Bringing Your Dog From the EU to the US

New CDC rules: microchip, 6 months old, and the import form.

DogsEU → USCDC import form

The CDC updated its dog-import rules in 2024 and again in 2025, so bringing a dog into the United States now has firm requirements even from low-risk regions like the EU. Because most EU countries are dog-rabies-free or low-risk, a dog that has only been in those countries in the last 6 months doesn't need a US rabies vaccination — but it must be microchipped, at least 6 months old, appear healthy, and travel with a CDC Dog Import Form receipt.

The checklist, step by step

ISO microchip

🗓 Before you submit the CDC form

The dog must have an ISO-compatible microchip; the number goes on the CDC Dog Import Form.

Minimum age 6 months

🗓 At the time of entry

All dogs entering the US must be at least 6 months old.

CDC Dog Import Form

🗓 Submit 2–10 days before arrival

Complete the CDC Dog Import Form online and carry the receipt. The dog must also look healthy on arrival.

Check the departure country's status

🗓 Before you travel

Extra steps apply only if the dog has been in a high-risk (for rabies) country in the past 6 months. For dogs only in the EU, the microchip + age + form are the core requirements.

Good to know

Rules are stricter for dogs that have been in a dog-rabies high-risk country in the previous 6 months (rabies vaccination, and possibly a titer and reservation at a CDC-registered facility). Confirm your dog's route history against the current CDC guidance.

Frequently asked questions

Does my dog need a rabies vaccination to enter the US from the EU?Generally no, if the dog has only been in dog-rabies-free or low-risk countries (most of the EU) in the past 6 months. It must still be microchipped, at least 6 months old, healthy, and have a CDC Dog Import Form receipt.

How old must my dog be to enter the US?At least 6 months old — this is a firm requirement under the current CDC rules for all dogs.

Official sources

CDC — Bringing a dog into the United States

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This guide is for general information and is kept in step with official sources, but requirements change and can vary by case. Always confirm the current rules with the official authority for your route before you travel.

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