The rules for crossing the border with pets in 2026 remain quite strict and require extensive preparation.
Cat / illustrative photo / © Unsplash
Taking a pet abroad in 2026 is a rather lengthy process that requires owners to be thoroughly prepared. A Ukrainian woman named Bohdana shared her experience of evacuating her cat and explained the considerable expenses, numerous documents, and months of waiting that one should be ready for in advance.
The young woman shared her story in a video on the TikTok platform.
How to legally take a cat abroad
While describing the step-by-step instructions, the woman noted that at the border, customs officers already recognize her cat, who enjoys “watching television,” and let them through without further questions.
For those just planning such a journey, Bohdana recommends first of all to be patient, to definitely microchip the pet, and to vaccinate it against rabies.
Ukrainian woman and her cat / © from social media
“A microchip doesn’t cost much and can be done at any veterinary clinic. However, the most difficult document you’ll need is the rabies antibody titer test. This involves taking blood from the cat or dog. Then you get a paper stating it’s not rabid, but you can only travel with all this not earlier than three months later, because there’s a 90-day quarantine period. Yes, it’s easier to take a child abroad than a cat,” the Ukrainian woman mentioned.
In particular, she emphasized the necessity of having the animal’s veterinary passport, which can be obtained from a vet clinic.
What documents must be carried
According to the young woman, after the quarantine period (three months) ends, you must visit a state veterinary clinic where you will receive certificate F1, confirming that your pet is healthy. However, specialists at the clinic may ask to see a relevant document proving that your furry friend has been treated for fleas.
Nevertheless, the validity period of this document is limited to only three days. Within this time, the owner must contact the nearest customs point, where the document will be exchanged for an international certificate, which remains valid for ten days.
“And if the animal is traveling not with its owner, a notarized permission is required,” Bohdana emphasized.
Documents required for transporting a cat across the border / © from social media
Border crossing rules for Ukrainians – latest news
From June 1st, the basic rules for men liable for military service to cross the border remain unchanged and will be in effect within the current mobilization legislation. Simultaneously, in June, the State Border Guard Service will launch a new online service where it will be possible to check temporary travel restrictions.
At the same time, there are no longer any border crossing restrictions for women in Ukraine – this applies to all positions in state bodies, local self-government, or enterprises without exception.
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