Family Finances

Moving overseas is an exciting but sometimes overwhelming time. And if you want to bring your beloved pet overseas with you, things can get even more complicated. But it can be done, and there are several ways to save both time and money when you move abroad with your pet.

What to know before you go

Learn as much as you can about the requirements for pets in your new overseas location as soon as you can.

• Make sure your breed of pet is allowed both in your new home country and in your new living situation. Some dog breeds may be restricted—Pit Bull Terriers are not allowed in many European countries, for example, or in military base housing, and New Zealand doesn’t allow birds, reptiles, or rodents.
  
  
• If you’re in the military, know that you are limited to a total of two total dogs or cats. Plus, exotic pets such as reptiles, rodents, or ferrets are not allowed in military housing.
  
  
• Learn about the documentation, vaccination, and quarantine requirements for your pet in the new country. Health regulations vary widely, and if your pet travels overseas by air, your carrier may also have their own documentation and other requirements.
  
  
• Do some research about having your pet microchipped. All countries in the European Union (EU) require microchips that meet International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standards, as do many other countries. If your pet already has a microchip, ask your vet if it complies with international requirements.
  
  
• Military housing has rules governing pets, but if your new home is an off-base apartment or a home governed by a homeowners association, there still may be restrictions.
  
  
• Determine how you plan to transport your pet. Talk with your airline to learn how they handle layovers and flight delays. Private transport companies may provide options if your pet cannot accompany you on your own flight.
  
  
• Your new country may have age restrictions (i.e., kittens or puppies must be at least a certain age), or rules governing the relocation of a pregnant pet.

If your pet is an emotional support or service animal, know that the rules for these important animals may be different in your new country. For example, an animal that qualifies as an emotional support animal in the U.S. may still not be allowed on a military base if it is classified as an exotic breed.

Expenses can add up

The cost of pet ownership can add up, and the cost of moving a pet overseas can be even more expensive, so it’s helpful to develop a budget. Here are some of the costs to consider when moving abroad with your pet:

• Costs for shipping Fido or Fluffy via airline cargo can vary widely and may depend on whether you’re accompanying them on the plane or if you’re shipping them separately. Military service members may be able to ship their pet on Space A military flights to OCONUS locations at no charge if space is available. Some U.S. air carriers cease pet transport during extremely hot or cold weather, so make back-up plans if possible. And finally, some airlines refuse to fly snub-nosed or flat-faced dogs or cats such as Pugs, French Bulldogs, or Persian cats because they can develop breathing problems on board.
  
  
• Travel kennel quality is important. Have a U.S.-approved International Air Transport Association (IATA) kennel with enough room for your pet to stand up and turn around comfortably. If your pet is small, they may be able to fly with you in the airplane cabin for a fee. For both options, give your pet plenty of time to get used to the new crate well in advance of the trip.
  
  
• Quarantine requirements vary widely, depending on your destination, and can range from hours to almost two weeks, depending on your destination. You’ll need to cover boarding and kennel fees during this time.
  
  
• If you plan to stay in a hotel or vacation rental before settling into your new home, be sure to book a pet-friendly option and plan for additional pet fees.
  
  
• The cost of veterinarian care, both before the move and after you arrive, can add up. Ask about vaccine and testing requirements, and make sure all are up-to-date to reduce unnecessary quarantines. If your pet is not microchipped, add the cost of this as well. If you have pet insurance, check to see if any of these costs will be covered.
  
  
• Additional fees, such as import permits, customs fees, and more may apply. 
  
  
• You’ll want to get set up with a veterinarian soon after you arrive in your new country, so that if something happens to your pet once you’re in the new country, you have a place to go other than an expensive emergency clinic.

Timing

Things can get tricky here. When you’re taking your pet overseas, their health certificate must be dated within ten days of your flight. This means that any delays in getting your passport or visa, or any delays getting your orders may mean that you must redo the health certificate process. Talk with your veterinarian to put together a backup plan. Also, get copies of all your pet’s medical records, including immunizations. Some countries may require that those records accompany your pet during transport.

Good news for military moves

Did you know that if you are in the military moving overseas on PCS orders, you can now be reimbursed for some of the costs of moving your pet? As of January 1, 2024, you can be repaid for the cost of moving one dog or cat per service member. For OCONUS moves, the maximum reimbursement is $2,000 for each move.

This money can help you cover the cost of

• Microchipping
• Hotel, boarding and quarantine fees
• Licensing fees
• Costs to ship your pet
• Testing vaccine titer levels for entry

As with all reimbursement requirements, be sure to keep all receipts. And check with your command to learn about any other requirements. And finally, know that pets and kennels weighing more than 150 pounds cannot be shipped via military transport.

Plan ahead

Moving abroad with pets can be done but start your preparations as early as you can. Moving can be a stressful time—for you and your pet, so a little planning and budgeting will go a long way. While some people choose to hire a pet relocation service, it is possible to navigate this process on your own. Start with a little research, talk with your vet, and begin budgeting for the expenses as soon as you can.