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Hungary – Importing a Pet

If you are planning to move to Hungary 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 Hungary.

Hungary’s Pet Importation Rules

Hungary 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 Hungarian government, the import of certain types of pets is prohibited. These include all types of wild animals, such as snakes, lizards, and exotic birds. In addition, some dog breeds are considered dangerous and may be subject to additional regulations. If you are unsure about whether your pet is allowed in Hungary, you can contact the National Food Chain Safety Office for more information.

Vaccination Requirements

Before bringing your pet to Hungary, it is mandatory that they have certain vaccinations to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.

Required vaccinations


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The following vaccinations are required for pets entering Hungary:

  • Dogs: Rabies, distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, and leptospirosis.
  • Cats: Rabies, feline calicivirus, feline herpesvirus type I, and feline panleukopenia.

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 Hungarian authorities upon arrival.

Importation Application Procedure in Hungary

If you are planning to bring your pet to Hungary, 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 Hungary:

  1. 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.

  2. 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 Hungary.

  3. 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.

  4. An import permit from the National Food Chain Safety Office. 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 National Food Chain Safety Office. After submitting the required documents and paying the fees, it may take up to 30 days to process the import permit. It is important to note that the permit is only valid for 30 days from the date of issue, so make sure to plan your travel accordingly.

Quarantine Requirements

All pets entering Hungary are subject to a quarantine period. The length of the quarantine period depends on the country of origin and the vaccination status of your pet. For example, pets coming from a non-EU country, or from a country with a high risk of rabies, are subject to a 4-month quarantine period.

International Travel Scheme

Hungary is part of the EU Pet Travel Scheme, which allows pets to travel freely within the European Union. If you are traveling from an EU country with a valid pet passport, your pet may not need to undergo a blood test before entering Hungary.

Pet license requirements

In Hungary, pet owners are required to register their pets with the local authorities within 15 days of arrival. This registration is mandatory for all dogs and cats over the age of 3 months. To register your pet, you will need to provide the following:

  • A copy of your pet’s microchip registration.

  • A copy of your pet’s vaccination certificate.

  • A valid ID or passport.

  • Payment of the required fees.

Failure to register your pet can result in a fine or other penalties.

Relevant Government Websites

If you are planning to bring your pet to Hungary, the website of the National Food Chain Safety Office 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 Hungary. You can also find contact information for the National Food Chain Safety Office if you have any questions or concerns.

Link to the National Food Chain Safety Office website:

https://portal.nebih.gov.hu/web/nebih-en/pets

Bringing your pet to Hungary requires careful planning and preparation, but with the right documentation and procedures, it is possible 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 Hungary with your furry friend as smooth as possible.