If you are planning to move to Gibraltar 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 Gibraltar.
Gibraltar’s Pet Importation Rules
Gibraltar 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 Gibraltar government, the import of certain types of pets is prohibited. These include all types of snakes, venomous reptiles, and primates. If you are unsure about whether your pet is allowed in Gibraltar, you can contact the Gibraltar Veterinary Clinic for more information.
Vaccination Requirements
Before bringing your pet to Gibraltar, 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 Gibraltar:
- Dogs: Rabies, distemper, hepatitis, and parvovirus.
- Cats: Rabies and feline enteritis.
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 Gibraltar authorities upon arrival.
Importation Application Procedure in Gibraltar
If you are planning to bring your pet to Gibraltar, 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 Gibraltar:
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 Gibraltar, 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 Gibraltar government’s Environmental Agency. 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.
Payment of the required fees.
Application process
To start the application process, you should contact the Gibraltar Veterinary Clinic or the Environmental Agency. 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 one month from the date of issue, so make sure to plan your travel accordingly.
Quarantine Requirements
There is no mandatory quarantine period for pets entering Gibraltar. 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
Gibraltar is not part of the EU Pet Travel Scheme, but it does recognize EU Pet Passports for pets entering the country. However, you should still check with the Gibraltar Veterinary Clinic or the Environmental Agency to ensure that your pet meets all the requirements for entry.
Licensing Requirements
There are no specific licensing requirements for pets in Gibraltar. 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 residential areas 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 Gibraltar, the website of the Gibraltar government’s Environmental Agency is a useful resource for information on the requirements and procedures for importing pets. The website provides detailed information on the application process, required documents, and fees for importing pets to Gibraltar. You can also find contact information for the Environmental Agency if you have any questions or concerns.
Link to the Gibraltar government’s Environmental Agency website:
Gibraltar Environmental Agency
Bringing your pet to Gibraltar 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 Gibraltar with your furry friend as smooth as possible.