Belgium (BE)
Belgium is a small but densely populated federal kingdom at the crossroads of Western Europe, split across three linguistic regions — Dutch-speaking Flanders, French-speaking Wallonia, and bilingual Brussels — and famed for its medieval cities, world-class beer and chocolate, and its role as the de facto capital of the European Union.
Bringing Pets to Belgium
Requirements, costs and process for relocating with your pets.
Vaccinations
Restricted Breeds
💰 Costs
EU intra-community movement: €0–100 (veterinary health certificate from country of origin). From non-EU countries with tapeworm treatment required (e.g., UK): €40–80 for vet treatment before departure. Veterinary costs in Belgium: consultation €50–90, annual vaccines €60–120, pet passport update €20–40. Annual dog tax (hondentaks) in most Belgian communes: €25–75/year per dog.
📋 Relocation Process
For EU pets entering Belgium: 1) Ensure your pet has a valid EU Pet Passport with ISO microchip and up-to-date rabies vaccination. 2) No border controls or registration required at entry — just ensure documentation is valid. 3) Register your dog with your commune within the first month (most communes have a dog register / hondentaks). 4) Register with a Belgian veterinarian as soon as possible. For non-EU pets (from UK, USA, etc.): 1) Microchip (ISO 15-digit) must be implanted before rabies vaccination. 2) Rabies vaccination must be up-to-date. 3) If arriving from UK or tapeworm-risk countries: Echinococcus (tapeworm) treatment 24–120 hours before entry. 4) Official health certificate issued by government-approved vet in country of origin. 5) Travel via approved entry points at Brussels Airport (BRU).
Belgium is a very pet-friendly country with designated off-leash areas (losloopweides / aires de détente pour chiens) in most communes. Dogs must be kept on a leash in public spaces unless in designated areas. Dog fouling is strictly enforced — fines of €50–250. The Belgian animal welfare organisation (Dierenwelzijn Vlaanderen / Bien-Être Animal) provides guidance on animal registration and reporting animal abuse. Cats do not require registration in most communes. Annual rabies vaccination is not compulsory in Belgium (unlike some countries), but is required for re-entry to many countries if you travel with your pet.