Making the move to a foreign country can be daunting enough, and made even more so if you have four-legged family members to consider. It is good to know that pet relocation to Portugal is a relatively easy process.

If you are considering pet relocation into Portugal, the same EU rules apply. This requires vaccination against rabies to be documented in the pet passport or the animal health certificate. This is the sole requirement for dogs and cats. You can find more information on the official European Commission website for Movement of Pets.

The EU rules also include ferrets. However, Portugal has banned the importation of domestic ferrets in order to avoid cross-breeding with indigenous wild ferrets.

Whilst this contradicts the EU rules, it is recommended that you check the latest information with the Portuguese authorities or the DVAG website.

Keeping your pet in Portugal

All pets in Portugal must be registered with the local council and it is mandatory to follow the vaccination program. To register you will need:

• An up to date animal health card.
• The identifying microchip.
• For breeds considered dangerous, you must provide your criminal history.
• Civil liability insurance.
• Certificate proving your physical and mental health.
• Proof that the animal has been spayed or neutered.

The registration licence must be renewed annually at an approximate cost of €20.

Animals in all common or public places must be on a lead and wear an identification collar to include the owner’s telephone number or address.

For breeds considered dangerous, the animal must wear a muzzle.

Source: expatsportugal.com