Pet Movement Legislation

Country of Departure

Pet Import to Russia from the UK – Requirements & Documents

Pet Import from the UK to Russia
– Requirements & Documents

General Import Requirements for Pets

Microchip

A microchip is mandatory for importing pets into Russia. It must be implanted before the rabies vaccination and comply with ISO 11784/11785 standards.


Rabies Vaccination

  • The vaccination must be administered at least 20 days before travel.
  • If this is the first rabies vaccination, it must be given after the microchip implantation.
  • The vaccination must remain valid at the time of entry.

Vaccination Certificate

  • Must be issued in the UK by a licensed veterinarian.
  • Should include:
    • Microchip details (number, implantation date).
    • Rabies vaccination details (date, batch number, expiry date).
    • A statement confirming that the pet is clinically healthy and free of infectious diseases.

Fit-to-Fly Certificate

A separate Fit-to-Fly Certificate is strongly recommended. It should include details of a deworming treatment administered 24–120 hours before entry. This helps prevent delays due to misinterpreted customs instructions during document checks.

➕ Form No. 15 – What Is It and When Is It Required?


Form No. 15 is not required for non-commercial pet importation. It is only used for commercial purposes such as sale, breeding, or transfer of ownership.


Some sources incorrectly state that this form is mandatory for all pet imports. In reality, it is only needed if the pet is being transported via cargo transport (cargo vans or air freight).


The key differences between transporting pets via cargo and via personal or courier transport are explained in our article:

How to Transport Your Pet: Cargo or Family Member?



Parasite Treatment (Deworming)

  • Mandatory for all pets.
  • Must include treatment against both internal and external parasites.
  • The veterinarian must record the treatment in the international veterinary certificate.

Important Notes

  • Each owner is allowed to bring no more than two animals.
  • All documents must be properly completed, even if checks on passenger flights are rare. This ensures you avoid issues in case of an inspection.
  • Additional vaccines (e.g., leptospirosis or distemper) are not mandatory for entry into Russia but may be recommended.

  • Some veterinarians may insist on additional vaccinations due to incorrectly interpreted government instructions. However, additional vaccines are listed as recommended but are not a mandatory requirement for bringing a pet into Russia.

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