Pet Import to Switzerland and Norway
– Important Legal and Practical Issues

Concerns About Import Procedures in Switzerland and Norway

We are currently unable to provide precise guidance on pet import regulations for Switzerland and Norway. In both cases, the rules applied by local authorities contradict international standards for animal movement. Internal guidelines issued by Mattilsynet (Norway) and Swiss veterinary services include restrictions that are not backed by official law and remain incompatible with internationally recognized veterinary agreements.

Switzerland – Requirements That Breach International Norms

The current Swiss rules for importing cats and dogs include provisions that do not align with globally accepted animal transport standards. These deviations are enforced through non-transparent practices.

Norway – Regulatory Changes That Remain Inadequate

In 2022, Norway implemented partial changes to its animal import policy. However, the updated rules still fail to comply with basic principles of international veterinary law and contain unjustified limitations not supported by legislation.

Risks for Pet Owners and Their Animals

Currently, traveling to Switzerland or Norway with pets involves significant risks due to legal uncertainty. At border checkpoints, unexpected procedures and misinterpretations of internal rules may lead to delays, stress, or even denied entry.

Our Advice to Minimize Risks

We can help you organize pet transport to Switzerland or Norway with reduced risk. However, due to the current legal inconsistencies, a smooth and predictable border crossing cannot be guaranteed.

Our Position

We actively advocate for the revision of animal import regulations in both countries. These rules must be brought into alignment with international standards and made legally transparent.

Once these issues are resolved, we will publish full and reliable information on pet import procedures to Switzerland and Norway on our website.