Pet Import Regulations in Cyprus

Shipping pets to Cyprus is not complicated, but the shipper's country of origin will have a bearing on the regulations that apply.

Relocating Pets to Cyprus

Citizens of European Union member countries may bring their pets to Cyprus but need to present a Pet European Passport to be obtained from their local veterinarians. This passport will serve as the pet's ticket to entering the country without being quarantined. On top of this, the animal also has to meet specified anti-rabies, blood sampling and anti-worm/anti-tick hygiene requirements and must be shipped in accordance with IPATA regulations for movement of live animals. Upon arriving at the airport, the pet and its passport will be checked by a customs officer and its owner will be charged a certain fee per family of animals, about £30, payable in cash at the airport.

For non-EU citizen pet owners, the process can take a little longer. The animal will be required to have a rabies blood test six months before entering the country. An import permit from the Cyprus Veterinary Services has to obtained for home quarantine to be lifted once the owner shows an examination certificate proving the pet was clinically examined 72 hours before the flight to Cyprus, confirms that the pet has lived in its country of origin for the last six months and that it has been treated for all illnesses prior to shipment.

Although most pets shipped to Cyprus are dogs, there are certain breeds that are prohibited from entering the country regardless of origin. These include the Pit Bull Terrier, Japanese Tosa, DogoArgentino and  FilaBrasileiro. There may be other pet entry restrictions, and it is best to inquire from the District Veterinary Office of the intended neighborhood where the pet - owning expat plans to reside.