If you are planning to move to Greece with your pet, it is important to know the rules and regulations regarding importing pets into the country. In this article, we will provide information on the restrictions, requirements, and procedures for bringing pets to Greece.
Greece’s Pet Importation Rules
Greece allows the import of pets, but there are restrictions on the types of pets that can be brought into the country.
Restrictions on types of pets
According to the Greek government, the import of certain types of pets is prohibited. These include all types of wild animals, such as snakes, lizards, and exotic birds. In addition, some dog breeds are considered dangerous and may be subject to additional regulations. If you are unsure about whether your pet is allowed in Greece, you can contact the Greek Ministry of Rural Development and Food for more information.
Vaccination Requirements
Before bringing your pet to Greece, it is mandatory that they have certain vaccinations to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
Required vaccinations
The following vaccinations are required for pets entering Greece:
- Dogs: Rabies, distemper, hepatitis, leptospirosis, and parvovirus.
- Cats: Rabies, feline enteritis, and feline respiratory disease.
It is important to ensure that your pet is up-to-date on all their vaccinations before traveling. You should obtain a vaccination certificate from your veterinarian, which should be presented to Greek authorities upon arrival.
Importation Application Procedure in Greece
If you are planning to bring your pet to Greece, you must follow a specific application process. The process can be complicated, so it is important to start early and to ensure that you have all the necessary paperwork and documentation.
Required paperwork and other requirements
The following documents and requirements are necessary for importing a pet to Greece:
A health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian in your home country, which confirms that your pet is healthy and free from any infectious diseases.
A certificate of vaccination against rabies, issued by a licensed veterinarian. The certificate should show that your pet has been vaccinated at least 21 days before arrival in Greece, but not more than one year prior.
An electronic identification microchip implanted under your pet’s skin. The microchip should comply with ISO 11784/11785 standards and must be implanted before the rabies vaccination.
An import permit from the Greek Ministry of Rural Development and Food. To obtain this permit, you will need to provide the following documents:
A copy of your pet’s health certificate and rabies vaccination certificate.
A copy of your passport or other identification document.
Payment of the required fees.
Application process
To start the application process, you should contact the Greek Ministry of Rural Development and Food. After submitting the required documents and paying the fees, it may take up to five business days to process the import permit. It is important to note that the permit is only valid for four months from the date of issue, so make sure to plan your travel accordingly.
Quarantine Requirements
There is no mandatory quarantine period for pets entering Greece. However, if your pet shows signs of illness upon arrival, they may be subject to quarantine or other measures to protect public health.
International Travel Scheme
Greece is part of the EU Pet Travel Scheme, which allows pets to travel between EU member states and some other countries with certain requirements, such as vaccination against rabies. If you are traveling to Greece from a non-EU country, you should check with the Greek Ministry of Rural Development and Food to ensure that your pet meets all the requirements for entry.
Licensing Requirements
There are no specific licensing requirements for pets in Greece. However, pet owners are responsible for ensuring that their pets are well-behaved and do not pose a risk to public safety.
Relevant Government Websites
If you are planning to bring your pet to Greece, the website of the Greek Ministry of Rural Development and Food is a useful resource for information on the requirements and procedures for importing pets. The website provides detailed information on the application process, required documents, and fees for importing pets to Greece. You can also find contact information for the Ministry if you have any questions or concerns.
Link to the Greek Ministry of Rural Development and Food website:
Ministry of Rural Development and Food
Bringing your pet to Greece requires careful planning and preparation, but with the right documentation and procedures, it is possible to make the journey safely and legally. It is important to follow the rules and regulations regarding the import of pets to avoid any delays or problems upon arrival. By obtaining the necessary paperwork, ensuring that your pet is up-to-date on all their vaccinations, and following the application process, you can make the transition to Greece with your furry friend as smooth as possible.