These are the requirements for entering United Kingdom 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 11784/11785, before rabies vaccination
Yes – after microchip, min. 21 days before travel
>=15 weeks (full rabies vaccination; no young-animal exemption).
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 or GB pet health certificate
No permit (listed country)
No (Germany is a listed country)
No additional vaccinations required
No tapeworm requirement for cats
None if compliant; otherwise up to 4 months
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)
Approved route; max. 5 pets (non-commercial); Official source: gov.uk/bring-pet-to-great-britain
Authority: DEFRA / APHA (Pet Travel Scheme)
🗓️ 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.