Is a Tortoise Legal in France? CITES Rules 2026
Tortoises are legal in France but strictly regulated under CITES Appendix II and French protected species law. France enforces these rules seriously due to its native tortoise populations.
Hermann's tortoise (Testudo hermanni) is listed under CITES Appendix II โ one of the most strictly controlled pet species in Europe. All movement across borders requires CITES documentation. In the EU, captive-bred tortoises registered under the system can move with an Article 10 Certificate.
- โ ๏ธ CITES status: Appendix II (all Testudo species)
- โ ๏ธ Article 10 Certificate: Required for commercial use and cross-border movement within EU
- โ ๏ธ Export/import permits: Required for non-EU destinations
- โ Australia: No exotic reptiles permitted
France's Rules for Tortoises
France: Tortoise (Hermann's) Legal Status
โ ๏ธ Legal with strict CITES and French rules.
- Article 10 Certificate โ required for Hermann's tortoise in France (CITES II).
- French certification (CERFA) โ declaration of captive-held protected species with DREAL.
- Microchip or ring marking โ required for registration.
- Vet health certificate for movement.
France has native Hermann's tortoise populations (in Var and Alpes-Maritimes) and enforces CITES rules strictly to prevent laundering of wild-caught animals.
Official sources
- DREAL โ espรจces protรฉgรฉes et CITES โ
- EU CITES Management Authority โ
- CITES Species Database โ
- โ ISO 11784/11785 microchipping before rabies vaccine timeline
- โ Rabies titer blood test (RNATT) & mandatory 90-day waiting period
- โ Airport transit zone regulations, international vet certificates & EU pet passport
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FAQ
Can I keep a tortoise in France?
Yes, but you need an Article 10 Certificate and must declare the animal with your regional DREAL via CERFA form.
What is the CERFA declaration for tortoises in France?
A legal declaration of captive-held protected species required by French authorities. Submit to DREAL of your region.
Are there native tortoises in France?
Yes โ France has native Hermann's tortoise and Mediterranean tortoise populations in the south. This is why France enforces CITES rules so strictly.