These are the requirements for entering Ireland with a cat, based on a departure from Germany/the EU. Requirements can change — always confirm with the relevant authority before you travel.
Yes, ISO, before vaccination
Yes – primary vaccination ≥21 days prior
No young-animal entry without full rabies vaccination - pet must be >=15 weeks (vaccination from 12 wks + 21-day wait).
Why 15 weeks? The rabies vaccination can only be given from 12 weeks of age, and it becomes valid 21 days later — so ~15 weeks is the earliest an animal can travel. This is the harmonised EU rule (Reg. 2016/429) and applies to travel within the EU too.
EU pet passport
None (EU member)
No
Keine
No tapeworm requirement for cats
Keine
Standard
These apply on the ground in the destination country — to everyone, not as an entry condition — and depend on the breed and situation (e.g. public transport, listed breeds).
No breed restrictions for cats
None (cat)
Max. 5 pets (non-commercial)
Authority: EU-Recht (VO 2016/429 + Delegierte VO 2026/131)
🗓️ Read at the responsible authority on 20/07/2026.
Check your specific route & airlines →For informational purposes only. Regulations change frequently — verify with the relevant authorities before travel.