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Poland – Importing a Pet

If you are planning to move to Poland with your pet, it is essential to understand the rules and regulations for importing pets into the country. This article provides information on importing pets to Poland, including restrictions, vaccination requirements, paperwork, quarantine, licensing, and relevant government websites.

Restrictions on importing pets to Poland

Poland allows the import of pets, but there are specific regulations and requirements to ensure the safety of the country’s flora and fauna. The type of pets that can be brought into Poland is limited, and some species are prohibited. The restricted and prohibited species are determined by the Polish Veterinary Inspection (PVI).

Dogs, cats, ferrets, birds, and ornamental fish are the only species allowed to be imported into Poland as pets. Other species such as rodents, reptiles, and primates are prohibited. For example, chinchillas, hedgehogs, and sugar gliders are not allowed to be imported.

Vaccination Requirements

All pets imported to Poland must have a valid health certificate, which includes vaccination requirements. Dogs and cats must be vaccinated against rabies at least 21 days before entering Poland. Additionally, dogs must be vaccinated against distemper, hepatitis, and parvovirus, while cats must be vaccinated against calicivirus, herpesvirus, and panleukopenia.

Furthermore, all pets must be microchipped and have a valid EU pet passport. The pet passport must include information on the pet’s vaccinations, identification, and health status.

Application procedure and paperwork

To import a pet to Poland, you must follow specific procedures and complete the required paperwork. The first step is to obtain an EU pet passport from an authorized veterinarian in the country of origin. The pet passport includes information on the pet’s vaccinations, identification, and health status.


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Once you have obtained the EU pet passport, you must ensure that your pet meets all the requirements, including vaccination, microchipping, and testing. You must also obtain a veterinary health certificate from a government-approved veterinarian in the country of origin.

Furthermore, all pets must undergo a mandatory inspection by a government-approved inspector upon arrival in Poland. The inspector will verify the pet’s paperwork and may require additional documents or inspections, depending on the circumstances.

Quarantine Requirements

If your pet meets all the import requirements, there is no mandatory quarantine period for dogs, cats, and ferrets entering Poland from EU member states or listed third countries. However, if your pet is found to have an infectious disease upon arrival, the Polish Veterinary Inspection may order a quarantine period.

If you are importing a bird or ornamental fish, you do not need to quarantine them unless they are found to be infected with a contagious disease.

International travel schemes for pets

Poland is part of the European Union (EU), which means that pets imported from other EU member states or listed third countries can travel freely within the EU using an EU pet passport. Additionally, Poland recognizes the PETS travel scheme in the UK, which allows pets to travel between the UK and EU member states using an EU pet passport.

If you are traveling from a non-EU country, you should check with the Polish Veterinary Inspection for the specific requirements and procedures.

Licensing Requirements

In Poland, there is no specific license requirement for owning a pet. However, if you own a dog, you must ensure that they are registered with the local government and have a dog tag. Additionally, certain dog breeds are subject to specific regulations and restrictions.

It is essential to check with the local authorities in your area for the specific regulations and requirements.

Relevant Government Websites

The Polish Veterinary Inspection (PVI) is the primary government agency responsible for regulating and overseeing the import of pets to Poland. The PVI provides useful information and guidelines on the requirements and procedures for importing pets to Poland.

The PVI website includes information on vaccination requirements, paperwork, quarantine, permits, and other regulations. You can also find information on the specific requirements for importing dogs, cats, ferrets, birds, and ornamental fish.

To access the PVI website, visit https://www.wetgiw.gov.pl/.

Importing your pet to Poland can be a challenging but rewarding experience. The regulations and requirements for importing pets are strict to protect the country’s unique flora and fauna.

To ensure a smooth and hassle-free import process, you must obtain the necessary paperwork, including a valid EU pet passport and veterinary health certificate. You should also ensure that your pet is microchipped and has a current rabies vaccine.

If you are traveling from a non-EU country, you may face additional requirements and procedures. It is essential to check with the Polish Veterinary Inspection for the specific regulations and requirements.

By following the regulations and requirements, you can ensure the safe and comfortable travel of your furry friend and enjoy your new life in Poland.