Pet Movement Legislation

Country of Departure

Pet Transport from the USA to Serbia
– Rules and Documents

Entry Requirements for Cats and Dogs

  • The pet must be at least 12 weeks old at the time of rabies vaccination.
  • Microchip implantation before rabies vaccination (ISO 11784/11785 standard).
  • Rabies vaccination must be administered at least 21 days before travel.
  • Veterinary certificate issued in English by a licensed veterinarian.
  • Clinical health examination conducted within 48 hours before departure.

Microchip

The microchip must be ISO-compliant (ISO 11784/11785) and must be implanted before the rabies vaccination. It ensures traceability and health record linkage.


Rabies Vaccination

  • Mandatory for both dogs and cats entering Serbia.
  • The first rabies vaccine must be administered no earlier than at 12 weeks of age.
  • At least 21 days must pass after the vaccination before travel.
  • The vaccine must be valid on the day of travel.

Blood Titer Test

Not required. Serbia follows the EU model for pet importation and does not require the rabies titer test from pets entering from the USA.

Minimum Age, Parasite Treatment and Transport Conditions

Minimum Age for Entry

Pets must be at least 12 weeks old at the time of rabies vaccination. Entry is allowed only after 21 days have passed since the first rabies shot, meaning the minimum age for entry is 15 weeks.


Parasite Treatment (Deworming)

For dogs: Deworming treatment is mandatory before entering Serbia. It must target Echinococcus multilocularis and be administered by a veterinarian using praziquantel or an equivalent substance.

  • The treatment must be performed not more than 120 hours and not less than 24 hours before arrival.
  • The details (date, time, product name, veterinarian’s stamp and signature) must be recorded in the veterinary certificate.

For cats: Deworming is not mandatory, but it is recommended for overall health and to prevent potential delays at border checks.


Carrier and Transport Conditions

  • Pets must be transported in a secure and comfortable carrier that complies with airline standards.
  • The carrier should allow the pet to stand, turn around, and lie down easily.
  • Airlines may apply additional rules depending on the pet’s size or route. Contact your airline in advance.

Border Control and Import Risks

Document Check and Entry Procedure

Upon arrival in Serbia, pets are subject to veterinary inspection. The border control officer will check the pet’s veterinary certificate and compliance with all import requirements.

  • Rabies vaccination date and validity.
  • Microchip number and date of implantation.
  • Deworming treatment details for dogs (if applicable).
  • Clinical health confirmation.

Potential Consequences of Non-Compliance

Failure to meet Serbia’s entry requirements may result in:

  • Refusal of entry for your pet.
  • Temporary quarantine at the owner's expense.
  • Request for additional veterinary treatments or certifications.
  • Delays and financial costs related to corrective actions.