The Quick Answer: Yes. If you are a resident of Northern Ireland, you can still use your NI issued EU Pet Passport for travel to the Republic of Ireland and the rest of the EU in 2026. However, as of April 22 2026, residents of Great Britain can no longer use these passports and must use an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) for EU travel.
At Best Bark, we are all about making life easier for dog owners. Because the dog industry is so unregulated, we know how confusing these sudden policy changes can be. To get the facts straight, we sat down with Dr Niall from Ashwood Vets to break down exactly what you need for your summer holidays.
Is the Northern Ireland Pet Passport still valid?
For our local community, the “Gold Standard” for travel remains the NI issued EU Pet Passport.
Dr Niall’s Expert Take: “The NI Pet Passport is still a fantastic tool for local owners, but the rules around issuing them have tightened. To comply with the latest EU regulations, we are now required to verify proof of residency before signing off on any new or renewed passports. This is to ensure the system remains fair and isn’t being used by those living outside of Northern Ireland.”
Traveling from Great Britain to Northern Ireland or the EU
If you have friends visiting from GB, or if you are moving between the mainland and NI, the rules changed significantly this week.
- No More Loophole: GB residents can no longer use EU Pet Passports (even those issued in NI or the EU) to enter the EU or Northern Ireland. EU Pet Passports are only valid when issued to and used by eligible EU or Northern Ireland residents.
- The AHC: Residents of England, Scotland, and Wales must now obtain an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) for travel to the EU. For direct travel from Great Britain to Northern Ireland, the correct document is now the Northern Ireland Pet Travel Document (PTD), unless travelling onward to Ireland or another EU country, when an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) is required.
- Increased Validity: The good news? As of 2026, AHCs are now valid for 10 days for entry into the EU, and then for up to 6 months for onward travel within the EU and re-entry to Great Britain, as long as rabies vaccinations remain valid.
- The Windsor Framework: For direct travel between GB and NI (without heading to the Republic), the free, lifelong Pet Travel Document is still the best option for GB residents. This applies only to movements within the UK internal market and is not valid for onward travel into the EU.
Crossing the Border: The Republic of Ireland
For the Best Bark community, a weekend in Donegal or a trip to Dublin is a staple.
- From NI: Use your NI Pet Passport and check your rabies jab date.
- From GB: You must have a valid rabies vaccination, an AHC and a vet administered tapeworm treatment.
Dr Niall’s Expert Take: “One thing owners often miss is the timing of the tapeworm treatment. If you are coming from GB to the Republic of Ireland, the treatment must be given by a vet no less than 24 hours and no more than 120 hours before you arrive. Timing is everything here to avoid being turned back at the port.”
The 2026 “Responsible Owner” Travel Checklist
Before you hit the road, ensure you have ticked these boxes:
- Microchip Check: This must be done before any vaccinations are given or paperwork is signed.
- The 21 Day Rule: If your dog needs a rabies vaccination for their first passport or AHC, you must wait at least 21 days after the jab before you can travel. This waiting period does not apply to valid, in-date booster vaccinations.
- The 5 Pet Limit: You are restricted to five pets per private vehicle for non commercial travel.
- Owner Proximity: Your dog must travel within 5 days of your own travel date.
Dr Niall’s Expert Take: “Travel can be stressful for dogs, especially with the extra heat we’ve been seeing lately. Beyond the paperwork, make sure your dog is fit for the journey. Check their hydration, plan for frequent stops, and never leave them in a car, even for a few minutes.”
Best Bark is here to keep you informed and your dog safe. Finding dog friendly places in Northern Ireland is easy when you have the right paperwork in your pocket.
Are you heading off on an adventure this summer? Check out our verified listings for the best dog friendly spots to visit!
Niall is Best Bark’s Resident Vet & Dog Safety Expert and a veterinary surgeon at Ashwood Vets. He holds the RCVS Certificate in Advanced Veterinary Practice in Small Animal Surgery and is passionate about helping owners keep their dogs safe and healthy.
Credentials: MVB CertAVP(GSAS) PGCertVPS MRCVS
