Belgium is a small European country known for its chocolate, waffles, and beer. If you’re planning on moving to Belgium and bringing your pet with you, it’s important to know the requirements for importing pets into the country. In this article, we’ll answer some frequently asked questions about importing pets into Belgium.
Belgium’s Pet Importation Rules
Belgium allows the import of pets. However, there are restrictions on which types of pets can be brought into the country.
Restrictions on types of pets
Dogs, cats, and ferrets are the only types of pets that are allowed to enter Belgium. Other types of pets, such as reptiles, birds, and rodents, are not allowed to enter the country.
Pet Vaccination Requirements in Belgium
All dogs, cats, and ferrets must have a valid rabies vaccination. The vaccination must be administered at least 21 days before the date of travel.
It’s important to note that these vaccination requirements are subject to change, so it’s a good idea to check with the Belgian embassy or consulate in your home country before traveling.
Importation Application Procedure in Belgium
To import a pet to Belgium, you’ll need to complete some paperwork and meet certain requirements.
Paperwork
You’ll need to provide the following documents when entering Belgium with your pet:
- A valid pet passport or health certificate
- Proof of vaccination (rabies)
- Import declaration
Requirements
In addition to the paperwork, there are some requirements that you’ll need to meet when bringing your pet to Belgium:
- Your pet must be microchipped. The microchip must be ISO compliant and readable by a device that conforms to ISO standards.
- Your pet must have a valid rabies vaccination.
- Your pet must undergo a clinical examination by a veterinarian within 10 days of travel.
Period of quarantine needed to import a pet to Belgium
There is no mandatory quarantine period for dogs, cats, or ferrets entering Belgium from another EU country or a country with a low incidence of rabies. However, if you’re traveling from a high-risk country, your pet may need to undergo a blood test and a 3-month quarantine period.
Belgium and international travel scheme for pets
Belgium is part of the European Union and the European Economic Area, which means it participates in the Pet Travel Scheme (PETS). The PETS scheme allows pets to travel between certain EU countries and other countries with similar animal health requirements without the need for quarantine.
If you’re traveling to Belgium from a PETS country, your pet will still need to meet the requirements for entering Belgium, including a valid rabies vaccination.
Pet Licences in Belgium
There is no requirement to obtain a license for your pet in Belgium. However, it’s important to note that some municipalities may have their own regulations regarding pet ownership, such as leash laws or limits on the number of pets per household. It’s a good idea to check with the local authorities in your area to find out about any specific regulations that may apply to your pet.
Pet Importation Resources for Belgium
The Federal Public Service Health, Food Chain Safety, and Environment website provides information about the requirements for importing pets into Belgium. The website is available in Dutch, French, and German and can be accessed at: https://www.health.belgium.be/en/animals-and-plants/animals/pets/travel-and-transport
The website provides detailed information on the import requirements for dogs, cats, and ferrets, as well as information on traveling with pets by car, train, or airplane. It also provides contact information for the relevant government agencies that can assist with any questions or concerns you may have about importing your pet into Belgium.
Bringing your pet to Belgium requires careful planning and preparation to ensure that you meet all the necessary requirements. Dogs, cats, and ferrets are the only types of pets allowed to enter the country, and they must have a valid rabies vaccination. In addition, you’ll need to complete the necessary paperwork, including obtaining an import declaration, and meet the requirements for microchipping and clinical examination.
While there is no mandatory quarantine period for dogs, cats, and ferrets entering Belgium from certain countries, pets from high-risk countries may need to undergo a blood test and a 3-month quarantine period. It’s important to check the current requirements before traveling to Belgium with your pet.
Belgium participates in the Pet Travel Scheme, which allows pets to travel between certain EU countries and other countries with similar animal health requirements without the need for quarantine. However, pets still need to meet the requirements for entering Belgium, including a valid rabies vaccination.
Overall, with careful planning and preparation, you can bring your furry friend with you to enjoy the beautiful sights and sounds of Belgium.