Moving Pets to France
For over a decade, Pawpaws Express has been a trusted name in pet transportation, specializing in safely and efficiently shipping pets into France. Our years of experience has equipped us with the expertise and knowledge necessary to navigate the complexities of international pet travel regulations. We pride ourselves on our commitment to providing personalized care for each pet, ensuring their comfort and safety throughout the journey. Our team of professionals is well-versed in the specific requirements for entry into France, and we understand the importance of a smooth travel experience for both pets and their owners. Our dedication to excellence has made us a preferred choice for pet transportation to France. Choose Pawpaws Express for your pet’s travel needs, and benefit from a decade of experience in making pet journeys stress-free and seamless.
Pet Entry Requirements for France
Pets must be microchipped with ISO 11784/11785 standards, prior to a rabies vaccination which must be administered at least 21 days prior to travel. You must have an EU passport or Helth certiciate and verified tapeworm treatment.

Pet Import Temperature Restrictions for France
France doesn’t have any set pet travel tempurature restrictions. They do however make judgement calls during extreme tempurature months. Many airlines also have their own temp guidelines, so it’s better to plan for spring / Fall travel if at all possible

Pet Health Certifictate Services
We offer comprehensive health certificate support services to assist you in meeting the necessary requirements for pet travel into France. We collaborate with USDA-certified veterinarians to conduct thorough health examinations and vaccinations, ensuring that all paperwork is accurately completed and submitted on time.

How can PawPaws Express assist in shipping my pet to France?
PawPaws Express provides a comprehensive list of services that encompass travel itineraries, booking, ticketing, travel to and from the airport, health certificate assistance, customs clearance, and ensuring your pet’s safety and comfort throughout the journey.

What documents are required for shipping my pet into France?
The pet entry requirements for France are designed to ensure the health and safety of both the traveling pets and the local animal population. Here’s a summary of the key requirements for bringing pets (dogs, cats, and ferrets) into Italy:
Microchipping: Pets must be microchipped for identification purposes. The microchip should comply with ISO 11784/11785 standards, and it’s important that the microchipping is done before the rabies vaccination.
Rabies Vaccination: Pets must be vaccinated against rabies. The initial vaccination must be administered at least 21 days before entry into Italy. The vaccine must be recorded in the pet’s passport or health certificate.
EU Pet Passport (for EU countries) or Health Certificate:
- For pets coming from EU countries or countries with similar health standards, an EU Pet Passport is required. The passport should document the pet’s microchip number, rabies vaccination, and owner’s details.
- For pets coming from non-EU countries, an official health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian is required. The certificate should confirm that the pet is fit for travel and free from infectious diseases.
Tapeworm Treatment (for dogs only): While not a mandatory requirement for entry into Italy, it’s recommended that dogs are treated for tapeworms before traveling.
Notification of Arrival: It’s advisable to notify the local Veterinary Office (ASL – Azienda Sanitaria Locale) of your pet’s arrival, especially if you plan to stay in Italy for an extended period.
Travel with an Approved Carrier: When traveling by air, ensure that your pet is transported with an approved airline that follows the International Air Transport Association (IATA) regulations for pet travel.
No Signs of Illness: Pets should not show any signs of diseases that can be transmitted to humans upon entry.
It’s important to note that these requirements can change, so it’s always a good idea to check with the Italian Embassy or Consulate, or consult with a professional pet relocation service, well in advance of your travel date to ensure you have the most up-to-date information.
How long is the quarantine period for pets entering France?
No, there is no mandatory quarantine period for pets entering France, provided they meet all the necessary health and documentation requirements, such as having a valid rabies vaccination and being microchipped. However, if a pet does not meet these requirements, they may be subject to quarantine until they are compliant. It’s important to ensure that all pet travel regulations are followed to avoid any complications upon arrival in Italy.
Are there breed restrictions for dogs traveling into France?
Yes, France has breed-specific legislation that restricts the ownership and importation of certain dog breeds that are considered potentially dangerous. As of our last update, the restricted breeds in Italy include:
- Pit Bull Terrier
- American Staffordshire Terrier
- Staffordshire Bull Terrier
- Rottweiler
- Dogo Argentino
- Fila Brasileiro
- Tosa Inu
- Neapolitan Mastiff (Mastino Napoletano)
It’s important to note that regulations can vary by region within France, and some areas may have additional restrictions or requirements for owning these breeds, such as mandatory registration, liability insurance, and the use of a leash and muzzle in public spaces.
Can I bring my pet bird into France?
Yes, you can bring a pet bird into France, but there are specific regulations and requirements that you need to follow:
Health Certificate: You will need an official health certificate issued by a veterinarian in your home country. The certificate should state that the bird is free from signs of infectious or contagious diseases.
CITES Permit: If your bird is a species protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), you will need a CITES permit for both export from your home country and import into France.
Quarantine: Depending on the species and country of origin, your bird may be subject to a quarantine period upon arrival in France. The duration and conditions of the quarantine will be determined by the Frnch health authorities.
Notification of Arrival: You should notify the Border Inspection Post (BIP) at the point of entry into France about the arrival of your bird. This is important for ensuring that all necessary health checks and procedures are carried out.
Microchipping or Ringing: Some bird species may be required to have a microchip or a closed ring for identification purposes.
What should I do if my pet has special medical needs during the journey?
Be sure to inform us about your pet’s medical needs well in advance. We can coordinate with veterinarians to ensure your pet receives the necessary care and medication during the trip. Always send over a copy of your pet’s medical records and any prescriptions.
Can my pet fly in cabin to France?
Yes, pets can fly in the cabin to Italy on many airlines, but there are specific rules and restrictions that vary depending on the airline and the size and breed of the pet. Here are some general guidelines:
Size and Weight Limits: Most airlines have size and weight limits for pets in the cabin. Typically, the pet and its carrier must fit comfortably under the seat in front of you, and the combined weight is usually limited to around 8-10 kg (17-22 lbs).
Pet Carrier: Pets must travel in an approved carrier that is well-ventilated, secure, and large enough for the pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. The carrier should also be leak-proof and able to be stowed under the seat.
Advance Booking: You should inform the airline and make arrangements for your pet at the time of booking your flight, as there are usually a limited number of pets allowed in the cabin per flight.
Health and Vaccination Requirements: Ensure your pet meets all health and vaccination requirements for entry into Italy, including a microchip and a valid rabies vaccination.
Breed Restrictions: Some airlines have restrictions on certain breeds, especially brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds, due to health and safety concerns. Check with the airline for any specific breed restrictions.
Behavior: Pets should be well-behaved and not pose a disturbance to other passengers. Some airlines may require that your pet remains in its carrier for the duration of the flight.
How long does it take to prepare my pet for travel into France?
Preparation can take several months. For example, your pet needs to be microchipped and vaccinated against rabies at least 21 days before travel. Additional treatments or tests may be required depending on your pet’s species and the country you’re traveling from.
Commercial flight options into France
Pets can arrive in France through various methods of air travel, depending on the airline’s policies and the size and species of the pet. Here are the common ways pets can travel:
In the Cabin: Many airlines allow small pets to travel in the cabin with their owners, provided they are kept in an approved carrier that fits under the seat. There are usually size and weight restrictions, and pets must remain in their carriers for the duration of the flight.
As Checked Baggage: Larger pets that exceed the size and weight limits for cabin travel can be transported as checked baggage. They are placed in pressurized and temperature-controlled compartments in the cargo hold. Pets must travel in an IATA-compliant pet crate that provides enough space for them to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
In the Cargo Hold as Cargo: Pets can also be shipped as cargo, which is a common option for very large animals, certain breeds, or when traveling on airlines that do not permit pets in the cabin or as checked baggage. This option also uses the cargo hold, but the booking and handling processes are different from those for checked baggage.
Cargo
Both accompanied and Unaccompanied cargo are accepted into U.K. airports
Checked Baggage
Most sizes of airline approved crates are approved to fly as checked baggage
In Cabin On Seat
No on seat kennel flights into Italy
In Cabin Under Seat
Small under seat carriers are approved into Italy if they meet airline guidelines.
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