If you are planning to move to Finland with your pet, it is important to know the rules and regulations regarding importing pets into the country. In this article, we will provide information on the restrictions, requirements, and procedures for bringing pets to Finland.
Finland’s Pet Importation Rules
Finland allows the import of pets, but there are restrictions on the types of pets that can be brought into the country.
Restrictions on types of pets
According to the Finnish Food Authority, the import of some animal species is prohibited due to health and environmental concerns. These include all types of monkeys, certain breeds of dogs such as Pit Bull Terriers and American Staffordshire Terriers, and all hybrids of wolves and dogs. If you are unsure about whether your pet is allowed in Finland, you can contact the Finnish embassy or consulate in your home country for more information.
Vaccination Requirements
Before bringing your pet to Finland, it is mandatory that they have certain vaccinations to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
Required vaccinations
The following vaccinations are required for pets entering Finland:
- Dogs: Rabies.
- Cats: Rabies.
It is important to ensure that your pet is up-to-date on all their vaccinations before traveling. You should obtain a vaccination certificate from your veterinarian, which should be presented to Finnish authorities upon arrival.
Importation Application Procedure in Finland
If you are planning to bring your pet to Finland, you must follow a specific application process. The process can be complicated, so it is important to start early and to ensure that you have all the necessary paperwork and documentation.
Required paperwork and other requirements
The following documents and requirements are necessary for importing a pet to Finland:
A health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian in your home country, which confirms that your pet is healthy and free from any infectious diseases.
A certificate of vaccination against rabies, issued by a licensed veterinarian. The certificate should show that your pet has been vaccinated at least 21 days before arrival in Finland, but not more than one year prior.
An electronic identification microchip implanted under your pet’s skin. The microchip should comply with ISO 11784/11785 standards and must be implanted before the rabies vaccination.
An import permit from the Finnish Food Authority. To obtain this permit, you will need to provide the following documents:
A copy of your pet’s health certificate and rabies vaccination certificate.
A copy of your passport or other identification document.
A copy of your flight itinerary.
Payment of the required fees.
Application process
To start the application process, you should contact the Finnish Food Authority. You can find contact information on their website. After submitting the required documents and paying the fees, it may take up to five business days to process the import permit. It is important to note that the permit is only valid for four months from the date of issue, so make sure to plan your travel accordingly.
Quarantine Requirements
There is no mandatory quarantine period for pets entering Finland. However, if your pet shows signs of illness upon arrival, they may be subject to quarantine or other measures to protect public health.
International Travel Scheme
Finland is a member of the International Pet Travel Scheme, also known as the Pet Passport Scheme. This means that pets traveling from certain countries may be able to enter Finland without having to undergo a period of quarantine, as long as they meet the requirements of the scheme. To find out if your pet is eligible for the scheme, you should contact the Finnish embassy or consulate in your home country.
Licensing Requirements
There are no specific licensing requirements for pets in Finland. However, pet owners are required to keep their pets under control and to ensure that they do not cause harm or nuisance to others. In addition, some cities or municipalities may have their own regulations regarding pets, so it is always a good idea to check with local authorities before bringing your pet to a new area.
Relevant Government Websites
If you are planning to bring your pet to Finland, the website of the Finnish Food Authority is a useful resource for information on the requirements and procedures for importing pets. The website is available in both Finnish and English and provides detailed information on the application process, required documents, and fees for importing pets to Finland. You can also find contact information for the Finnish Food Authority if you have any questions or concerns.
Link to the Finnish Food Authority website:
Bringing your pet to Finland can be a complex process, but with proper planning and preparation, you can ensure that your pet is able to make the journey safely and legally. It is important to follow the rules and regulations regarding the import of pets to avoid any delays or problems upon arrival. By obtaining the necessary paperwork, ensuring that your pet is up-to-date on all their vaccinations, and following the application process, you can make the transition to Finland with your furry friend as smooth as possible.