Key takeaway
Everything you need to do to bring your dog to Ireland legally — microchipping, rabies vaccination, titre tests, and the rules for different countries.
Why Ireland has strict pet import rules
Ireland is an island nation and has historically been free of rabies. The strict import rules for pets are designed to keep it that way. Getting the process right is essential — if your dog doesn't have the correct documentation on arrival, they may be refused entry or held in quarantine at your expense, which can cost thousands of euros.
Dogs from EU/EEA countries
If your dog is coming from an EU or EEA country, the requirements are:
- ISO microchip (15-digit, ISO 11784/11785 standard) — must be implanted before or at the same time as the rabies vaccination
- Valid rabies vaccination — given after microchipping, with a booster within the valid period
- EU Pet Passport — issued by a vet in your home country, showing all the above details
No quarantine or titre test required from EU/EEA countries. Travel on an approved route (commercial airline or ferry) to Ireland.
Dogs from "listed" non-EU countries (USA, Australia, Canada, etc.)
Ireland recognises certain non-EU countries as having equivalent rabies disease status. For dogs from these countries, the requirements are:
- ISO microchip
- Rabies vaccination given after microchipping
- Rabies antibody titre test — a blood test showing your dog has a sufficient immune response (≥0.5 IU/ml). Must be done at an EU-approved laboratory
- 3-month waiting period after the titre test passes before travel is permitted
- Health certificate from an official vet in your country
Planning ahead is crucial — the 3-month wait means you need to start this process well before your planned move date.
Dogs from "unlisted" countries
Dogs from countries not on Ireland's approved list face the strictest requirements, including potential quarantine. Contact the Department of Agriculture in advance for specific guidance.
On arrival in Ireland
You must travel on an approved route and declare your dog on arrival. Pets cannot arrive as unaccompanied baggage on most routes. Check your airline or ferry company's specific requirements well in advance.
General guidance only. Always verify with official sources — gov.ie, citizensinformation.ie, hse.ie.