Pet owners across the EU are facing steep costs to update their animals’ travel documents after a rule change that now requires annual rabies antibody tests for pets entering the bloc from certain countries.
How the new testing requirement works
The EU pet passport, issued by a vet and valid for the life of the animal, remains valid for EU residents but no longer suffices for pets coming from listed third countries without proof of effective rabies vaccination. Owners must now obtain a titer test showing sufficient rabies antibodies, which must be repeated annually for continued eligibility.
Why costs are rising for pet owners
The titer test typically costs between €50 and €150 per animal, depending on the member state and veterinary clinic, and must be repeated every year. For multi-pet households or frequent travelers, these recurring expenses add significantly to the cost of owning and moving animals across borders.
What pets are affected by the rule change
The change applies to dogs, cats, and ferrets entering the EU from countries with a controlled rabies risk status, as defined by EU regulations. Pets moving within the EU or from rabies-free countries are not subject to the annual test requirement.
How long the EU pet passport remains valid
The EU pet passport itself continues to be valid for the life of the animal and contains the microchip details, health records such as rabies vaccinations, and owner and veterinarian contact information. Only the requirement for periodic titer testing has changed for certain entrants.