Ireland (IE)
Ireland is a parliamentary republic and island nation on the western edge of Europe — the only English-speaking country in the Eurozone — celebrated for its warmly welcoming culture and legendary pub life, dramatic Wild Atlantic Way coastline and emerald green rolling countryside, a remarkable literary tradition from Joyce to Beckett, and its role as the European headquarters for the world's leading technology companies including Google, Apple, Meta, Microsoft, and LinkedIn.
Bringing Pets to Ireland
Requirements, costs and process for relocating with your pets.
Vaccinations
Restricted Breeds
💰 Costs
Veterinary health certificate: €100–€250. Rabies titre test (if required from unlisted country): €80–€200 + 30-day wait. Tapeworm treatment: €20–€50. Airline pet fee (in-cabin or hold): €50–€200+ depending on airline and route. Import permit from DAFM: from €30. Total: €300–€800+ depending on origin country and airline.
📋 Relocation Process
Ireland has very STRICT pet import rules due to its rabies-free island status. The process depends on whether your pet is coming from: (1) EU/EEA listed country: EU Pet Passport, microchip, valid rabies vaccination (min 21 days before travel), tapeworm treatment (dogs) 24–120 hours before arrival. Entry through approved routes only. (2) Non-EU listed country (UK, USA, Australia, etc.): Pet passport or official health certificate from a government vet, microchip, valid rabies vaccination, antibody titre test showing adequate protection (results must be at least 30 days old), tapeworm treatment (dogs). (3) Unlisted countries: Additional requirements including quarantine-like waiting periods. ALWAYS check DAFM (Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine) current requirements before planning travel — rules change. Entry must be through an approved port of entry — NOT all airports/ferry ports are approved.
Ireland is one of the most difficult countries in the world to bring pets into — this reflects its status as a rabies-free island. Do not attempt to bring a pet without complete documentation — animals without proper paperwork are refused entry and must return to the point of origin at the owner's expense. Plan at least 3–6 months in advance for non-EU pets. Cats require microchip and rabies vaccination but not the tapeworm treatment. Approved travel routes for pets are listed on gov.ie/dafm. Most pet-friendly airlines require booking well in advance for in-cabin travel. Pets from the UK (post-Brexit) must follow the non-EU listed country rules including titre testing.