How to Bring Your Pets to Norway
Bringing your pets to Norway requires careful planning and adherence to strict regulations designed to protect both animal health and public safety. Norway has stringent rules regarding the importation of animals, particularly to prevent the spread of diseases like rabies. Whether you’re relocating permanently or planning a temporary visit, this guide will walk you through the steps to ensure a smooth and stress-free process for bringing your furry friends to Norway.
1. Understand Norway’s Pet Import Regulations
Norway is not part of the European Union (EU), but it follows many of the EU’s pet travel regulations under the Pet Passport Scheme . However, there are additional requirements specific to Norway due to its rabies-free status. Key points include:
- Allowed Pets: Dogs, cats, and ferrets are the most commonly imported pets. Other animals may require special permits.
- Rabies-Free Status: Norway does not allow pets from countries with a high risk of rabies unless they undergo quarantine.
- Microchipping: All pets must be microchipped before vaccination and travel.
2. Microchip Your Pet
The first step in preparing your pet for travel to Norway is ensuring they have a microchip that meets ISO standards (15 digits). This microchip serves as your pet’s identification and must be implanted before their rabies vaccination.
- If your pet already has a microchip, confirm that it complies with ISO standards. Non-compliant chips may require an additional reader upon arrival.
3. Rabies Vaccination
A valid rabies vaccination is mandatory for all pets entering Norway. The vaccine must meet the following criteria:
- Administered after the microchip is implanted.
- Given at least 21 days before travel , but not more than the vaccine’s validity period (usually 1-3 years, depending on the vaccine type).
- Documented in the pet’s official health certificate or passport.
Pets traveling from countries outside the EU/EFTA must also undergo a rabies antibody blood test (titer test) to confirm immunity. This test must be conducted by an approved laboratory at least 30 days after vaccination and at least 3 months before travel .
4. Obtain a Veterinary Health Certificate
Your pet will need an official health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian. The certificate must confirm:
- The microchip details.
- Proof of rabies vaccination (and titer test, if required).
- That the pet is healthy and free from infectious diseases.
For pets traveling from within the EU/EFTA, the certificate can be replaced by an EU Pet Passport . For pets from non-EU countries, the certificate must comply with Norwegian import regulations.
5. Check Country-Specific Requirements
Norway classifies countries into three categories based on rabies risk: Category 1 (low risk), Category 2 (medium risk), and Category 3 (high risk) . The requirements vary depending on the country you’re traveling from:
From Category 1 Countries (e.g., EU/EFTA nations)
- Pets can enter Norway without quarantine if they meet the microchip, vaccination, and health certificate requirements.
From Category 2 Countries (e.g., UK, USA, Canada)
- Pets must undergo a rabies titer test and wait at least 3 months from the date of the blood sample before traveling.
- No quarantine is required if all conditions are met.
From Category 3 Countries (e.g., India, Thailand, South Africa)
- Pets must undergo a rabies titer test and wait at least 3 months from the date of the blood sample.
- Upon arrival, pets are subject to mandatory quarantine for up to 4 weeks at an approved facility.
6. Book an Approved Airline and Travel Route
When transporting your pet to Norway, choose an airline that complies with International Air Transport Association (IATA) regulations for animal transport. Ensure the following:
- Your pet travels in an IATA-approved travel crate that is large enough for them to stand, sit, and turn around comfortably.
- Direct flights are preferable to minimize stress. Oslo Airport (OSL) is the main entry point for pets.
7. Prepare for Arrival in Norway
Upon arrival, your pet will undergo inspection by Norwegian authorities to verify compliance with import regulations. Be prepared to present:
- The pet’s microchip details.
- Rabies vaccination records.
- Health certificate or EU Pet Passport.
- Titer test results (if applicable).
If any documentation is incomplete or incorrect, your pet may be denied entry or placed in quarantine.
8. Post-Arrival Considerations
Once your pet is safely in Norway, there are a few additional steps to ensure their well-being:
Register Your Pet
- Register your pet with a local veterinarian and update their microchip information if needed.
Healthcare
- Schedule a check-up with a Norwegian vet to address any travel-related stress or health concerns.
- Familiarize yourself with local veterinary services and emergency clinics.
Pet Insurance
- While not mandatory, pet insurance is highly recommended to cover unexpected medical expenses.
Adaptation Period
- Allow your pet time to adjust to their new environment. Provide familiar items like toys, bedding, and food to ease the transition.
9. Costs Involved
Bringing your pet to Norway can be expensive, especially if quarantine or additional tests are required. Estimated costs include:
- Microchipping: €20–€50
- Rabies vaccination: €50–€100
- Rabies titer test: €100–€200
- Health certificate: €50–€150
- Airline fees: €100–€500+ (depending on the airline and pet size)
- Quarantine (if required): €1,000–€2,000+ for 4 weeks
10. Additional Tips
- Plan Ahead: Start the process at least 6–8 months before your planned move to account for vaccinations, testing, and waiting periods.
- Consult Authorities: Contact the Norwegian Food Safety Authority (Mattilsynet) for the latest regulations and guidance.
- Travel Comfortably: Ensure your pet’s travel crate is secure and comfortable, and avoid sedatives unless prescribed by a vet.
