A potential new deal between the UK and EU may soon ease the travel process for British pet owners wishing to take their animals to Europe. A draft agreement, slated for a November 20, 2026 approval, aims to reinstate pet passports, previously used to confirm that pets were microchipped and vaccinated against rabies. This changes the current costly and complicated system requiring an Animal Health Certificate (AHC), which is valid only for single trips and can cost up to £300.
The hopes are high with new Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s administration appearing to foster improved UK-EU relations, with the potential for rejoining the Erasmus youth travel program also on the table. The broader 200-page draft agreement, focusing on sanitary and phytosanitary regulations, could significantly benefit the UK economy by easing trade barriers for exports and eliminating costly health certificates.
As global goodwill builds, many are optimistic about the implications for pet travel and broader trade between the UK and EU.
