Greece (GR)
Greece is a southeastern European republic and EU member state, birthplace of democracy, philosophy, and the Olympic Games, celebrated for its 6,000 sun-drenched islands, ancient ruins from the Acropolis to Delphi, vibrant Mediterranean cuisine, and a warm culture that draws expats, retirees, digital nomads, and Golden Visa investors from across the world.
Bringing Pets to Greece
Requirements, costs and process for relocating with your pets.
Vaccinations
Restricted Breeds
Plus crosses thereof — under Presidential Decree 14/2007. Owners require civil liability insurance (min. €29,347), special municipal licence, muzzle and leash in public, and Central Dog Registry registration.
💰 Costs
EU pet passport (already held if your pet is from an EU country): no additional cost for entry. If coming from outside the EU: veterinary health certificate from accredited vet (~€50–100), titer test (rabies antibody test) if required from your country (~€100–150), translation and apostille of certificates (~€50–100). Annual rabies vaccination booster: ~€30–50 at a Greek vet. Microchip registration transfer to the Greek Pet Registry (Εθνικό Μητρώο Ζώων Συντροφιάς): approximately €15–20.
🐕 Dog Tax / Registration
Greece does not have a general "dog tax" per se. However, dogs must be registered annually with the local municipality (Δήμος), which may charge a small administrative fee (€0–20 depending on municipality). Dog owners must also comply with annual vaccination and registration requirements under Law 4039/2012 on animal welfare.
Register your pet with a local Greek vet within the first few weeks. Greek vets are generally excellent and reasonably priced compared to Western Europe. Transfer microchip registration to the Greek National Pet Registry (Εθνικό Μητρώο Ζώων Συντροφιάς — microchip.gr). Dog registration with your local municipality (Δήμος) is also required. Annual rabies booster vaccination required by Greek law.
📋 Relocation Process
FROM EU MEMBER STATES: Ensure your pet has a valid EU Pet Passport, is microchipped, and has a current rabies vaccination (not expired). Entry into Greece for EU pets is straightforward — the EU pet passport is accepted. No additional health certificate needed. FROM NON-EU COUNTRIES (including UK post-Brexit): Pets need an accredited veterinary health certificate (AHC) issued within 10 days of travel, microchipping, rabies vaccination (21-day waiting period for first-time vaccines), and if from a non-listed country, a rabies antibody titer test (RNAT) performed at an EU-approved laboratory with a result of at least 0.5 IU/ml, conducted at least 3 months before travel. ON ARRIVAL: Enter through an authorised entry point (Athens or Thessaloniki airports, major ferry ports). Have documents ready for inspection. Register your pet with the Greek Pet Registry (Εθνικό Μητρώο Ζώων Συντροφιάς) at a local vet.
Greece has a large stray animal population — particularly dogs and cats. Many are managed by municipalities under catch-neuter-return programmes. Be aware that stray dogs in some areas can be territorial, especially near villages and tourist sites. Greek animal welfare legislation (Law 4039/2012 and amendments) provides protections for companion animals. Animal abandonment is a criminal offence with significant fines. Several NGOs (Arktouros, ANIMA, Greek Animal Rescue, etc.) operate in Greece if you wish to adopt a local animal. Beaches: dogs are permitted on most Greek beaches (check local rules — some designated beaches prohibit dogs in peak season). Apartments: most rental contracts prohibit pets — always check before signing. Island travel with pets: notify the ferry company in advance; pets are often accommodated in kennels on deck or in the car deck.