A new agreement at the upcoming EU-UK summit on November 20 in Brussels could reintroduce pet passports, making it easier for travelers with dogs, cats, and ferrets to cross the Channel. This initiative aims to enhance cooperation between the EU and UK, part of a broader “reset” strategy embraced by current Prime Minister Andy Burnham.
The deal is expected to encompass a sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) agreement on food trade, granting the UK access to the EU electricity market, and introducing a youth mobility scheme. The SPS agreement will eliminate checks on food and animal products, allowing for the use of EU pet passports by UK holidaymakers, provided the UK aligns its animal and food standards with EU regulations.
Previously, British travelers were required to obtain an Animal Health Certificate for each trip to the EU after losing access to pet passports following Brexit. The return of pet passports will enable multiple trips within the EU without the need for a new certificate each time.
This agreement is anticipated to take effect around mid-2027, although travelers will still need to use the Animal Health Certificate in the interim. Further details on traveling with pets into the EU from non-EU countries can be found on the EU’s official website.
