details and veterinarian’s signature)
- General Vaccination Records (optional but mandatory for boarding)
- Dogs: DHPP+L (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza, Leptospirosis)
- Cats: FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia)
- Dogs: DHPP+L (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza, Leptospirosis)
- Microchip Certificate & Scan Statement
- International Fit to Fly Certificate (APHIS 7001)
- Signed Customs Power of Attorney Form (If you are working with WorldCare Pet Transport, your Pet Relocation Counselor will provide this.)
- Czech EU Health Certificate endorsed by the USDA
Note: The owner’s name on all veterinary and health documents must exactly match the name on the passport
Step-by-Step Health Requirements
Step 1: ISO-Compliant Microchip (Must Be Done First)
Timeframe: Must be implanted before the rabies vaccination is given.
- Must be ISO-compliant 11784/11785 (15 digits) and scannable by your veterinarian at each visit.
- Proof of the implant date prior to rabies vaccination is required.
Step 2: Rabies Vaccination
Timeframe: Must be given after microchip implantation and be at least 21 days old and less than one year old at entry.
- Must be administered by a USDA-accredited veterinarian.
- A 3-year rabies vaccine is accepted only if there has been no lapse since the primary dose.
Rabies Certificate Must Include:
- Owner’s full name and address (matching passport)
- Pet’s name, species, breed, sex, age, and microchip number
- Vaccine name, manufacturer, batch number, vaccination and expiration date
- Veterinarian’s name, clinic address, license number, and signature
Step 3: General Vaccinations (Recommended, Not Mandatory)
Not mandatory by the Czech government, but highly recommended for safe travel and boarding.
For Dogs:
- DHPP+L (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza & Leptospirosis)
- Bordetella (Kennel Cough) — should be given within the last 6 months
For Cats:
- FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia)
Document Preparation Timeline
| Steps | Document | Timeframe | Completed By |
|---|---|---|---|
| Step 1 | Czech EU Health Certificate & Owner Declaration | Within 10 days of departure | USDA-accredited veterinarian |
| Step 2 | International Fit to Fly Certificate (APHIS 7001) | Within 10 days of departure | USDA-accredited veterinarian |
| Step 3 | Customs Power of Attorney Form | Before Arrival | Pet Owner (WorldCare Pet can provide this form if you are working with us) |
Customs Clearance in the Czech Republic: What to Expect
How Long Does Customs Clearance Take?
Customs clearance in Czechia typically takes 4–6 hours. During this time, pets remain in a customs-controlled area, and photos or updates are not permitted.Pets are given fresh water during the process.
Common Reasons for Delays
Delays may occur if:
- The microchip is not readable or does not match documents
- The rabies vaccine is less than 21 days old
- The owner is not arriving within ±5 days of the pet
- Original documents are missing or incorrect
- Airline delays, labor strikes, extreme temperatures, or cargo overcapacity impact arrival timing
“Paw-Safe” Ventilation Rules for Czechia
Travel carriers must meet updated EU and airline safety standards, requiring smaller vent openings:
| Pet Type | Maximum Vent Opening Size | Required? |
|---|---|---|
| Dogs | 1 inch x 1 inch (2.5 cm x 2.5 cm) | Yes |
| Cats | 3/4 inch x 3/4 in (1.9 cm x 1.9 cm) | Yes |
Pet Travel Safety Reminders
- Sedation: Not allowed. Airlines will refuse any pet that appears sedated.
Ask your counselor about homeopathic calming options, and always confirm with your veterinarian if these are safe for your pet. - Document safety: Originals are required for customs; carry digital copies as backups.
- Tick & flea prevention: Keep pets on monthly preventatives during your stay in Czechia.
- Feeding after arrival: Offer small portions of food and water, wait an hour, then continue gradually.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ): Pet Travel from the USA to the Czech Republic
Does the Czech Republic require a rabies titer (FAVN blood test) for pets?
No. Czechia does not require a rabies titer (FAVN test) if you are traveling from the United States.
Will my pet have to quarantine when they arrive in the Czech Republic?
No. The Czech Republic does not require pets to quarantine.
What is the minimum age of import for pets traveling into the Czech Republic?
Pets must be at least 15 weeks old to enter Czechia.
Helpful Links
- WorldCare Pet Transport
- USDA APHIS Pet Travel – Czech Republic
- Czech State Veterinary Administration
Travel Confidently with WorldCare Pet
At WorldCare Pet Transport, we treat every pet like family. From paperwork to delivery at your new home in the Czech Republic, your Pet Relocation Counselor will be there every step of the way.
For assistance moving your pet from the USA to the Czech Republic, request a free quote today!
Why Pet Parents Trust WorldCare Pet
- USDA & EU documentation handled for you
- Personalized move plans and timeline reminders
- Airline booking, crate guidance, and travel coordination
- 24/7 emergency support during travel
- Trusted partners in Czechia ready to greet and clear your pet through customs
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.