Moving to Spain with Pets — Complete Guide

Spain is one of the most pet-friendly countries in Europe. Valencia has wide parks, beach access for dogs (seasonal), and excellent veterinary care. But the paperwork to get your pet here depends on where you're coming from.

From the EU (Including Ireland)

If you're moving from another EU country, the process is straightforward:

1. Microchip: ISO 11784/11785 compliant (15-digit). Must be implanted before the rabies vaccination
2. Rabies vaccination: Must be current and administered at least 21 days before travel
3. EU Pet Passport: Issued by any EU-authorised vet. Contains vaccination records and microchip number

That's it. No quarantine, no additional certificates. Present the passport at check-in and on arrival. Spain accepts the EU pet passport at face value.

From the UK (Post-Brexit)

Since Brexit, UK pet passports are no longer valid for EU travel. You now need:

1. Microchip (same as above)
2. Rabies vaccination (current, 21+ days before travel)
3. Animal Health Certificate (AHC): Issued by an Official Veterinarian (OV) in the UK within 10 days of travel. This replaces the old EU pet passport
4. Tapeworm treatment (dogs only): Administered by a vet 1–5 days before entry to Spain. Must be recorded on the AHC

Cost: The AHC costs £100–200 depending on the vet. It's valid for one entry into the EU, for 10 days after issue (for the initial journey) and then for 4 months of travel within the EU.

Once in Spain, you can get an EU pet passport from a Spanish vet, which is valid for all future EU travel. This is a one-time cost of €20–50.

From the USA, Canada, and Australia

Non-EU countries are classified as either "listed" (rabies-controlled) or "unlisted" (high-risk). The USA, Canada, and Australia are listed countries, which simplifies the process:

1. Microchip
2. Rabies vaccination (21+ days before travel)
3. EU Health Certificate: Completed by a USDA/CFIA/DAFF-accredited vet, then endorsed by your national authority (USDA-APHIS in the US, CFIA in Canada). Must be issued within 10 days of departure
4. TRACES NT certificate: The EU's electronic notification system. Your endorsed health certificate is entered into TRACES by the issuing authority or at the EU border

No quarantine required from listed countries. No blood titre test needed (that's only for unlisted countries).

Flying with Pets to Valencia

In the Cabin

Most airlines allow small dogs and cats (under 8–10 kg including carrier) in the cabin. The carrier must fit under the seat in front of you. Airlines with good pet-in-cabin policies:

• Iberia: Up to 8 kg (pet + carrier). €50–150 depending on route
• Vueling: Up to 10 kg. €40–60 intra-EU
• Air Europa: Up to 8 kg. €25–50 domestic/EU
• Ryanair: Does NOT allow pets in cabin or hold (only guide dogs)

In the Hold

Larger dogs travel in the pressurised, temperature-controlled cargo hold. This is standard and safe, though stressful for some animals. Cost: €100–300 depending on airline and crate size.

Pet Transport Companies

For large dogs, multiple pets, or long-distance moves (US/Australia), dedicated pet transport companies handle everything door-to-door: customs paperwork, airline-approved crates, temperature monitoring, and delivery to your Valencia address. Expect €500–2,500 depending on origin and animal size.

On Arrival in Valencia

1. Register with a local vet within 2 weeks — they'll scan the microchip and issue a Spanish health card (cartilla sanitaria). If you came from the EU, they can issue an EU pet passport on the spot
2. Register your pet with the Valencian Community animal register (RIVIA) — your vet can do this. It links your pet's microchip to your Spanish address. Required by law in Valencia
3. Get pet insurance (optional but recommended) — Third-party liability insurance (seguro de responsabilidad civil) for dogs is mandatory in Valencia for certain breeds and recommended for all. Costs €50–150/year

Pet-Friendly Valencia: What to Expect

• Parks: Jardín del Turia (9km park) is dog-friendly. Multiple off-leash areas (pipicanes) throughout the city
• Beaches: Playa de Pinedo allows dogs year-round. Malvarrosa and Patacona are dog-free June–September
• Restaurants: Most terrazas (outdoor terraces) welcome dogs. Indoor varies — always ask
• Rentals: Finding pet-friendly apartments in Valencia is easier than in most Spanish cities. About 40% of Idealista listings accept pets. Expect a slightly higher deposit
• Vets: Excellent quality. Emergency 24-hour clinics available (Hospital Veterinario Valencia Sur, AniCura). Average consultation: €30–60

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