Moving to Portugal with your pet can be a smooth process, provided you understand the latest regulations and prepare in advance. Whether you're bringing a dog, cat, or even a ferret, Portugal is a pet-friendly country with many accommodations and services that welcome animal companions, specially in the Algarve. Here's what you need to know to ensure a stress-free relocation for you and your pet.

Entry Requirements and Documentation

Portugal follows the pet travel regulations of the European Union. The rules vary slightly depending on whether you're coming from an EU country or a third country.

If you're coming from the EU:

• Your pet must have a valid EU pet passport.
• The pet must be microchipped with an ISO 11784/11785 compliant chip (the chip must be readable by a standard scanner).
• It must be vaccinated against rabies at least 21 days before travel, and the vaccination must be up to date.
• If you're coming from a non-EU country (including the UK and US):

Your pet must have an EU-compliant health certificate (Annex IV form) issued by an authorised veterinarian within 10 days before travel.

• A valid rabies vaccination is required (administered at least 21 days prior).
• Microchipping is mandatory and must be done before or at the time of rabies vaccination.
• For some countries, a rabies antibody titer test (at least 30 days after vaccination and 3 months before travel) is required.
• A vet inspection at the point of entry into Portugal may occur.

Quarantine Rules

There is no mandatory quarantine for pets arriving in Portugal, provided all requirements are met. However, pets arriving without the proper documents may be refused entry or subject to quarantine and veterinary checks at the owner's expense.

Number of Pets

You can travel with up to five pets. If you're travelling with more than five animals, and it's not for competitions, exhibitions, or sporting events, stricter commercial import rules apply.

Banned Breeds and Restrictions

Portugal does not ban specific breeds, but certain “potentially dangerous” dog breeds must follow extra rules:

• Pit Bull Terrier
• Rottweiler
• American Staffordshire Terrier
• Staffordshire Bull Terrier
• Dogo Argentino
• Fila Brasileiro
• Tosa Inu

These breeds require registration at your local Junta de Freguesia, mandatory insurance, and must be muzzled and leashed in public spaces.

Flying with Pets

Most major airlines flying to Portugal offer options for pets to travel in the cabin (for small animals) or in the cargo hold. Airlines like TAP Air Portugal and Lufthansa have pet-friendly policies. Always check individual airline rules, crate dimensions, and temperature restrictions before booking.

Pet-Friendly Homes in the Algarve

The Algarve is one of the most pet-friendly regions in Portugal. Many properties feature enclosed gardens, nearby walking trails, and access to pet-friendly beaches.

At ICON Property, we understand the importance of finding a home that suits all members of your family, including the furry ones. Our agents can help you identify properties with secure outdoor space, and close proximity to veterinary services, parks, or pet-friendly cafés.

Veterinary Services and Registration

Portugal has a wide network of veterinarians, and the Algarve offers high-quality vet clinics and emergency animal hospitals. After arrival, it’s recommended to:

• Register your pet with a local vet.
• Keep vaccinations up to date.
• Obtain a pet health booklet (Boletim Sanitário) for local medical records.
• If your pet is staying long-term, consider registering them with the SIAC (Sistema de Informação de Animais de Companhia), Portugal’s national pet registry.

Pet Supplies and Services

Pet food, accessories, and services are widely available across Portugal. Large pet stores like Kiwoko and local veterinary pharmacies offer everything you need. Pet sitting, grooming, and dog-walking services are also growing in popularity, especially in expat-friendly areas like Lagos, Vilamoura, and Loulé.

Bringing your pet to Portugal shouldn’t be complicated, and your new home should welcome your entire family. At ICON Property, we’re happy to help you find a pet-friendly home that suits your lifestyle, and we can connect you with trusted local services to make the move as seamless as possible.

Contact us to find your ideal pet-friendly property in the Algarve.