usda pet travel austria

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• Entry and re-entry of pets from third countries to Austria

Please note: As from 1.1.2022 the Federal Office for Consumer Health (Bundesamt für Verbrauchergesundheit, BAVG ) has become responsible for veterinary checks of imports from third countries and information in the area of checks on travellers. Since 16.12.2021 information contained in this article can be found on the website of the BAVG at the following link: Link to the topic travel on the BAVG website

Responsible for the content: USP Editorial Staff

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Travelling with pets in the EU and EEA  – the pet passport 

Table of content, general information.

Since 1 October, people wishing to travel between European Union (EU) or European Economic Area (EEA) member states with  dogs, cats or ferrets  have had to present a  pet passport,  which must be issued by a veterinary authority.

For animals subject to the Washington Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), it should be noted that CITES permits are required for Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway, which can be applied for at the Federal Ministry for Climate Protection, Environment, Energy, Mobility, Innovation and Technology ( BMK ).

Currently, there is no certification requirement for any other pets , including tropical aquarium fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds (except poultry), rodents, rabbits or invertebrates (except bees and crustaceans), taken across borders in the course of private travel .

The pet passport applies across the EU and the EEA . It is designed to be difficult to forge and to allow each individual animal to be identified and checked. You can get a pet passport

• from any freelance vet practising in Austria or
• from the University of Veterinary Medicine [ Veterinärmedizinischen Universität]

For all animals over the age of three months, the pet passport must include details of an approved vaccination against rabies (as well as any approved booster jabs). When the animal is vaccinated against rabies for the first time, the date from which it is considered to have been vaccinated should be entered into the passport.

A new form of pet passport was introduced on 29 December 2014. However, passports issued prior to this date are still valid.

Some EU member states impose additional requirements for animals to be treated against ticks and tapeworm .

The pet passport also includes various details about the keeper of the animal concerned. You can also record a change of ownership in the passport, and attach a photograph of the animal. All pet passports must include the animal's name, age, breed, gender and ID number.

Each traveller can take a maximum of five pets with them, provided each individual animal has its own passport. However, these animals must not be passed on to third parties or offered for sale.

If you are travelling abroad with dogs, cats or ferrets,  they must be tatooed with an ID number or micro-chipped to ensure they can be clearly identified. The microchip number and/or the clearly legible tattoo number must be entered in the animal's pet passport.

Tattoos were used to identify some animals up to 2 July 2011. From 3 July 2011, the only way of officially identifying cats and ferrets has been via a microchip. All dogs kept in Austria have had to be micro-chipped since 30 June 2008, and the owner/keeper must ensure that their dog is registered in the Austrian public database. Tattoos carried out prior to these dates are still valid, provided they are clearly legible.

Municipal and provincial authorities have the power to impose additional requirements within their remits, such as  mandating that animals must wear muzzles or be kept on a lead .

The EU 's requirements for travel with pets also apply in some  non- EU member states  (specifically, Andorra, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Monaco, Norway, San Marino, Switzerland and the Vatican City).

Competent authority

If you need to provide evidence that your pet is not infected with certain animal diseases, please contact

• your Municipal Offices German text or,Municipal Office 
• If you live in Vienna, you should contact the Veterinary Office Departments at the  Municipal District Offices German text

Further information

Further links.

• You can find out more about the requirements for  travelling with pets (→ BMSGPK ) on the webpages of the Austrian Ministry of Social Affairs, Health, Care and Consumer Protection.
• The European Commission's webpages also include  information on the movement of pet animals (→ EC ) .
• We recommend you consult the relevant  diplomatic representation(s) (→ BMEIA )  (embassies, consulates, etc.) and the relevant Austrian authorities about the latest requirements (including special requirements for travelling with pets under the age of three months) well ahead of your trip.
• The Austrian Automobile, Motorcycle and Touring Club (→ ÖAMTC ) German text  can also provide information on travel requirements for individual countries.
• Information on the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) German text as well as relevant forms German text ( incl. online application) can be found on the BMK website.

Legal basis

• Veterinärbehördliche Binnenmarktverordnung 2022
• Regulation ( EU ) No 576/2013 with regard to rules for non-commercial movements of pet birds into a Member State from a territory or a third country
• Federal Ministry for Climate Action, Environment, Energy, Mobility, Innovation and Technology
• Federal Ministry of Social Affairs, Health, Care and Consumer Protection
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Bringing Pets To: Austria

Transporting your pet to Austria? Our team of experts is here to assist you and ensure that this aspect of your relocation is as stress-free as possible, allowing you to concentrate on the human side of your move.

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What to Know Before Transporting Dogs and Cats to Austria

Microchip and vaccinations.

Make sure your pet meets these basic requirements so you can begin the import process.

Import Documentation

The EU requires endorsed import documentation that your veterinarian must complete.

The 5-Day Rule (and more)

Have you heard about the EU 5-Day Rule? Learn about this and other factors that could affect your move.

Austria Import Requirements and Timeline

Time frame: we recommend starting at least 30 days ahead

If transporting your pets to Austria, it's important to note that all pets must be microchipped and vaccinated before entry.

Please read below to ensure import compliance with the specific details and requirements.

How to start the process of transporting your pet to Austria

Each pet shall be identified using a microchip.

• No other form of identification is acceptable.
• The microchip should comply with ISO Standard 11784 or Annex A to ISO standard 11785. Italy currently accepts AVID-9 and AVID-10 in addition to ISO. The microchip must be implanted before the rabies vaccine is administered.
• All pets must have an original Rabies Certificate signed by the vet. During the final health exam, the Rabies vaccine must be at least 21 days old.

Further details regarding the rabies vaccine:

• Pets may be transported to Italy with a current one-year vaccine (also known as a “primary” vaccine).
• Pets may be transported to Italy with a 3-year vaccine administered less than a year ago (otherwise, it may be considered a booster).

Other recommended vaccines include:

• Dogs: Distemper, Hepatitis, Leptospirosis, Parainfluenza and Parvovirus (DHLPP) and Bordetella.
• Cats: Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus and Panleukopenia (FVRCP).

These should be valid at the time of import and administered no less than two weeks before the export date for maximum effectiveness.

Time frame: Within 10 days prior to departure (non-commercial)

As part of our services,  we provide detailed templates  for your veterinarian to ensure all forms are completed properly.

Additionally, our team is available to answer any questions you or your veterinarian may have throughout the process.

Proper paperwork prevents hangups at customs

EU Health Certificate

Your dedicated relocation coordinator will provide you with an EU Health Certificate that your accredited veterinarian must fill out and sign in a different color ink than the certificate's printing, usually blue ink.

This certificate is valid for ten days from the date of issue by the official veterinarian until the date of the checks at the EU point of entry. If you plan to travel further within the EU, don't hesitate to contact us for additional guidance.

USDA Endorsements

To ensure compliance with the USDA regulations, the following forms below must be sent to your local USDA for approval. 

• Microchip Implantation Record
• Rabies Certificate
• EU Vet Health Certificate
• Airline Health Certificate

It's important to note  that these forms should be readily available from your vet, but it's recommended to call ahead and confirm availability.

• Remember that your vet must complete the EU Health Certificate within ten days of departure.
• However, please note that this timeframe changes within the context of a commercial move, where additional requirements may apply.
• Read below for more information on the 5-day rule and commercial move requirements.

Important information to keep your move on track.

Before you transport your dog or cat to Austria, make sure you're aware of regulations unique to the EU!

What to know about about commerical moves and breed bans

EU 5-Day Rule

• If your dog or cat is being transported "non-commercially," they must fly within five days of their owner.
• If you cannot meet this 5-Day Rule, the move can still be carried out, but it will be considered a commercial move, which increases costs and changes the EU import requirements and timeline. In such cases, you will need to meet stricter import requirements. 

Unlisted Countries and Additional Requirements

If you come from an "unlisted country," your pet will need a rabies antibody test, also known as a titer. In this case, you must follow the below steps:

• Microchip and rabies vaccination (at least 30 days old before blood draw)
• Rabies antibody test performed by an accredited veterinarian and sent to an EU-approved laboratory.
• Before completing export paperwork, you must wait 90 days after the blood draw (assuming a passing result).

Find out if your origin country is listed here . 

Travel Stories and Tips

More Blog Posts from Austria

More Stories of Pet Moves to Austria

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Travelling with animals.

You can take your dog or cat with you on Austrian flights. Please read the following information carefully before booking a flight with your pet.

Please note

• You can carry up to two healthy pets in an approved carrying container.
• Your pet must be at last twelve weeks old. Young animals must be weaned from their mother.
• Your pet may be carried in the cabin and/or the cargo hold depending on its size, weight (including carrying container) and the relevant regulations of the country concerned. You will find all the details further down on this page.
• Special conditions apply to ​ travelling with assistance dogs (for example guide dogs or hearing dogs).

It is not possible to carry large animals in the cargo hold to certain destinations due to local conditions and restrictions.

Please note that dogs and cats that belong to snub-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds are not permitted in the hold as they are particularly sensitive to temperature and stress.

Please notify us in good time if you wish to bring your pet with you. We will check the conditions of carriage and the space available.

Did you book a holiday flight with flight numbers OS 2000-2999, 4000-4999 or 9000-9999?

Compliance with animal welfare provisions and import and export regulations for the animal

Please make sure to find out about the import and export regulations applicable to your pet in your departure, transit and destination countries in plenty of time and before booking your flight, for example from the relevant embassy.

We also reserve the right to impose stricter regulations and refuse the reservation on certain routes where necessary (for example to the United Kingdom) and exclude the animal from travel.

Please also consult your vet about the relevant animal welfare provisions. Obtain all the travel documentation required for your pet so that nothing will stand in the way of your trip.

Importing dogs into the USA

There are restrictions on importing dogs into the United States due to the risk of rabies. You can find more detailed information about these CDC restrictions and the possibility of obtaining an exemption on the United States Center for Disease Control website.

Importing dogs into Canada

Separate paperwork is required for importing a dog as a pet or trained service animal into Canada, including re-entry, to comply with Canadian entry requirements. If you cannot produce this, there is a risk of delays at the border and your pet may not be permitted to enter Canada. Please find out in good time exactly which documents you need before travelling to Canada with your animal or importing an animal into Canada.

Small pets in the cabin

The travel carrier must be:

• soft, bite-proof and leak-proof;
• insulated against odours;
• adequately ventilated even when closed; and
• large enough for the pet to stand, turn around and lie down normally.

The total weight of the animal and the travel carrier must not exceed 8 kg. The travel carrier must not exceed dimensions of 118 cm (55 x 40 x 23 cm) so that it can be stowed under the seat in front. Please note: in some countries, such as the United Kingdom and South Africa, animals must be carried as freight irrespective of their size.

We require your confirmation that the animal meets the stated requirements to enable you to take your pet with you into the cabin as hand luggage. Please present two printouts of the completed and signed forms at the check-in desk. Please note that the form is not required for assistance dogs on direct flights from/to the USA.

What does carriage cost?

1 = including pet 2 = length + width + height

Please note: a ticket service fee is also charged in addition to the fare specified and will vary depending on the place of departure. Other rules and fares may apply on flights operated by partner airlines (Codeshare) and on charter flights.

Large animals in the cargo hold

Dogs and cats for which there is no space in the passenger cabin may be carried in the cargo hold if necessary, subject to compliance with the relevant conditions of carriage. Please inform us of the size and weight of the pet-friendly carrying container you are providing at the time of booking. The container must comply with IATA (International Air Transport Association) regulations. We will check the availability of space and the loading options in the aircraft.

Austrian Airlines reserves the right to check the condition of the carrying container and the pet’s behaviour at check-in to ensure it is carried safely and securely throughout the journey.

A maximum of two pets, who must be accustomed to one another, each with a maximum individual weight of 14 kg may be accommodated in a single carrying container.

Please note: a ticket service fee is also charged in addition to the fare specified and will vary depending on the place of departure. Other rules and fares may apply on flights operated by partner airlines (Codeshare) and charter flights.

Please note that an additional fee of EUR 150 (or CHF 175 or USD 175) will be charged if you travel via Frankfurt (FRA), Munich (MUC), Vienna (VIE), Zurich (ZRH), Geneva (GVA) or Brussels (BRU). This applies to tickets issued after 1 April 2021.

How must a box be constructed for the carriage of dogs and cats in the air-conditioned cargo hold?

• The carrying container must be suitable for the cat or dog to be carried.
• The dimensions must be such that the animal can stand, move about and lie down in a natural position.
• The inside of the container must be smooth and have no protrusions that the animal can bite or scrape off to ensure the container remains intact.
• The top must be waterproof to prevent rain, snow or hail from getting in.
• Containers consisting of an upper and lower part must be securely screwed together.
• The container must be stable, lockable and clean, and must have a waterproof bottom lined with absorbent material.
• It must be possible to fasten the door openings securely.
• Wheels on the carrying container are not permitted. If it has wheels, they must be removed or locked in place before the container can be accepted.
• There must be ventilation on all four sides of the container. The ventilation holes must be small enough or covered with a grille to prevent any part of the animal’s body from protruding or sticking out to prevent any risk of injury.
• The ventilation holes on the sides and back must be on the top two-thirds of the container.
• Spacers must be integrated into the construction (both on the back and down the length). They are used as the container’s handles and ensure the ventilation holes are not blocked by other freight or bags.
• Separate bowls for both water and food must be provided and attached securely to the carrying container. Water containers must not be filled for the flight, but must be accessible from outside the container. Food and water for the flight can be provided in leak-proof containers.

Special conditions apply to dogs classified as fighting dogs and snub-nosed (brachycephalic) dog breeds.

Illustration of a carrying container for dogs and cats

Containers made of wire or wire mesh are not permitted for carriage by air.

• Door hinges and latches must protrude above and below the door openings on the horizontal projections by at least 1.60 centimetres.
• Ventilation holes
• Attached food and water containers

Which countries do not permit the carriage of large animals?

Please note that in some countries animals must be carried as freight irrespective of their size.

Can I transport an animal if I am not travelling myself?

You will find ​ more information about the carriage of unaccompanied animals on the Lufthansa Cargo website.

My pet is bigger or heavier than permitted. Is it still possible to carry it?

You will find ​ more information about the carriage of animals that are too big or too heavy on the Lufthansa Cargo website.

Dogs classified as fighting dogs and snub-nosed/brachycephalic breeds

Special conditions apply to the carriage of dogs classified as fighting dogs and snub-nosed/brachycephalic dog breeds.

Snub-nosed/brachycephalic breeds

Dogs and cats that belong to snub-nosed breeds have constricted airways due to their anatomy and may suffer from shortness of breath. The stress caused by carriage or high temperatures at the departure, transfer or destination airport may lead to circulatory problems and increased shortness of breath as a result. Your pet may therefore suffer serious injury to its health or even die during the journey. These breeds are therefore not permitted to be carried in the cargo hold.

Which breeds of dogs are covered by these regulations?

• Affenpinschers
• American Bully (see dogs classified as fighting dogs)
• Bulldogs (all breeds except American bulldogs)
• Pugs (all breeds)
• American pit bull terriers
• American Staffordshire terriers
• Boston terriers
• Brussels griffons
• Bull mastiffs
• Bull terriers
• English toy spaniels
• Japanese chins
• Japanese spaniels
• Staffordshire bull terriers

The restrictions also apply to mongrels of the breeds specified.

Which breeds of cats are covered by these regulations?

• British short-haired cats
• Exotic shorthairs
• Himalayan cats
• Persian cats
• Scottish fold cats

Dogs classified as fighting dogs

Animals classified as fighting dogs may only be carried in special crates and exclusively in the cargo hold. An exception is made for dogs classified as fighting dogs between the ages of three and six months. These dogs can be carried in standard transport crates. Whether the dog may be carried in the cabin or cargo hold depends on the basic criteria that apply to the carriage of dogs.

Please also note the additional information about the carriage of animals in the cargo hold for the carriage of fighting dog breeds. Please also note the additional information about the carriage of animals in the cabin for dogs classified as fighting dogs aged from three to six months.

Which breeds are classified as fighting dogs?

• American Bully (prohibited in principle due to potential snub-nosed characteristics)
• American bulldogs
• Dogo Argentino
• Karabash (Kangal) (Anatolian Shepherd dog)
• Caucasian Ovcharka (Caucasian Shepherd dog)
• Rottweilers

Carrying containers for dogs classified as fighting dogs

Special carrying containers are required for carriage that must meet the IATA requirements.

• The carrying container must be constructed of wood, metal, synthetic materials, welded wire mesh or wire mesh.
• Additional requirements regarding the frame, sides, floor, top and opening flaps of the carrying container must also be met.
• No part of the carrying container must be made of plastic.
• The opening flap must be made of heavy-duty wire mesh, metal or reinforced wood and must have a secure lock that cannot be opened accidentally.
• The container openings must be small enough to ensure that no part of the animal’s body fits through, and the container must ensure protection against bites or scratches from the animal.

• Sliding panel with two ventilation holes each with a diameter of 10 cm
• Entry/exit door
• Meshed ventilation holes
• Spacers with handles
• Obligatory declarations: “This way up: IATA Live Animals”
• Forklift bars
• Food and water containers with access from outside
• Drainage tray
• Welded grille

Assistance dogs

General requirements for taking assistance dogs into the cabin.

To ensure the safe and undisturbed operation of the flight, your dog must be trained to be obedient to your commands and must behave appropriately in a public space (in other words no barking, growling or jumping up at people).

If your dog does not behave in an appropriate manner, Austrian Airlines may transfer the dog to the cargo hold at an additional cost or refuse to carry the animal. You are liable for any damage and additional costs arising from the carriage of your dog.

Certain requirements must be met for you to take your dog into the cabin. We have summarised the most important information for you:

Registering recognised assistance dogs on flights outside the USA

We will carry one (1) assistance dog free of charge.

Definition of an assistance dog

• It is a dog, regardless of breed or type.
• which includes people with a visual, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual or other mental disability.

Entry regulations

It is your responsibility to comply with all the relevant import and export regulations, as well as the animal welfare provisions for your animal for the entire journey.

Forms required

Please send us the training certificate for your assistance dog.

a training certificate from a training institution that holds accreditation from the following organisations:

• Assistance Dogs International (ADI);
• Assistance Dogs Europe (ADEu);
• International Guide Dog Federation (IGDF);
• International Guide Dog Federation (IGDF).

If you are unable to present this, your dog will travel under the usual conditions of carriage for pets, either in the passenger cabin or in the cargo hold depending on its size and weight and for an additional charge. You can find further information under “Small pets in the cabin” and “Large animals in the cargo hold”.

Please also submit the breed, weight and age of the animal.

Please send us the training certificate for your assistance dog:

• Messerli Research Institute;

a certificate issued by a training institution and/or a dog trainer

• stating the name and address;
• details of the nature and duration of the training; and
• the task for which the dog has been trained and has successfully completed.

Please note that a certificate of completed obedience training or the completed DOT Form is not sufficient for travel outside the USA. Teach-yourself and online training sites are also not recognised.

If you are unable to present this, your dog will travel under the usual conditions of carriage for pets, either in the passenger cabin or in the cargo hold depending on its size and weight and for an additional charge.

You can find further information under “Small pets in the cabin” and “Large animals in the cargo hold” .

Conditions for carriage on board

Your assistance dog

• must fit in the footwell in front of your seat and be attached to your safety belt with a lead provided by Austrian Airlines;
• must remain under your direct control for the duration of the flight;
• must not sit on a passenger seat; and
• must be at least four months old.

You must bring a muzzle for the dog with you. You will be asked to muzzle your dog if a situation arises where your dog poses a risk to other passengers. Otherwise you will be refused permission to take your dog on Austrian Airlines flights. You are not obliged to carry a muzzle on flights to and from Canada. However, we strongly recommend that you bring one with you.

Registering recognised assistance dogs on non-stop flights to/from the USA

We will carry two (2) assistance dogs free of charge.

• Emotional support dogs and assistance dogs in training do not qualify as assistance dogs.

Important note: from 1 March 2021, Austrian Airlines will only accept trained assistance dogs in the cabin .

Emotional support dogs and assistance dogs in training do not qualify as assistance dogs. These dogs travel under the usual conditions of carriage for pets either in the passenger cabin or in the cargo hold, depending on its size and weight and for an additional charge. You can find further information under ​ ”Small pets in the cabin” and ​ ”Large animals in the cargo hold” .

If you are travelling with an assistance dog, you must complete the following forms and submit them to our Special Cases Desk as a condition of carriage. You must do so on or after the date you purchase your ticket.

• If you are travelling with an assistance dog and have made a reservation more than 48 hours before the first scheduled departure time of your itinerary , you must submit these forms electronically or in paper format at least 48 hours before your departure.
• If you are travelling with an assistance dog and have made a reservation less than 48 hours before the first scheduled departure time of your itinerary , you must submit these forms at the departure gate on the day of your journey.

With this form you are confirming the health, training and behaviour of the animal.

This form is required for flights of eight hours or more.

Here you state that your animal does not need to relieve itself or does so in a way that is not a health hazard or a hygiene problem.

Keep this form ready to hand also during your flight.

If you have booked a connecting flight for yourself and your assistance dog, please note that you must provide proof of training for the dog.

It is a federal crime to make materially false, fictitious or fraudulent statements, entries, or representations knowingly and wilfully on the Service Animal Air Transportation Form or Service Animal Relief Attestation Form to secure disability accommodations provided under the U.S. Department of Transportation regulations.

We strongly recommend that you also bring a muzzle for added safety and out of consideration for other passengers. You will be asked to muzzle your dog if a situation arises where your dog poses a risk to the safety of other passengers. Otherwise you will be refused permission to take your dog on Austrian Airlines flights.

Acceptance before departure

Austrian Airlines may verify that an animal is approved as an assistance dog in accordance with the U.S. Department of Transportation regulations. To determine if an animal is an assistance dog, our staff may (1) observe the animal to determine if it exhibits any disturbed or aggressive behaviour that suggests it has not been successfully trained to behave appropriately in a public environment or (2) check certain physical indicators.

Assistance dog size

All assistance dogs must fit in the footwell at the passenger’s seat unless this would conflict with U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) safety requirements or German/European law, or would restrict the space of another passenger.

Using a lead

Austrian Airlines requires that all assistance dogs on board and in airport areas owned, leased or controlled by Austrian Airlines must be kept on a lead by the assistance dog’s owner or handler (if applicable) at all times.

Refusal of carriage to assistance dogs

In accordance with the U.S. Department of Transportation regulations, Austrian Airlines may refuse to carry an assistance dog in the following circumstances:

• The assistance dog poses a direct threat to the health or safety of other persons.
• The assistance dog is causing a significant disturbance in the cabin or gate area of the airport, or its behaviour in the aircraft or gate area of the airport indicates that it has not been adequately trained to behave appropriately in public areas.
• Carriage of the assistance dog would violate applicable safety or health requirements of a US federal agency or territory, or a foreign government.
• The passenger with a disability who wishes to travel with an assistance dog in the cabin does not submit the completed, up-to-date forms required by Austrian Airlines.

In accordance with the U.S. Department of Transportation regulations, Austrian Airlines reserves the right to hold the passenger travelling with an assistance dog liable for any damage caused by the assistance dog.

Emotional support animals

From 1 March 2021, Austrian Airlines will only accept trained assistance dogs in the cabin.

Emotional support dogs will no longer be classified as assistance dogs and new bookings will no longer be accepted after this date. These dogs travel under the usual conditions of carriage for pets either in the passenger cabin or in the cargo hold depending on their size and weight and for an additional charge. More information can be found below:

This is how you can take your pet with you when you travel

Registering a pet.

Please state that you wish to bring your pet with you at the time of booking. We will check the conditions of carriage and the availability of space and contact you.

Preparing for the flight

Be well prepared for your flight by checking the conditions for carrying boxes before departure. Consult your vet about your pet’s general condition and obtain the necessary documents depending on entry requirements at your destination.

Guests with pets can use online and mobile check-in 23 hours before departure. You must collect your boarding pass from the check-in desk at the airport. Bring your pet to the check-in desk in a suitable carrying container no later than two hours, but no earlier than three hours before departure.

Tips for the wellbeing of your four-legged friend

Flying is not only stressful for us humans. We have put together a few tips for you to prepare your pet for the journey and make it as comfortable as possible:

• Get your pet used to the carrying container at home as much as possible by placing the pet in the closed container for a few hours several times and then rewarding it afterwards.
• Many pets are very nervous before and during the flight. Please consult your vet if you are considering whether you want to calm your pet with medication. The pet’s reactions are often not predictable and may lead to circulatory problems.
• Place a blanket with a familiar smell and your pet’s favourite toy in the carrying container to calm the animal.

Ask your vet how to adjust your pet’s food during the flight.

What rules apply after Brexit?

Please refer to the ​ official Brexit information .

What must I note if part of the route is operated by another airline?

All the regulations given here apply solely to flights operated by Austrian. Please make sure that you check the regulations of the airline operating the flight for codeshare flights. Check that your pet will also be accepted by all the airlines involved if you are travelling with more than one airline.

Taking pets into Austrian Lounges

You are also welcome to take your four-legged friends with you into our lounges. However, please understand that your dogs or cats should not be allowed to wander freely around Austrian Airlines lounges out of consideration for our other guests and should await their onward journey in their carrying container or pet carrier. Assistance dogs are exempt from this rule.

1 We will deal with your concern as quickly as possible. The data you provide will only be used to process your enquiry. Your data will not be shared with third parties unless Austrian is obliged to do so for legal reasons Email communication with Lufthansa Group airlines is not encrypted. Please note this in particular when sending personal data, such as your name, contact details or travel information, and most importantly do not refer to them in the subject line.

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From August 1, 2024, Onward: What Your Dog Needs to Enter the United States

At a glance.

Starting on August 1, 2024, dogs entering or returning to the United States must meet new, specific requirements depending on where they have been in the 6 months before entering the U.S. and where they received their rabies vaccines (if required).

Requirements for all dogs

Requirements for dogs with a current and valid rabies vaccination administered in the united states.

• Requirements for foreign-vaccinated dogs that have been in a country with high risk of dog rabies within 6 months before entry

Requirements for dogs that have been ONLY in countries that are dog rabies-free or low-risk during the 6 months before entry

All dogs must:

• Be at least 6 months of age at time of entry or return to the United States
• This must have been implanted prior to any required rabies vaccination
• The microchip number must be documented on all required forms and in all accompanying veterinary records
• Dogs may not enter the United States if they are carrying a disease contagious to people.
• Isolation of the dog, veterinary examination, and additional testing, at the importer’s expense, may be required to determine if the dog has a contagious disease and prevent spread if the dog does not appear healthy upon arrival.

This form should be filled out online 2-10 days before arrival. If the information on the form changes before the dog arrives, you must submit a new form and indicate you are making changes to an existing form. All information, including port of entry where the dog is arriving, must be correct at time of arrival.

• This form requires you to upload a clear photograph of the dog showing its face and body. Dogs that will be less than one year of age at time of arrival should have the photograph taken within 10 days before arrival.
• There is no charge to importers for submitting this form.
• Additional requirements for dogs with a current rabies vaccination administered in the United States
• Additional requirements for dogs that have been in a country at high-risk for dog rabies within the 6 months before entry and do NOT have appropriate documentation of current US-issued rabies vaccine
• Additional requirements for dogs that have been ONLY in countries that are dog rabies-free or low-risk in the 6 months before entry

Dogs that do not meet all entry requirements or do not have accurate and valid forms will be denied entry to the United States and returned to the country of departure at the importer’s expense. These requirements apply to all dogs, including service dogs and dogs that were born in the United States.

Specific requirements depend on whether the dog has been in a high-risk country for dog rabies  in the past 6 months.

Dogs with a current rabies vaccination administered in the United States that have been in a high-risk country for dog rabies must:  

• Meet all requirements in the “All Dogs” section above
• The Certification of U.S.-issued Rabies Vaccination form is required for the importation (re-entry) of U.S.-vaccinated dogs that have been in high-risk countries for dog rabies  within the 6 months before re-entry into the United States.
• Please note, for dogs that left the United States before August 1, 2024, and have been in a high-risk country, the importer may instead present a copy of the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)-endorsed export health certificate that was used to ship the dog from the United States, if that export health certificate documents the microchip number and valid rabies vaccination administered in the United States. The rabies vaccination must be valid (not expired) on the date of return or the form will be invalid.
• Arrive at the location listed on the CDC Dog Import Form receipt (This can be any airport, land border crossing, or sea port but you must select this location when you complete the CDC Dog Import Form.)

Dogs with a current rabies vaccination administered in the United States that have NOT been in a high-risk country in the last 6 months must:

• A Certification of U.S.-Issued Rabies Vaccine form that was endorsed by USDA before the dog departed the United States; or
• The USDA export certificate must demonstrate the dog is 6 months of age or older and list the microchip number.
• The export certificate must be for the dog rabies-free or low-risk country where the dog’s return itinerary originated.
• Arrive at the location listed on the CDC Dog Import Form receipt (This can be any airport, land border crossing, or sea port but you must select this location when you complete the CDC Dog Import Form .)

Important information about the Certification of U.S.-Issued Rabies Vaccination Form

The Certification of U.S.-Issued Rabies Vaccination form must be completed before the dog departs the U.S. Before asking your veterinarian to complete this form, verify the following requirements will be met:

• Ensure your dog will be at least 6 months of age on date of return to the U.S.
• Have your dog microchipped with an International Organization for Standardization (ISO)-compatible microchip (implanted before any required rabies vaccinations)
• Ensure the veterinarian scans the dog for the ISO-compatible microchip and records the microchip number at the time of vaccine appointment. Rabies vaccines administered prior to microchip implantation will not be considered valid.
• Ensure the rabies vaccination will be valid for the entire duration of your travels. If your dog’s U.S.-issued rabies vaccination lapses while overseas and your dog has been in a high-risk country in the past 6 months, your dog will need to be revaccinated overseas and meet requirements for foreign-vaccinated dogs to return to the U.S., including having a rabies serology titer, arriving at a specific port of entry, and possible quarantine requirements.
• Your dog’s first rabies vaccination must be administered at least 28 days before travel.
• Ensure the veterinarian submits this form to the USDA for official endorsement through the VEHCS portal
• Your dog must travel with a printed copy of the official endorsed form upon your dog’s return to the United States if your dog has been in a high-risk country within the 6 months before returning to the U.S.

Dogs that departed the U.S. prior to August 1, 2024, and have been in a high-risk country in the past 6 months, may have either the Certification of U.S.-Issued Rabies Vaccination form or the USDA APHIS-endorsed export health certificate for re-entry into the United States. Without one of these forms your dog will need to meet the requirements specific to the risk category of the countries where they have been in the 6 months before returning to the United States.

The export health certificate must document the microchip number and the rabies vaccination date. The rabies vaccine must be valid (not expired) on the date of return or the form will be invalid.

Requirements for foreign-vaccinated dogs that have been in a country with high risk of dog rabies within 6 months before entry

Dogs, including service dogs, that have been in a country at high-risk for dog rabies within the 6 months before entry and do not have appropriate documentation of current U.S.-issued rabies vaccine must:

• Meet all requirements in the “All Dogs” section
• Ensure the dog is microchipped with an International Organization for Standardization (ISO)-compatible microchip before receiving the rabies vaccination and the number is recorded on the veterinary documents or the vaccine will not be considered valid
• Verify the dog is at least 12 weeks (84 days) of age when vaccinated against rabies
• The dog must have a valid (i.e., non-expired) rabies vaccination. If it’s the dog’s first vaccination or if the dog’s vaccination coverage has lapsed, the vaccine must be administered at least 28 days before arrival to the United States.
• The Certification of Foreign Rabies Vaccination and Microchip form must be completed by your veterinarian AND endorsed by an official veterinarian in the exporting country.
• The blood sample for the rabies serology titer must have been drawn at least 30 days after the dog’s first valid rabies vaccination and at least 28 days before entry to the U.S.
• Dogs with a history of multiple valid rabies vaccinations administered after the microchip was placed may have the sample for the rabies serology titer drawn at any time after a rabies booster vaccination as long as the dog’s first vaccine was given at least 30 days before the blood sample was drawn and there has been no lapse in vaccine coverage. If a lapse occurs, the sample must be drawn at least 30 days after the valid booster vaccination was administered.
• The sample must be sent to a CDC-approved rabies serology laboratory . If there is no CDC-approved laboratory in your country, your veterinarian may draw the sample and send it internationally to a CDC-approved laboratory.
• Passing results must be obtained in order for a serology to be valid.
• Rabies serology titer results will be considered valid for the life of the dog as long as the dog’s rabies vaccination coverage does not lapse. If a lapse occurs, a new rabies serology titer will be required and that sample must be drawn at least 30 days after the new vaccination was administered.
• If the dog does not have a valid rabies serology titer, it will be required to be quarantined at a CDC-registered animal care facility for 28 days after the dog is revaccinated by the facility’s veterinarian.
• All foreign-vaccinated dogs that have been in a high-risk country in the previous 6 months must have a reservation for examination, verification of age, documents, and microchip number, and administration of a rabies booster vaccination at a CDC-registered animal care facility immediately upon arrival in the United States.
• Dogs that do not have a valid rabies serology titer must also have a reservation for quarantine. Dogs will be quarantined at the facility for 28 days at the importer’s expense after being revaccinated by the facility’s veterinarian.
• All CDC-registered animal care facility expenses, including exam, revaccination, and quarantine (if required), are the responsibility of the importer.
• The facility will need copies of all required documents prior to confirming your reservation.
• Ensure the dog meets any facility-specific requirements (contact facility for additional information).
• If after arrival the CDC-registered animal care facility determines that your documents are not valid or the dog’s microchip number, age, or description does not match the paperwork provided, the dog may be denied entry and returned to the country of departure at your expense.
• Dogs that have evidence of illness or are not healthy will be required to have testing to confirm they do not have contagious diseases before they will be eligible for release, which may extend the required quarantine period beyond 28 days. Any required testing or extended stay in quarantine will be at the importer’s expense, so please ensure dogs are healthy upon arrival (including no evidence of fleas, ticks, or skin diseases).
• Dogs must arrive to the U.S. at the airport where the CDC-registered animal care facility is located. This must be the location where the dog has a reservation.
• This must also be the airport listed on the CDC Dog Import Form
• Domestic flights or other forms of travel to other locations in the U.S. are not permitted until after the dog receives required follow-up services at the CDC-registered animal care facility and is cleared for entry.
• SERVICE DOGS ARRIVING BY SEA : Service dogs, as defined in 14 CFR 382.3, may arrive by sea if they meet the requirements in the “All Dogs” section, have a complete Certification of Foreign Rabies Vaccination and Microchip form and a valid rabies serology titer, and are traveling with their handler. Emotional support animals are not service animals under this definition.

Countries that are not on the list of countries at high risk for dog rabies  are considered to be free of or low risk for dog-mediated rabies virus variant (DMRVV) (called dog rabies-free or low-risk countries on these webpages).

Dogs, including service dogs, that have been ONLY in dog rabies-free or low-risk countries during the 6 months before entry into the United States must:

• Certification of Foreign Rabies Vaccination and Microchip form, including the endorsement by an official veterinarian of the dog rabies-free or low-risk country where the dog has been located; AND EITHER (1) a valid rabies serology titer OR (2) veterinary records* (which list the microchip number) for the dog from the exporting country for the previous 6 months. The form must be completed within 30 days before arrival to the United States.
• Certification of U.S.-Issued Rabies Vaccination form that was endorsed by USDA before the dog departed the United States
• Valid USDA-endorsed export health certificate listing the destination as the dog rabies-free or low-risk country from which the dog is returning
• Certification of Dog Arriving from DMRVV-free or Low-Risk Country into the United States form endorsed by an official veterinarian in the exporting country; AND veterinary records* (which list the microchip number) for the dog from the exporting country for the 6 months before traveling to the U.S. The form must be completed within the 30 days before arriving to the United States.
• Foreign export certificate that documents the dog is at least 6 months of age, lists the dog’s International Organization for Standardization (ISO)-compatible microchip number, and has been endorsed by an official veterinarian of the exporting country; AND veterinary records* (which list the microchip number) for the dog from the exporting country for the previous 6 months
• Arrive at the location listed on the CDC Dog Import Form receipt (This can be any airport, land border crossing, or sea port but you must select it when you complete the CDC Dog Import Form .)

Any documentation that is not from the United States must be completed in the country where the dog’s travel originates. For example, if the dog’s documents were issued in France, the dog may not enter the U.S. via a land-border crossing from Mexico to the U.S.

*Examples of veterinary records that must accompany completed forms are European Union pet passports or proof of payment for veterinary services received in the exporting low-risk country for the previous 6 months. Records must include the dog’s microchip number.

For more information, see: Frequently Asked Questions on CDC Dog Importations  

If you have questions or need more information, please contact CDC-INFO at (800) 232-4636.

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The CDC issues new rules for bringing dogs into the U.S., aimed at keeping out rabies

Traveling internationally with a dog — or adopting one from abroad — just got a bit more complicated. The CDC issued new rules intended to reduce the risk of importing rabies. mauinow1/Getty Images/iStockphoto hide caption

Traveling internationally with a dog — or adopting one from abroad — just got a bit more complicated. The CDC issued new rules intended to reduce the risk of importing rabies.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced new rules Wednesday aimed at preventing dogs with rabies from coming into the United States.

Under the new regulations, all dogs entering the U.S. must appear healthy, must be at least six months old, must have received a microchip, and the owner must verify the animal either has a valid rabies vaccine or has not been in a country where rabies is endemic in the last six months.

Dogs coming from a country that is considered at high risk for rabies and who received a rabies vaccine from another country must meet additional criteria. Those include getting a blood test before they leave the other country to make sure the animal has immunity against rabies, a physical examination upon arrival and getting a U.S. rabies vaccine. If the dog doesn't have a blood test showing immunity, it must be quarantined for 28 days.

These are much stricter requirements than existing regulations for dog importation — for those who want to adopt from abroad and for those traveling internationally with their pets.

Shots - Health News

Vaccine hesitancy affects dog-owners, too, with many questioning the rabies shot.

But, U.S pet owners shouldn't panic, says Dr. Emily Pieracci , a CDC veterinary medicine officer. "This really isn't a big change," she says. "It sounds like a lot, but not when you break it down, it's really not a huge inconvenience for pet owners."

Rabies was eliminated in dogs in the United States in 2007 , but unvaccinated canines can still contract the disease from rabid wildlife such as raccoons, skunks or bats.

And rabies remains one of the deadliest diseases that can be transmitted from animals to humans around the world. Globally, about 59,000 people die from rabies each year. The illness is nearly always fatal once a person begins to experience symptoms .

Today, pet dogs in the United States are routinely vaccinated against rabies.

"This new regulation is really set to address the current challenges we're facing," Pieracci says. Those include an increased risk of disease "because of the large-scale international movement of dogs," she adds, as well as fraudulent documentation for imported dogs.

The U.S. imports an estimated 1 million dogs each year. In 2021, amid a surge of pandemic-inspired dog adoptions, the CDC suspended importations from 113 countries where rabies is still endemic because of an increase in fraudulent rabies vaccination certificates. The countries include Kenya, Uganda, Brazil, Colombia, Russia, Vietnam, North Korea, Nepal, China and Syria.

That suspension will end when the new rules go into effect Aug. 1.

"This will bring us up to speed with the rest of the international community which already has measures in place to prevent the importation of of rapid dogs," Pieracci said. "So, we're playing catch-up in a sense."

The new regulations replace rules that date back to 1956. Those rules only required that dogs be vaccinated before entering the country.

To control rabies in wildlife, the USDA drops vaccine treats from the sky

"As you can imagine a lot has changed since then," Pieracci says. "International travel has increased dramatically and people's relationships with dogs have changed since the 1950s. During that time, it really wasn't common for dogs to be considered family member. They didn't sleep in peoples' beds. They certainly didn't accompany them on international trips."

The new rules won praise from the American Veterinary Medical Association . The organization "is pleased to see the implementation of this new rule that will help protect public health and positively impact canine health and welfare," said Dr. Rena Carlson, president of the AVMA in a statement to NPR.

Dog rescue advocates also welcomed the changes.

"This updated regulation will allow us to continue bringing dogs to the U.S. safely and efficiently," Lori Kalef, director of programs for SPCA International, said in a statement.

"We have seen that dogs have been a lifeline for U.S. service members during their deployments. One of our key programs reunites these service members and their animal companions here in the U.S. once they have returned home," she said. "The CDC's commitment to improving its regulations has a profound impact on the animals and service members we support, and this new policy is an important piece of that effort."

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