Germany allows Ukrainians to come with pets. However, the simplified rules for entry with animals have recently been changed. Find out about the updated rules for entering Germany with furry friends

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From now on, Ukrainians who plan to enter Germany with their pets are subject to standardized rules for entry with pets. In particular, dogs, cats, and ferrets must be microchipped, have a passport, rabies vaccination documents, and confirmation of the presence of antibodies. 

Find out how to obtain a work permit in Germany in 2023 for Ukrainians here.

Paragraph 24 for refugees: eligibility for a residence permit for asylum seekers in Germany - details here.

Read here how to find a job for English-speaking foreigners in Germany.

New rules for importing pets to Germany: details

The conditions of transportation will meet the general criteria of the European Union legislation, taking into account the specifics defined by Regulation (EU) No. 576/2013, including

• the animal must be identified with a microchip (transponder) or a clear-to-read tattoo applied before July 03, 2011; 

• the animal must have a valid rabies vaccination (the date of vaccination must not precede the date of application of the transponder or tattoo or the date of reading the transponder or tattoo indicated in the relevant section of the identification document; revaccination should be considered as primary vaccination if it was not carried out during the validity period of the previous vaccination) 

• a current serological test to determine the titer of rabies antibodies (the level of neutralizing antibodies to rabies virus in the blood serum equal to or greater than 0.5 IU/ml) must be performed. 

Important! The titers must be taken no earlier than one month after vaccination and no later than three months before entry.

• the animal must have an approved Animal Health Certificate form for non-commercial transportation to EU Member States and an import declaration.

Please note that if you have puppies, you are allowed to transport them across the border only after they reach the age of seven months.

How to get a residence permit in Germany - step-by-step instructions.

The Jobcenter for refugees in Germany: what help Ukrainians can get - read here.

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Registration of animals in Germany

Please note! If you have a dog, you must register it in Germany. Registration is carried out at the so-called "Steuer- und Stadtkassenamt" in the city in which you are registered. 

Registration is free of charge. However, you must pay the so-called dog tax (Hundesteuer) regularly. The amount of tax varies from city to city. As a rule, it is 30-190 euros per year.

After successful registration, you will receive an individual dog tag with a unique number. This dog tag should always be carried with you whenever you go for a walk with your pet.

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Our recommendation for a safe and comfortable trip: 

Visit Ukraine Insurance - insurance for a safe stay abroad without unnecessary expenses;

Green Card - compulsory car insurance for traveling abroad;

Visit Ukraine Tickets - book tickets for buses, trains, and airplanes to/from Ukraine and between cities around the world;

Private Lawyer service - professional legal support on visa and migration issues;

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