Moving to Poland: Traveling with Your Pets

Published on October 24, 2025 and written by Cyril Jarnias

Relocating to Poland with a pet can be a rewarding adventure, but it requires careful preparation to ensure a smooth transition for both you and your faithful companion. The administrative procedures related to relocation may seem complex; however, with the right information, you can quickly navigate through Polish formalities.

Essential Procedures

First, make sure your pet is identified by microchip and that its vaccinations, particularly against rabies, are up to date.

Next, prepare all necessary documents, such as the European pet passport and a health certificate dated within ten days before travel.

Practical Travel Tips

Practical tips on choosing suitable means of transportation and adapting to a new climate will also be covered to help you provide the best possible environment for your pet in Poland.

Understanding Legal Requirements for Entering Poland with a Pet

Legal Requirements for Entering Poland with a Pet

Requirement	Detail
European Pet Passport	Mandatory for dogs, cats, and ferrets; issued by an authorized veterinarian
Rabies Vaccination	Mandatory vaccine; must be administered more than 21 days and less than one year prior
Electronic Identification	Microchip (ISO 11784/11785) required; tattoo accepted if done before 07/03/2011
Minimum Pet Age	15 weeks (minimum age for rabies vaccine validity)
Documents to Present	Passport, vaccination record, proof of identification, vaccination certificate
Permitted Species	Dogs, cats, ferrets (other animals subject to specific rules)
Prohibited Breeds	Certain attack dog breeds or those from dangerous crossbreeds

Details and Deadlines to Follow:

• Pet Passport: The European passport is essential. It includes identification, rabies vaccination, and other health information.
• Rabies Vaccination: The animal must be vaccinated at least 21 days before entering Polish territory. The vaccination is only recognized if the animal was at least 12 weeks old at the time of injection. Entry is therefore only possible from 15 weeks of age.
• Microchip Identification: The microchip must be implanted before the rabies vaccination. If the animal has a legible tattoo applied before July 3, 2011, it remains valid.
• Blood Tests: Not required for animals from another EU country, but mandatory for those from certain non-rabies-free third countries. In this case, a serological test must be conducted at least 30 days after vaccination and three months before entering Poland.
• Prohibited Breeds: First-category attack dogs (such as pit-bull, boerbull, tosa, etc.) are generally prohibited from import.

Specific Customs Regulations:

• Upon arrival, you may be required to present documents to customs or a border control veterinarian.
• In case of non-compliance (missing vaccination, non-compliant identification, missing passport), the animal may be quarantined or refused entry.
• Limit of pets per traveler: up to 5 pets (beyond that, transport is subject to commercial import rules).

Practical Tips:

• Ensure all passport information is up to date and legible.
• Make sure the microchip is functional before departure.
• Plan ahead: administer the vaccination at least one month before travel if the animal is not yet vaccinated.
• Consult your veterinarian for regulatory updates and any additional treatments needed before travel.

Competent Polish Authorities and Organizations:

• Główny Inspektorat Weterynarii (Polish Chief Veterinary Inspectorate): official body for animal health and imports.
• Border Veterinary Services: for doubts or additional checks upon entry into the territory.

For up-to-date information, consult the official websites of the Polish Ministry of Agriculture, the Polish Veterinary Inspectorate, or the Polish Embassy.

Key Takeaway: Identification, rabies vaccination, and the European passport are mandatory for the entry of a dog, cat, or ferret into Poland. Strictly adhering to deadlines and regulations avoids any difficulties at the border.

Best Practices for Safe International Pet Transport

Choosing a transport company specialized in animals is essential to ensure the safety and well-being of the animal during international travel, particularly to Poland. Only companies complying with international standards, such as those of IATA and OMSA, provide appropriate care throughout the journey, minimizing stress and health risks for the animal.

Key Safety Practices to Follow:

• Use IATA-approved transport crates, ensuring durability, ventilation, and comfort for the animal.
• Verify that the animal is fit to travel, in good health, properly identified, and shows no signs of illness or injury.
• Ensure the carrier has official authorizations and that staff possess the required skills to accompany and monitor the animal.
• Provide access to water, food, and rest throughout the journey.
• Prepare the animal for the flight: crate acclimatization, familiarization with noises and movements, prior veterinary consultation.

Specific Veterinary Requirements for Poland:

• Present an up-to-date vaccination record: particularly against rabies and other regulated diseases.
• Provide a veterinary health certificate issued shortly before departure.
• Perform required parasite treatments (depending on species and origin).
• Check for any quarantines or temporary restrictions.

Documentation Required for Polish Customs Clearance:

• European pet passport (for dogs, cats, and ferrets).
• International health certificate.
• Proof of vaccinations and treatments performed.
• Transport authorization and booking confirmations from an approved carrier.

How to Find Qualified Professionals:

• Look for carriers with IATA certification and recognized experience in animal transport.
• Check for partnerships with veterinarians or specialized animal welfare services.
• Consult reviews and recommendations on official platforms or from animal protection associations.

Tips for Acclimating Your Pet to Its New Environment in Poland:

• Set up the animal in a quiet, secure space upon arrival.
• Maintain familiar cues (familiar objects, usual diet, routine).
• Gradually introduce new places and people.
• Monitor health status and behavior during the first few days.
• Contact a local veterinarian for a post-arrival check-up.

Step	Key Requirement/Tip	Justification
Choosing a Carrier	Specialization, IATA certification	Safety, regulatory compliance
Veterinary Preparation	Vaccines, treatments, health certificate	Compliance with Polish standards
Transport Equipment	IATA-approved crate, suitable accessories	Welfare and safety
Customs Documentation	Pet passport, certificates, authorizations	Legal and swift passage
Accompaniment	Qualified staff, monitoring during travel	Stress reduction, supervision
Acclimatization	Quiet space, routine, veterinary check	Successful adaptation

Choosing a competent professional, carefully preparing the journey, and anticipating arrival are key to ensuring the well-being and safety of the animal during international transport to Poland.

Adapting Your Pet to Life in Poland

Quarantine and Vaccination

The rabies vaccination is mandatory for a pet’s entry into Poland. It must be administered by an authorized veterinarian after microchip identification, on an animal at least 12 weeks old.

After the first injection, a 21-day waiting period is required before travel. Boosters must be given according to the vaccine’s schedule without interruption; otherwise, the procedure must restart.

Young animals not vaccinated or not fully immunized against rabies are not permitted to enter Polish territory.

There is generally no quarantine for animals arriving from the EU or third countries complying with health protocols.

A European pet passport and a valid health certificate are required.

Requirement	Detail
Identification	Microchip (or tattoo if before 07/03/2011)
Minimum Age	12 weeks (15 weeks recommended)
Mandatory Vaccine	Rabies (21-day wait after initial injection)
Quarantine	No quarantine if compliant with requirements
Required Documents	European passport + health certificate

Climate and Well-being

The Polish climate features cold winters (sometimes sub-zero temperatures, snow) and moderately warm summers.

Prepare coat care products: coats for short-haired dogs, paw balm, regular brushing to limit shedding.

In spring and summer, protection against ticks and fleas is essential: anti-parasite collars, spot-ons, regular checks after nature walks.

Adapt diet: increase energy intake in winter if needed, enhanced hydration in summer.

Ensure suitable shelter, especially for animals spending time outdoors.

Languages and Commands

Basic commands are often given in Polish at kennels or training centers (e.g., “siad” for “sit”, “do mnie” for “come”).

It can be useful to learn a few commands in Polish to facilitate the animal’s social adaptation, especially in a bilingual environment.

Animals generally adapt well to new words with a bit of patience and positive reinforcement.

French Command	Polish Command
Sit	Siad
Come	Do mnie
Stay	Zostań
Lie Down	Leżeć
No	Nie

Veterinary Care

Veterinary clinics are present in all major cities and most small Polish towns.

To choose a good veterinarian:

• Check availability of emergency services.
• Ensure the clinic offers tests, X-rays, surgery, and hospitalization if needed.
• Ask for recommendations from other expatriates or consult online reviews.
• Prefer a veterinarian who speaks English or French if Polish is not mastered.

Plan an appropriate budget: veterinary care in Poland is generally less expensive than in Western Europe, but prices vary by region.

Walking and Nature

Poland offers many parks, forests, and nature reserves where you can walk your pet.

Dogs must generally be kept on a leash in public spaces; off-leash freedom is sometimes permitted in specific areas.

It is important to respect local regulations: some protected areas (national parks, reserves) may limit pet access.

Picking up waste is mandatory in most cities.

Local Culture and Restrictions

Pets are well accepted in Poland, with a dynamic dog and cat culture (cat cafes, dog parks).

Certain breeds considered dangerous are subject to restrictions or specific declarations.

Exotic pets are subject to regulations on protected or exotic species.

Expatriate anecdote: “My dog loved the wide-open spaces and the friendliness of urban parks. At first, we had to get used to commands in Polish, but with the help of local trainers, adaptation was quick. Polish veterinarians are very professional, and access to care is smooth.”

Practical Expatriate Tips

• Carry a pet first-aid kit during nature hikes.
• Inquire with the local municipality about permitted dog areas.
• Join expatriate groups with pets to share tips and local recommendations.

Properly preparing your pet’s arrival in Poland facilitates its adaptation and ensures its well-being, while respecting legislation and local specifics.

Pet Services and Cultural Specifics in Poland

In Poland, pet services are varied and well-developed, reflecting the growing popularity of pets in the country.

Main Available Pet Services:

• Veterinary Clinics: Present in all major cities and many rural areas, with renowned establishments such as the Warsaw Faculty of Veterinary Medicine offering advanced care for small and large animal species.
• Animal Shelters: Several public and private shelters welcome abandoned or lost animals, offering adoption, care, and awareness programs.
• Boarding and Training Services: Pet boarding facilities, daycares, and certified dog trainers are available to assist owners with animal education and behavior.
• Specialty Stores: Pet stores offer a wide range of food, accessories, hygiene products, and toys for pets, with well-established national and international chains.

Summary Table of Pet Services

Service	Description	Examples/Features
Veterinary Clinics	Medical care, emergencies, surgery, vaccines	Warsaw Veterinary Faculty
Animal Shelters	Adoption, care, awareness	Municipal shelters, associations
Boarding and Training	Boarding, education, animal behavior	Certified trainers, daycares
Specialty Stores	Food, accessories, hygiene	Pet stores, online shops

Pet Popularity

• Dogs and cats are the most common pets.
• The trend of adopting small animals (rabbits, rodents, birds) is growing.
• Pets are considered family members, and their well-being is a priority for many Poles.

Regulations Regarding Import and Ownership of Exotic Animals

• Import of exotic animals is strictly regulated. Veterinary certificates must be obtained, European health rules respected, and sometimes special authorization is required.
• Certain species are prohibited for private ownership for safety or biodiversity protection reasons.
• The Veterinary Services Directorate oversees imports and compliance with health standards.

Cultural Specifics Related to Pets

• Domestic animals hold an important place in social life, with traditions such as animal blessings during certain religious holidays.
• Festivals and events dedicated to animals, like “Animals’ & Veterinary Days,” bring together owners, professionals, and enthusiasts for activities, contests, and new product presentations.
• Poles place great importance on animal education and respect, with particular attention to responsible adoption.

Practical Tips for Expatriates

• Before bringing an animal to Poland, verify compliance with required vaccines and certificates.
• Find a local veterinarian upon arrival to ensure the animal’s health follow-up.
• Dogs are generally welcome in many public spaces, urban parks, and some restaurants or cafes.
• Respect cleanliness rules (waste pickup) and keep animals on a leash in public places.
• Integration of the animal into the new living environment is facilitated by numerous green spaces and suitable infrastructure.

Recommendations for Welcoming Pets in Public Spaces

• Prefer parks equipped with dedicated dog areas (dog parks, “psie parki”).
• Inquire about municipal regulations regarding animals in public transport or recreational areas.
• Participate in local events to meet other owners and integrate into the community.

In summary, Poland offers a welcoming and structured environment for pets, with a complete range of services, clear regulations, and a strong cultural and social dimension around animal welfare.