Moving with your pets to Denmark
Expats can rest easy knowing that pets such as dogs, cats, and other small animals can easily accompany owners to live in Denmark. Below is a guide to bringing your pets with you when you relocate to Denmark.
Requirements for bringing your pet to Denmark
The rules and requirements for bringing your pet into Denmark will differ depending on the country of origin. However, there are some rules that apply to bringing in any pet from an outside country:
- The pet must travel within five days of the owner's arrival in Denmark. Outside of this time frame, pets must be transported according to the regulations of commercial imports.
- Pets from non-EU member countries can only enter at the following authorised points of entry: Copenhagen Airport, Billund Airport, and Aalborg Airport
- All pets must have valid identification in the form of an ISO Standard 11784 microchip or a readable tattoo applied before 3 July, 2011.
- Veterinary Certificate compliant with Regulation (EU) 577/2013
- Appropriate vaccinations with the correct validity
Use the Danish Veterinary and Food Administration website to find the rules and regulations for your specific pet type and country of origin.
Prohibited animals in Denmark
Several dog breeds and mixed-breeds are prohibited in Denmark. Check the list to make sure that your dog is allowed in Denmark. Specific rules and prohibitions also apply to other animal species. For example, only certain birds may be imported, and a maximum of five birds are allowed to accompany the owner. Bird species on the CITES list require additional permits as specified by the Danish Nature Agency.
Regular pet owners are not allowed to bring carnivores aside from dogs, cats, and ferrets into Denmark. Primates and non-domestic rodent and squirrel species from the African continent are also prohibited.
Pet-friendly airlines in Denmark
Rules about transporting animals may vary between airlines. Some airlines allow pets to accompany the owner in the cabin, while others will put them in the cargo hold. Many airlines also require transport cages/pet carriers with specific dimensions.
Before booking your flights to Denmark, contact a few airlines to understand the possibility of transporting your pet and the costs thereof. Call as early in advance as possible.
If you are unable to fly with the pet yourself, it might be worth getting the help of a pet relocation service. Although it might cost more, pet relocation services will handle all of the paperwork and many even deliver your pet right to the door of the destination address.
Pet insurance in Denmark
Since Denmark is an expensive country, veterinary services and bills can add up quickly. It might be worth getting insurance for your pet while you stay in Denmark. There are animal-specific insurance options, but also options to cover pet insurance as part of insurance packages at general companies.
Here are some companies that offer pet insurance:
Tips
- Getting the paperwork and vaccines in order for your pet can take several months. Start the process as soon as possible to reduce the stress of moving your pet.
- Some airlines do not allow sedation of pets. Ask your vet for other ways to keep your pet calm while they travel.
