What steps do I need to take to bring my pet to Hungary?

Published: June 08 2023

When planning to bring your beloved pet to Hungary, it is essential to be prepared and well-informed about the necessary procedures and regulations. In this guide, we will provide you with a step-by-step process to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience when bringing your pet to Hungary.

First and foremost, your pet must be microchipped. Hungary requires pets to be implanted with an ISO 11784/11785 compliant 15-digit pet microchip. If your pet's microchip is not ISO compliant, you can bring your own microchip scanner. Make sure to do this before any vaccinations, as the microchip number must be recorded in all documentation.

All pets entering Hungary must have a valid rabies vaccination. The primary vaccination must be administered at least 21 days before entering the country and must not expire before entry. Keep in mind that pets younger than 15 weeks old are not allowed into Hungary, as they cannot be vaccinated for rabies before 12 weeks of age.

In addition to the vaccination, a Rabies Vaccination Certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian must accompany your pet. The certificate should include the following information:

Pets traveling to Hungary from another EU country must possess an EU Pet Passport, which can be obtained from your local veterinarian. The passport must contain the pet's microchip number, rabies vaccination details, and any additional treatments or vaccinations required for your destination country.

For pets traveling from non-EU countries, a Third Country Veterinary Certificate (ANNEX II) must be issued and endorsed by the veterinary authorities within ten days of travel. It should contain the same information as an EU Pet Passport.

Dogs traveling directly to Hungary from countries with a high risk of the Echinococcus multilocularis tapeworm must receive a treatment against this parasite. The treatment must be administered by a licensed veterinarian between 24 hours and 120 hours (1 to 5 days) before entering Hungary. The administering veterinarian should record the treatment details in the EU Pet Passport or Third Country Veterinary Certificate.

It is necessary to notify the Border Inspection Post (BIP) in Hungary at least 24 hours before your arrival, providing them with your pet's travel details. This will help ensure a smooth and quick entry process when you reach Hungary.

If you are traveling from a non-EU country, the completed Third Country Veterinary Certificate (ANNEX II) must be endorsed by your country's controlling authority in charge of animal health. In the United States, for example, this would be the USDA. Ensure that you obtain the endorsement within the designated time frame before your departure.

While Hungary does not have a mandatory quarantine for pets entering the country, pets traveling from a country classified as 'high-risk' for rabies may be required to undergo a rabies titer test. A minimum of three months should be allowed before departure for this test to be completed. It is advisable to consult with the Hungarian consulate or embassy in your country for specific details on their quarantine regulations.

By following these steps, you can ensure the process of bringing your pet to Hungary goes as smoothly as possible. Always remember to consult with your veterinarian and check for any updates on the regulations before departure to avoid any potential complications. Happy travels with your furry companion!