Published 2026-09-15 · Last updated 2026-09-15
Bringing Your Pets to Spain from the U.S.: A Practical Timeline
Microchip, rabies vaccine, USDA endorsement, airline rules: the order matters. Here's the working timeline for dogs and cats.
Bringing a dog or cat into Spain from the United States is straightforward if you start the calendar early and do the steps in the right order.
About 3 months out: ISO microchip
Your pet needs an ISO-compliant 15-digit microchip, implanted before the rabies vaccination. If the chip comes after the vaccine, the vaccine has to be given again.
At least 21 days before travel: rabies vaccine
Given after the microchip, and at least 21 days before entry into the EU. Depending on the vaccine, it's valid for one or three years.
Within 10 days of travel: EU health certificate + USDA endorsement
A USDA-accredited vet completes the EU health certificate, which must then be endorsed by USDA APHIS within 10 days of your travel date. This is the step that catches most people out, so book the vet appointment with the endorsement timeline in mind.
Travel day
Airline rules vary: small pets often fly in the cabin, larger dogs in the hold or as cargo. Check the specific airline's pet policy and book the pet's place at the same time as your own ticket, as spaces are limited.
On arrival in Spain
Declare your pet at customs. There is no quarantine for compliant pets. Register with a local vet in your first weeks, and in some regions, register your dog with the town hall too.
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