posted 7th September 2026
Your dog may be delighted with new walking routes. Your cat will probably want to know who approved the move. Either way, bringing your pet to Cyprus takes a little more preparation than packing their favourite toy.
The good news? Starting early makes everything easier.
For dogs, cats and ferrets moving to the Republic of Cyprus, your first appointment should be with your vet. Your pet needs a microchip fitted before, or at the same time as, its rabies vaccination. After a first vaccination, allow at least 21 full days before travelling, and your vet should confirm the exact date. These pets must be at least 15 weeks old to enter Cyprus. Keep boosters current, as a gap in cover can restart the waiting period.
The paperwork depends on where you live and where your pet is travelling from. If you live in Great Britain, you need an Animal Health Certificate issued by an official vet, with entry into the EU within its 10-day validity window. An EU-issued pet passport does not replace this for GB residents.
For moves from another EU country, a valid EU pet passport is normally used.
Pets coming from certain other non-EU countries also need a rabies blood test. The sample is normally taken at least 30 days after vaccination, followed by a three month wait before travel, provided the result is satisfactory. This makes checking your departure country and route early particularly worthwhile.
For arrivals from outside the EU, the relevant Cyprus District Veterinary Office requires at least 48 hours’ notice. Use an authorised entry point and check breed restrictions, including those affecting certain dogs and hybrid cats. Other species have separate requirements. Pets meeting the entry conditions do not routinely need quarantine.
Travelling on different dates? To use the usual non-commercial pet travel rules, your journey must be within five days of your pet’s, with written authorisation for the person accompanying them. A larger gap needs different arrangements, so flag this before booking.
Comfort matters too. Confirm that the airline accepts your pet on your chosen route before committing to flights. Their crate must meet the airline’s requirements and provide enough room to stand, turn around and lie naturally. Introduce it at home beforehand, so departure day is not their first encounter with it. Discuss fitness to travel, summer temperatures and any restrictions on flat faced breeds with your vet and carrier.
This is where a reputable pet relocation company can make a real difference. Coordinating vet appointments, documents, transport and arrival checks takes experience. Look for relevant route knowledge, recent customer feedback, appropriate licences and insurance, and someone who asks about your pet’s health and individual needs.
Request a written quote covering what is included and what costs extra, such as crates, veterinary fees, arrival handling or boarding. Ask who looks after your pet at each stage, how updates are provided and what happens if a flight changes. Clear answers help you make a confident choice.
Once you arrive, allow time to settle. Familiar bedding and feeding routines can help, and check that your accommodation welcomes pets. In hot weather, choose cooler times for walks, avoid hot pavements and provide plenty of water and shade.
Register with a local vet and ask about suitable parasite protection. Your pet may embrace island life, but lunchtime pavement temperatures deserve considerably less enthusiasm.
At EXAPS, we help individuals and families moving abroad find professionals who have signed and committed to our Code of Conduct. That means commitments to clear communication, transparent fees, fair treatment and professional integrity. Choosing support you feel comfortable with matters throughout a move, especially when a much-loved family member is involved.
We are proud to have CCS Shipping as a member of the Alliance. CCS Shipping offers pet relocation to and from Cyprus, including support with travel documentation, crates, collection and delivery, and boarding where needed. Discuss your pet’s breed, health, departure country and preferred dates with the team, and ask for a tailored quote explaining the arrangements for their journey.
Because a new life in Cyprus should include the one who steals your spot on the sofa.
