Effective from 4 June 2025, a new Northern Ireland Pet Travel Scheme simplifies the process for residents of Great Britain (England, Scotland, and Wales) traveling to Northern Ireland with their pet dogs, cats, ferrets, or assistance dogs.
Key Points:
- Pet Travel Document (PTD): Great Britain residents must obtain a free, lifelong PTD for each pet. Applications open in April 2025 through the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA).
- Microchipping: All pets must be microchipped before travel. The microchip number must match the one on the PTD.
- Health Requirements: Rabies vaccinations and tapeworm treatments are not required for travel under this scheme.
- Travel Declarations: Travelers must declare they will not proceed to Ireland or other EU countries using this scheme. For such travel, existing EU pet travel requirements apply.
- Northern Ireland Residents: No documentation is needed for travel to and from Great Britain, but pets must be microchipped.
- Commercial and Multiple Pet Travel: The scheme does not apply to commercial movements or when traveling with more than five pets, except for events like competitions or exhibitions, where proof of registration is required.
For detailed guidance and to apply for a PTD, visit the official GOV.UK page.
