VerbatimParliament, as it happens

Pet Travel Scheme

Asked by James McMurdockIndependentDepartment for Environment, Food and Rural AffairsTabled Answered 4 September 2026UIN 25665

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what progress has been made in discussions with the EU on simplifying pet travel arrangements as part of the EU-UK Sanitary and Phytosanitary Agreement.

Answered by Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs

Securing less burdensome arrangements for non-commercial pet travel remains a UK Government priority. As announced at the UK-EU Leaders' Summit on 19 May 2025, the UK and EU have agreed to work towards a common Sanitary and Phytosanitary Area, which will mean taking pets on holiday into the EU will be easier and cheaper.

Instead of getting an Animal Health Certificate each time they travel, pet owners will be able to get a multiuse pet passport valid for travel to the EU.

Discussions on the SPS agreement are progressing, and Defra has committed, with the EU, to conclude negotiations before the next UK-EU Summit. Whilst negotiations are ongoing, we are unable to provide further details on delivery timelines for multiuse pet passports.

Verbatim has judged this answer against the question that was actually asked — answered, partly answered, or evaded. Sign in to see the verdict →

Open this question in Verbatim →

Every written question, searchable

155,000 questions tabled since the election, with the answer each department gave — and the ones still unanswered, with the clock running. Free to search.

Search written questions →Read on Verbatim