Travelling to Spain With Your Pet: Sun, Beaches, and the Documents You Need

What Documents Does My Pet Need for Spain?

For EU pet owners, a valid EU Pet Passport is the primary document required. For UK pet owners since Brexit, an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) must be obtained from an approved vet no more than 10 days before travel. All pets must be microchipped with an ISO-compliant chip. Rabies vaccination must be current.

Travelling From the UK to Spain After Brexit

Brexit changed the rules significantly for UK pet owners. The EU Pet Passport is no longer valid for UK-issued travel. Each trip to Spain now requires a new Animal Health Certificate, issued by an approved vet and government-endorsed by APHA. The good news is that Spain does not require a rabies titre test for pets from the UK, making the process more straightforward than some destinations.

Spain's Pet-Friendly Culture

Spain has a genuinely welcoming culture for pets. Dogs are permitted in many outdoor restaurant terraces, in parks, on some beaches (with seasonal restrictions), and in a growing number of hotels and apartments. The Spanish tend to be very warm towards animals, and well-behaved dogs are generally welcomed.

The Canary Islands and Balearic Islands

The Canary Islands and Balearic Islands are popular pet-travel destinations. They are part of Spain and the EU, so the same documentary requirements apply as for mainland Spain. However, individual islands may have their own beach access rules for dogs, so it is worth checking local regulations for your specific destination.

Driving to Spain via France

Many UK pet owners drive to Spain via the Channel Tunnel or ferry to France, then south through France into Spain. This requires compliance with both French and Spanish entry requirements (which are identical for EU travel), as well as the Eurotunnel or ferry company's own pet policies.

Get Spain-Ready With Pet Holiday Club

Entering your home country and Spain into Pet Holiday Club's platform generates a complete, vet-verified checklist of exactly what your pet needs. Our timeline tool tells you when to book your vet appointment, when to apply for government endorsement, and when everything must be completed by.

Conclusion

Spain is one of the most accessible and enjoyable destinations for pet owners. With the right documents and a little planning, your dog or cat can enjoy the Spanish sunshine alongside you.