Today, on 22 April 2026, the revised EU framework for the non-commercial movement of pets enters into force, replacing Regulation (EU) No 576/2013 with new rules aligned with the Animal Health Law. At the core is Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2026/131, supported by a wider package of five other Regulations. While the overall system remains intact, the update reflects evolving risks, increased pet mobility and lessons learned in recent years.
Closing loopholes, strengthening traceability
A key change is the introduction of the concept of a “single non-commercial movement,” designed to prevent misuse of the system, such as multiple owners transporting large numbers of animals in the same vehicle under separate declarations. New documentation requirements also improve traceability, including mandatory written declarations for pets arriving from Third countries and clearer rules for “authorised persons” travelling on behalf of owners.
Reinforced biosecurity
Biosecurity measures are reinforced, in particular for rabies and Echinococcus multilocularis. Pet birds are now subject to stricter controls, including limits on numbers and additional safeguards such as testing, vaccination and pre-movement isolation to mitigate avian influenza risks. Updated technical standards for identification, including microchips, further strengthen the system.
Greater responsibilities for owners
The new framework places clearer responsibility on pet owners and keepers to ensure animals are healthy, asymptomatic and fit for travel. For veterinarians, this translates into a central role in certification, identification and preventive care, including reinforced rabies vaccination protocols and, where required, antibody titration. Practical updates, such as a revised EU pet passport and added provisions for exceptional situations (e.g. emergencies or humanitarian crises), aim to make the system more flexible while maintaining safeguards.
FVE perspective: progress with room for improvement
The FVE welcomes the improvements, particularly the clearer definitions of authorised persons, stronger traceability measures and strengthened disease prevention measures. Other valued improvements include clearer definitions, stricter technical microchip standards and specific provisions for military dogs, law enforcement dogs and search-and-rescue dogs. However, the FVE also highlights the need for further alignment with upcoming legislation, clearer definitions of target species and strengthened veterinary capacity at border control points.
(photo ©Andrew Pons/Unsplash)