Article by Maria Pinheiro  - Lawyer at International Atlantic Services

Portugal is increasingly recognized as a pet-friendly country, offering a welcoming environment for both humans and animals. However, for foreign nationals planning to relocate to Portugal with their pets, it is essential to understand the legal and administrative procedures that must be followed. This guide outlines the official requirements for bringing companion animals - primarily dogs, cats, and ferrets - into Portugal.

1. General Entry Requirements

The entry of pets into Portugal is governed by Regulation (EU) No 576/2013, which establishes the conditions for the non-commercial movement of pet animals within the EU and from third countries. The requirements vary depending on whether the animal is arriving from an EU Member State, an approved third country, or a non-listed third country.

a. Microchip Identification: all dogs, cats, and ferrets must be identified by a microchip compliant with ISO 11784/11785. If the microchip is not ISO-compatible, the owner must provide their own microchip reader. The microchip must be implanted before or on the same day as the rabies vaccination.

2. Rabies Vaccination

Vaccination against rabies is mandatory for all pets entering Portugal: a) The animal must be at least 12 weeks old at the time of vaccination; b) The vaccine must be administered by an authorized veterinarian; c) A 21-day waiting period after vaccination is required before the animal is eligible to travel (unless it is a booster shot within the validity period of the previous vaccine).

3. Documentation Requirements

The necessary documents depend on the country of origin:

a. From an EU Member State: EU Pet Passport, issued by an authorized veterinarian in the country of origin. Must include: Identification details (microchip); Rabies vaccination record; Owner information;

b. From a listed third country (e.g., USA, UK, Canada, Australia): EU Health Certificate (Annex IV of Regulation 577/2013), issued and endorsed by the official veterinary authority of the country of departure; Rabies vaccination certificate; Owner Declaration stating that the movement is non-commercial and the animal is either accompanying the owner or will be reunited within 5 days. The certificate is valid for entry into the EU for 10 days from the date of issuance;

c. From a non-listed third country: same as above, plus a mandatory rabies antibody titration test: the test must be carried out at an EU-approved laboratory; a minimum titer of 0.5 IU/ml is required. The test must be performed at least 30 days after rabies vaccination, and 3 months before travel. This waiting period is waived if the animal had a successful titer test prior to traveling and maintained valid vaccination coverage.

4. Border Control and Entry Procedures

Pets arriving in Portugal must enter through designated points of entry (DPE) and undergo veterinary checks when coming from outside the EU. You must notify the Border Inspection Post (BIP) at the airport in advance (typically via the airline). The pet and its documentation will be checked by an official veterinarian.

5. After Arrival in Portugal

a. Registration at the Local Junta de Freguesia: once in Portugal, dogs must be registered with the local municipal authority (Junta de Freguesia) within 30 days of arrival or within 30 days of reaching 3 months of age. The Required documents are: identification/microchip certificate; vaccination record; rabies certificate; proof of residency.

b. Licensing: dogs must be licensed annually.

For certain breeds (see below), additional requirements apply, such as liability insurance and behavioral assessments.

6. Special Considerations

a. Number of Pets Allowed: the general limit is up to 3 dogs and 4 cats, or a total of 6 pets per household. To keep more than this, a special license must be obtained from the municipality, depending on space and health/safety conditions.

b. Restricted Dog Breeds: Portugal regulates the ownership of certain breeds classified as potentially dangerous under Portuguese Law Decree No. 315/2009. These breeds include Pit Bull Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Rottweiler, Dog Argentino, Fila Brasileiro and Tosa Inu. Owners of these breeds must: obtain a special license; maintain liability insurance; ensure animals are always leashed and muzzled in public; undergo behavioral training if applicable.

7. Pet Travel Within Portugal

Dogs and cats are generally allowed on most forms of public transportation in Portugal - including trains, buses, and metros - provided that dogs are leashed and muzzled, cats are kept in carriers, and no additional fee is typically required.

So, relocating to Portugal with a pet involves careful planning and compliance with EU and national regulations. Ensuring your pet is properly identified, vaccinated, and documented is essential to avoid delays or denial of entry. Once in Portugal, pet owners must also comply with local licensing and registration rules.

With the correct preparation, Portugal offers a safe, welcoming environment for both people and their pets.