Country Compliance
Belgium Pet Import Requirements
Official veterinary regulations, microchip standards, rabies rules, and breed restrictions for entering Belgium.
1. Microchip & Identification
Dogs, cats and ferrets must be marked by the implantation of a transponder approved by the competent authority. Marking by a clearly readable tattoo is authorized if applied before 3 July 2011.
2. Rabies Vaccination
Dogs, cats and ferrets must be vaccinated against rabies as follows:
- the animals must be at least 12 weeks old at the time of vaccination;
- the vaccine must comply with the requirements set out in Annex III to Regulation (EU) No 576/2013;
- at the day of dispatch to the Union, at least 21 days must have elapsed since the completion of the primary vaccination against infection with rabies virus;
a certified copy of the vaccination details must be attached to the animal health certificate
3. Titre Tests & Bloodwork
Dogs, cats and ferrets coming from non-EU countries or territories listed in part I of Annex VIII to Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2021/404 for which the specific condition “rabies antibody titration test” applies must undergo the test as follows:
- must be carried out on a sample collected by a veterinarian authorised by the competent authority during the period commencing at least 30 days after the date of the primary vaccination, within a current valid vaccination series, and ending 3 months before the date of issue of the certificate;
- must measure a titre of neutralising antibody to rabies virus equal to or greater than 0,5 IU/ml;
- must be certified by an official report from the official laboratory as regards the result, and a copy of this report must be attached to the animal health certificate accompanying the animals to the Union;
- does not have to be renewed on an animal which, following the antibody rabies titration test with satisfactory results, has been revaccinated against rabies within the period of validity of the primary vaccination and all subsequent valid vaccinations in the series.
4. Quarantine Requirements
None
5. Customs & Import Rules
For an accompanied arrival or when Brussels is not the first point of entry in the EU, it is possible for owners to handle customs clearance by themselves, but it is highly recommended to find out the details in advance. (different locations, costs etc, depending on the airline of arrival)
For non-accompanied arrival, if Brussels is the first point of entry in the EU, the assistance of a broker is required.
Done-for-You Service
Belgium's import rules are complex. We handle them.
Customs paperwork, health certificates, timing windows — our specialists coordinate it all for your Belgium move, from vet sign-off to border clearance.
Get a Belgium Relocation QuoteCommon Questions
Belgium pet travel — frequently asked
Are there breed restrictions for pets entering Belgium?
No specific breed bans are listed for Belgium at this time. All pets must still meet microchip, vaccination, and documentation requirements.
Does Belgium require quarantine for dogs and cats?
Yes, quarantine requirements apply for pets entering Belgium. See the Quarantine Requirements section for holding periods, conditions, and approved facilities.
What documents do I need to bring my pet to Belgium?
Pets entering Belgium typically require an ISO 11784/11785-compliant microchip, a valid rabies vaccination, and a health certificate from an accredited veterinarian, plus a rabies titre (antibody) test. Requirements vary by origin country — check each section above for the most current rules.
Popular Airlines
Airlines flying pets to Belgium
Each airline has its own breed restrictions, weight limits, and cargo embargo windows. Check policies before you book.
