This section is designed to give an overview of what requirements you need to meet to bring a domestic dog or cat into France, from elsewhere in the EU and also from the USA. For more specialised information on other animals or countries of origin, seek advice from the appropriate Ministry or your local veterinarian. Bear in mind that your pet may be affected by the change in climate, if it is dramatically different to that at home.

Bringing cats and dogs from the USA to France:

- The limit is 5 animals per family, all animals have to be 3 months old or more, unless their mother is travelling with them

- All cats and dogs MUST be micro-chipped (ISO standard 11784) or tattooed for identity purposes

- For each animal there must be a recent health certificate (i.e checks carried out and certificate signed no more than 10 days before arrival in France). An official vet must sign the certificate (i.e vet certified by the USDA)

- As of 3rd July 2004, cats and dogs will also need a blood test, proving they have had the rabies vaccination and have the necessary antibody level to fight the disease. This has to happen at least 30 days after the vaccination and no less than 3 months before the animals reach France, so organise this carefully before you leave. Bringing cats and dogs from another EU country to France: