What documents do I need to travel within the EU with my rabbit?

Rabbits traveling within the EU require a microchip (ISO 11784/11785), a health certificate issued by an official vet, and in some countries proof of rabies-free status — a formal EU pet passport as issued for dogs and cats does not currently apply to rabbits.

Rabbits are classified as "other animals" under EU pet movement rules, not "pet animals" in the legal sense applied to dogs, cats, and ferrets. This means different — and in some ways more complex — documentation is required.

Microchip requirements
An ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip is required for identification in most EU member states. The chip must be implanted by a vet and registered in a national database before travel.

Health certificate
An official health certificate (not a standard vet clinic letter) must be issued by an official or authorized vet — in Italy, this is typically an ASL (Azienda Sanitaria Locale) veterinarian or a vet with official authorization. It must confirm the rabbit is healthy, microchipped, and free from signs of infectious disease.

Validity period
Health certificates for intra-EU rabbit travel are typically valid for 10 days from issue. Plan your vet appointment accordingly.

Country-by-country variation
While the EU provides a framework, individual member states may impose additional requirements. Germany, France, and the Netherlands have historically had stricter health declaration requirements for lagomorphs. Always check the destination country's official veterinary authority website before travel.

Switzerland, Norway, and UK (post-Brexit)
These non-EU countries treat rabbits as third-country imports. The UK now requires a specific GB import health certificate and advance notification. Allow 4–6 weeks for permit processing for UK entry.

Transport carrier requirements
The carrier must be escape-proof, well-ventilated, and large enough for the rabbit to stand, turn, and lie down. Provide hay and water for journeys over 2 hours.

Store your rabbit's microchip number, vet certificates, and vaccination records in Flovvi's Digital Passport. At border control or a foreign vet clinic, everything is available offline on your phone in seconds.