Liechtenstein (LI)
Liechtenstein is a tiny constitutional principality nestled between Switzerland and Austria — one of only two doubly landlocked countries in the world — yet it punches far above its 39,000-person weight as one of the wealthiest nations on earth per capita.
Bringing Pets to Liechtenstein
Requirements, costs and process for relocating with your pets.
Vaccinations
Restricted Breeds
💰 Costs
Microchip implantation: CHF 50–80. Rabies vaccination: CHF 60–100. EU Pet Passport issuance: CHF 50–80. Veterinary health certificate for international travel: CHF 80–150. Dog tax (Hundesteuer): varies by municipality — typically CHF 80–200/year. Annual vet check and vaccinations: CHF 150–300.
🐕 Dog Tax / Registration
An annual dog tax (Hundesteuer) is levied by most Liechtenstein municipalities — typically CHF 80–200/year per dog. Register your dog at your Gemeinde within 30 days of arrival. Some municipalities have different rates for neutered vs unneutered dogs.
Register with a local veterinarian promptly after arrival. Liechtenstein has a small number of veterinary practices given its size — the main practices are in Schaan and Vaduz. Cross-border veterinary services in nearby Feldkirch (Austria) and Buchs SG (Switzerland) are also easily accessible and may offer more specialist services. The nearest animal hospital (Tierklinik) for emergencies is in St Gallen or Feldkirch.
📋 Relocation Process
1. Microchip your pet (ISO standard 15-digit chip) before vaccinations. 2. Administer all required vaccinations — rabies must be given after microchipping to be valid. 3. Obtain an EU Pet Passport (from a registered vet in your home country) or equivalent documentation. 4. For pets from non-EU countries: obtain an official health certificate from a state-authorised vet and official endorsement from the relevant authority. 5. Pets entering Liechtenstein from EU/EEA countries: standard EU Pet Passport is sufficient — present at the Liechtenstein border or to the Amt für Lebensmittelkontrolle (ALV) on request. 6. Register your pet (dogs) at your Gemeinde (municipality) and pay the annual Hundesteuer. 7. Register with a local veterinarian for ongoing care.
Liechtenstein is pet-friendly overall. Dogs are welcome in many outdoor areas, hiking trails, and some restaurants/hotels. The Rhine valley and alpine trails are excellent for dog exercise. Clean-up rules are strictly enforced — always carry bags and dispose of waste properly. Many apartment rental contracts restrict or prohibit pets — confirm pet permission before signing any lease, as housing is already scarce without the added complication of a pet. Swiss veterinary standards apply throughout Liechtenstein — excellent quality care at Swiss-level prices.