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Can I bring my pets to Portugal?

Yes, absolutely! Many of our clients successfully relocate with their cats and dogs. We have first-hand experience with this, as we relocated PTP’s beloved mascot, Dutch, in 2021!

Because achieving each step in the exact right order and timeline is critical, we can connect you with our partner to streamline the process and eliminate any stress on your big day.

Here is a general overview of what you need to know for a non-commercial move (where your pet travels around the same time as you):


1. Medical & Paperwork Requirements

  • Microchip: Your pet must be microchipped prior to receiving their rabies vaccination.
  • Rabies Vaccine: Must be up-to-date and administered at least 21 days before the move.
  • EU Health Certificate: USA-origin pets need a bilingual EU Health Certificate (Annex IV) completed by a USDA-accredited vet and endorsed by USDA APHIS.
  • Timing is tight: you only have a 10-day window to travel after it is endorsed!
  • Notice of Arrival: You must submit a DGAV "Notice of Arrival" form (along with scanned docs) to the Point of Entry Veterinary (PEV) at your arrival airport at least 48 hours before landing.

(Note: A Titer Test is not required for pets coming from the USA, but may be required from other countries).


2. Flight Logistics & Arrival

  • Approved Airports: Pets can only arrive at specific designated airports (Lisbon, Porto, Faro, Beja, Funchal, Terceira, and Ponta Delgada).
  • PEV Operating Hours: The airport veterinary office (PEV) is not open 24 hours. Your flight arrival must match their operating hours.
  • Vet Inspection: Upon arrival, pets undergo a document review and physical inspection (costing around $50/€40). No quarantine is required as long as all steps were followed!
  • Cabin vs. Cargo: Depending on the airline, small pets can usually fly in the cabin, while larger dogs must fly as checked baggage/cargo in IATA-approved crates.
  • Summer Embargoes: Many airlines restrict pet travel during peak summer months due to high temperatures, so plan your moving dates accordingly.

3. Life in Portugal with Your Pet

  • Local Registration: Once in Portugal, you have 30 days to register your dog with your local parish (Junta de Freguesia). Your new Portuguese vet will also register their microchip in the national system (SIAC).
  • Restricted Breeds: Portugal has strict regulations for certain breeds (e.g., Pit Bull Terrier, Rottweiler, American Staffordshire Terrier, etc.). If you own a restricted breed, specific compliance steps are required.
  • Finding a Rental: Important consideration! Bringing an animal can significantly reduce the available inventory for long-term rentals, as many Portuguese landlords do not accept pets, or it may increase rental prices.