How to Move Your Pet from the UK to the U.S.: 2026 Step-by-Step Guide

Published on December 29, 2025

Last updated: December 29, 2025

Moving a pet from the United Kingdom to the United States is absolutely doable, but the timing and paperwork need to be spot-on. This 2026 guide walks you through the process in the correct order.

Important: U.S. entry requirements can change without notice, so we recommend planning 4–6 weeks ahead and verifying rules again close to travel.

Quick Overview: UK to U.S. Pet Travel Requirements (Dogs vs. Cats)

If you’re moving a dog from the UK to the U.S. (most common 2026 scenario)

If your dog has been only in the UK (or other CDC “dog rabies-free or low-risk” countries) for the past 6 months, the CDC says the only required document is the CDC Dog Import Form receipt, but your dog must also:

• Be at least 6 months old
  
• Have a microchip detectable with a universal scanner
  
• Appear healthy on arrival
  

If your dog has been in a high-risk dog rabies country within the last 6 months, additional CDC requirements apply.

If you’re moving a cat from the UK to the U.S.

The CDC does not require proof of rabies vaccination for cats entering the U.S. (but recommends it, and states/airlines may require documents).

USDA APHIS says it has no federal animal health requirements for importing a pet cat into the U.S., but you must still follow other agencies’ and state rules.

Special note: Hawaii (and Guam) have their own quarantine rules, even for pets arriving from the U.S. mainland.

Step-by-Step Timeline: How to Move Your Pet from the UK to the U.S.

1–2 Months Before Departure: Planning & Eligibility

1) Start with your timeline (we recommend 4–6 weeks minimum)
WorldCare recommends allowing 4–6 weeks of lead time for a smooth UK-to-U.S. move.

2) Confirm your pet meets the minimum age rule
For UK-to-U.S. travel:

• Dogs and cats under 6 months old should not be imported to the U.S.

3) Gather your existing vet records (before you book final dates)
Send your Pet Relocation Counselor copies of:

• Microchip implant proof (with implant date)
  
• Most recent rabies certificate
  
• General vaccination records (recommended)

Step 1: Microchip (Do This First)

Your pet must be identified by a compliant microchip, and the number must match every document:

• ISO-compliant 15-digit, 9-digit, or 10-digit microchip
  
• Your vet should scan the chip at every appointment
  
• You must have proof of the microchip implant date
  

Why this matters: Mismatched or unreadable chips are one of the fastest ways to trigger travel delays.

Step 2: Rabies Vaccination

Dogs

The rabies vaccination is required to enter the U.S. and must be:

• Given by a UK veterinarian
  
• At least 30 days old and unexpired at the time of entry
  

Your rabies record should include the owner’s name/address, pet details, microchip number, vaccine details, and the vet’s signature.

Cats

The CDC does not require rabies proof for entry, but it’s recommended, and your destination in the U.S. may have additional requirements. Your pet should appear healthy upon arrival.

Step 3: General Vaccinations (Strongly Recommended)

Not always required for border entry, but recommended for travel health and often required for boarding:

• Dogs: DHPP + L + Bordetella (ideally within the last 6 months)
  
• Cats: FVRCP

Step 4: UK Export Paperwork (Leaving the UK)

When traveling to a non-EU country, UK government guidance explains that you may need:

• an Export Health Certificate (EHC)
  
• and (in England/Scotland/Wales) an export application form (EXA)
  

Your pet relocation team can confirm what’s needed based on your exact routing and airline.

Step 5: Your “Must-Have” Documents for Entry & Travel Day

Originals must travel with your pet (copies aren’t acceptable). Plan to have:

• Original International Health Certificate completed by a UK vet
  
• Original rabies certificate
  
• Original microchip scan statement
  
• CDC Import Receipt / CDC Dog Import Form receipt (dogs)
• (Recommended) general vaccination certificates

International Health Certificate Timing

A UK vet must examine your pet and complete the International Health Certificate within 7 days of the intended arrival date. This information can be recorded on a separate “Fit to Fly” certificate, or it can be written in the EU Pet Passport.

The CDC does not require a “general health certificate” for U.S. entry, but airlines and some states can.

CDC Dog Import Form receipt (DOGS ONLY)

 The CDC requires a CDC Dog Import Form receipt for all dogs entering/returning to the U.S., and for dogs coming from low-risk countries it may be the only document required by the CDC.

The receipt must be available:

• To show the airline before boarding (especially if traveling in-cabin or as excess baggage)
• At arrival for U.S. Customs & Border Protection

Step 6: Travel Carrier & Flight Safety Rules

Carrier ventilation requirements (important 2026 detail)

Note these carrier requirements:

• Paw-safe vent openings
  
• Max vent size: 1″ × 1″ for dogs and 3/4″ × 3/4″ for cats

Sedation Policy (Not Allowed)

Sedation is prohibited, and airlines will refuse a pet that appears sedated. We recommend homeopathic options to help keep your pet comfortable during their journey. Consult your veterinarian before giving your pet anything.

Arrival into the U.S.: What to Expect at Customs

U.S. customs clearance is thorough and commonly takes 3–4 hours. While pets are in the customs-controlled area, updates/photos usually aren’t allowed, so there will be minimal updates until your pet clears.

After Arrival: Your First Week Checklist

A few smart “settling in” steps:

• Take your dog on short walks to release nervous energy and reduce joint swelling.
  
• Feed your dog ⅓ of their usual food and water portions, let them rest, then offer another ⅓ portion 2 hours later.
  
• Keep pets on flea/tick prevention.
  
• Plan to register your pet with your local municipality (the process varies by city).
• Monitor your pet closely. Watch for any signs of discomfort or unusual behavior. If something seems wrong, take your pet to the veterinarian immediately.

Common Reasons UK-to-U.S. Pet Moves Get Delayed

Even with perfect paperwork, travel dates can shift due to:

• Temperature embargoes/weather
• Airline capacity (especially during holidays)
• Aircraft changes
• Labor shortages/strikes
• Improper carrier sizing

FAQs: Moving a Pet from the UK to the U.S.

Do I need a rabies titer (FAVN) test for the U.S.?

For typical UK-to-U.S. dog travel under CDC “low-risk country” rules, the CDC focuses on the CDC Dog Import Form receipt, microchip, age (6+ months), and health status. Therefore, your pet generally will not need a rabies titer test.

Can my pet travel with copies of paperwork?

Original health documents must travel with your pet; copies aren’t acceptable.

When should I complete the CDC Dog Import Form?

The CDC notes you can complete it as early as six months before travel (receipt valid up to 6 months, with conditions). Unless your dog visits a different rabies-free/low-risk country or a high-risk country during that time.

Do cats need the CDC Dog Import Form?

No; dogs only. Cats have different CDC/APHIS guidance.

Final Thoughts

A UK-to-U.S. pet move is detail-heavy, but when you follow the steps in order (microchip → vaccines → health certificate timing → CDC receipt for dogs → correct crate/carrier), most pets arrive smoothly and settle in quickly.

Need help relocating your cat or dog from the UK to the U.S.? Request a free quote today.