Pet Travel: Moving Dogs and Cats Between the UK, EU and Sri Lanka

Planning your pet's journey from the UK to Sri Lanka requires careful preparation to meet all local import regulations.

• Microchip: An ISO 11784/11785 compliant 15-digit microchip is mandatory and must be implanted before any vaccinations.
• Rabies: A current rabies vaccination is required, with records showing the vaccination is up to date and includes the microchip number.
• Import permit: You must obtain an import permit from the Department of Animal Production and Health at least two weeks before travel.
• Health certificate: An international veterinary health certificate issued by the government veterinary authority within 10 days of travel is required.
• Vaccinations: Dogs need specific vaccinations for distemper, hepatitis, leptospirosis, parvovirus, and kennel cough; cats need feline infectious enteritis and respiratory viral vaccines.
• Quarantine: A 30-day quarantine period is required upon arrival, which may be conducted at a government facility or as a home quarantine.
• Arrival: Pets must arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport for inspection.
• Guidance: Rules change frequently, so confirm all requirements with your vet and the official authorities on both sides before booking.

Bringing your dog or cat from Sri Lanka to Great Britain involves strict adherence to UK government pet travel standards.

• Microchip: Your pet must be fitted with an ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip before receiving a rabies vaccination.
• Rabies: A valid rabies vaccination is required, administered after the microchip has been successfully implanted.
• Blood test: As Sri Lanka is not a listed country, a rabies blood test is required at least 30 days after vaccination.
• Waiting period: You must wait three months after the date the blood sample was taken before your pet can enter Great Britain.
• Documentation: Your pet must carry an official veterinary health certificate issued by the relevant authority in Sri Lanka.
• Tapeworm: Dogs must be treated for tapeworm by a vet 24 to 120 hours before their scheduled arrival in Great Britain.
• Quarantine: A compliant pet that meets all these health and documentation requirements will not be subject to quarantine upon arrival.
• Guidance: Regulations are subject to change, so verify all current procedures with your vet and the official UK government pet travel guidance.

Travelling from the EU to Sri Lanka requires following the specific export protocols mandated by Sri Lankan veterinary authorities.

• Import permit: You must secure an import permit from the Department of Animal Production and Health at least two weeks before your departure.
• Microchip: Ensure your pet has an ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip implanted prior to any required vaccinations or health checks.
• Rabies: A valid, up-to-date rabies vaccination is essential and must be recorded alongside the pet's unique microchip number.
• Health certificate: You must obtain an official export health certificate from the government veterinary authority in your EU country of residence.
• Additional tests: Be aware that blood tests for leishmaniasis and heartworm may be required for dogs depending on the specific origin.
• Carrier rules: Check with your chosen transport carrier for any additional requirements regarding travel crates or specific airline policies.
• Arrival: All pets must arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport where they will undergo a mandatory 30-day quarantine period.
• Guidance: Always confirm the latest entry requirements with your vet and the official authorities on both sides before you travel.