Bringing a cat from the USA to the Netherlands: rules 2026
Taking a cat from the USA to the Netherlands is a smooth EU route. The USA is EU-listed so no titer test is needed, and cats have the extra advantage of not requiring a tapeworm treatment.
Destination requirements
- ISO microchip — on or before the rabies vaccination day.
- Rabies vaccination — valid from day 21 after the primary dose.
- Titer test (only from “unlisted”/high-risk) — blood ≥30 days after vaccination, ≥0.5 IU/ml, then wait ≥90 days. (Russia and Belarus are high-risk from 16 Sep 2024.)
- Certificate — EU Animal Health Certificate (Annex III, Reg. (EU) 2026/705), 10 days. From the EU — EU pet passport.
- Tapeworm (echinococcus) — only if transiting/entering IE/FI/MT/NO/UK; not required for the Netherlands itself.
- Quarantine — none if requirements are met.
- Breeds — no national ban (verify).
- Commercial import only via the Schiphol BCP.
Official sources
- NVWA — Travelling from third countries with your dog or cat ↗
- European Commission — Bringing a pet from a non-EU country ↗
Get ready for the trip
Travel essentials — handpicked for international pet moves.
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FAQ
Do I need a titer test to bring a cat from the USA to the Netherlands?
No. The USA is EU-listed — no titer test required for cats or dogs.
Do cats need a tapeworm treatment for the Netherlands?
No. Tapeworm treatment is only required for dogs entering Finland, Ireland, Malta or Norway — not the Netherlands, and not cats.
How long before travel should I prepare?
About 3–4 weeks: 21-day rabies vaccine wait, then get the EU AHC endorsed by USDA APHIS close to departure (valid 10 days to entry).
Can my cat fly in cabin to the Netherlands?
Yes, most airlines allow cats in the cabin on transatlantic routes within their weight and carrier limits.