Applying for a European pet passport
You can get a European pet passport from your vet. This passport is mandatory for all dogs in the Netherlands. You also need a European pet passport in order to travel to another country with your dog, cat or ferret.
Last updated on 5 January 2026
A passport for dogs, cats and ferrets
The European pet passport is only for dogs, cats and ferrets. You do not need it for other pet species, such as rodents, birds or fish.
European pet passport is mandatory for dogs
If you own a dog that was born on or after 1 November 2021, it must have a valid European pet passport. If you are going to buy a dog, make sure it has a valid passport. The dog must also be microchipped and registered. Read more about the rules on identification and registration of dogs.
European pet passport mandatory when travelling with a dog, cat or ferret
You must have a European pet passport in order to travel to another country with your dog, cat or ferret.
Read all about travelling with pets on the website of the EU. Or check the rules for bringing pets into the Netherlands on the website of the Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA).
Obtain a pet passport from a vet
You can obtain a European pet passport from a vet. The passport is valid for life.
Laws and regulations
Regulation (EU) No 576/2013 on the non-commercial movement of pet animals
Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 577/2013
Besluit houders van dieren (in Dutch)
Regeling houders van dieren (in Dutch)