Taking your dog or cat to France from the UK: dated AHC timeline
France is the most-travelled UK to EU pet route — Dover-Calais, Eurotunnel and direct flights all use the same AHC and rabies rules. Enter your travel date below and get the exact dates to book, working backward from your trip.
Entry requirements for pets travelling to France
- Your pet needs an ISO-compliant microchip, implanted before their rabies vaccination.
- Rabies vaccination must be at least 21 clear days old before travel (first travel-eligible day is day 22 after the injection).
- The AHC must be issued by an Official Vet (OV) no more than 10 days before you travel.
- No inbound tapeworm treatment is required to enter France. France does not ask for tapeworm treatment on arrival — this rule only applies to Finland, Ireland, Malta and Norway.
- Dogs do need a vet-administered tapeworm treatment 24-120 hours before you cross back into the UK — this applies on every return route, including from France.
AHC timeline calculator — France
Destination is preselected to France. Dogs, cats and ferrets.
France — frequently asked questions
Does my dog need tapeworm treatment to enter France?
No. France does not require tapeworm treatment before arrival. Your dog does still need a vet-administered tapeworm treatment 24-120 hours before you return to the UK.
When should I book my AHC appointment before travel to France?
Your Official Vet must issue the AHC no more than 10 days before you travel to France. AHC Ready recommends booking within an 8-day window before travel, leaving a 2-day safety buffer against admin delays.
Can I take my pet to France by Eurotunnel or ferry instead of flying?
Yes. Eurotunnel Le Shuttle and cross-Channel ferries both carry pets on the same AHC and rabies-vaccination terms as flying. Check your specific operator's pet policy and booking requirements ahead of travel.