Planning a move to Portugal with pets? You’re in luck! Portugal’s sunny climate, beautiful landscapes, and pet-friendly culture make it a perfect destination for pet owners.
Moving to Portugal with a dog, cat, or ferret isn’t complicated. You must follow some strict rules set by the Portuguese authorities and the EU. When you meet their import rules, the country welcomes pets from European Union countries and outside the EU.
Madeira Island could be your new home, and you’ll find Portugal a pet-friendly country. The locals have a warm and welcoming attitude toward pets and their owners. Your pet needs specific things before the move. These include a microchip for identification, a valid rabies vaccination, and an EU Pet Passport or a third-country veterinary certificate.
This piece will show you everything about moving your furry family to Portugal. We’ll cover travel options, entry requirements, local pet laws, and ways to find pet-friendly services in your new Portuguese home.
Is Portugal Pet-Friendly?
Portugal welcomes pets with open arms, which makes moving there with your furry friends easier than you might think. The Portuguese love their animals – more than half the households have pets.
Pet culture in cities like Funchal, Porto Santo, and Lisbon
Each Portuguese region has its unique pet-friendly characteristics. Lisbon and Porto have bustling pet service sectors with many more grooming centres, boarding facilities, and pet-friendly homes. These cities also feature plenty of green spaces where dogs can run free.
Madeira Island’s Funchal shines as a pet-friendly destination with several accommodations that welcome pets. The city’s coastal areas are perfect for pet owners. Dogs can enjoy walks along the Cable Car promenade – remember to clean up after them.
Porto Santo might be smaller, but it stays true to Portugal’s pet-loving nature. Several places here happily welcome your four-legged companions.
Common pet types allowed in Portugal
Portugal lets you keep various companion animals. Dogs, cats, and ferrets face the least restrictions and are the most popular choices. Small mammals, birds, rabbits, rodents, reptiles, amphibians, and fish are also allowed.
Notwithstanding that, some rules do apply. Exotic animals need special permits, and CITES regulations strictly control endangered species. Commercial flights only allow dogs, cats, and ferrets to enter Portugal.
The country restricts certain dog breeds that it calls dangerous. These include Fila Brasileiro, Dogo Argentino, Pit Bull Terrier, Rottweiler, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, and Tosa Inu.
Public spaces and pet access rules
Portugal takes an integrated approach to pets in public spaces. Dogs can explore nature in public parks and beaches across the country. Some basic rules apply:
- Dogs need leashes in public areas except in off-leash zones
- Owners must clean up after their pets
- Summer months might restrict beach access for dogs, but you can find a pet-friendly alternative.s
- Indoor dining usually excludes pets, but outdoor terraces welcome them
Madeira’s Santa Catarina Park in Funchal gives dog owners a perfect spot to walk their pets. The park has shade, benches, and beautiful ocean views. The Lido Promenade lets leashed pets enjoy stunning coastal walks.
Public transport comes with its own rules. Most trains and buses let pets ride, but larger dogs need muzzles. The dangerous breeds mentioned earlier can’t use public transport at all.
Portuguese law has protected animals better since 2017. Dogs are now “sentient beings” rather than “objects,” which gives them critical legal protections. Anyone who mistreats or abandons pets faces heavy fines or jail time.
Mild weather and outdoor spaces make it a great place for pets. Dogs especially love the year-round access to hiking trails and coastal walks.
Entry Requirements for Pets
Moving your pet to Portugal needs proper planning and compliance with entry rules. You should understand these requirements to smooth your pet’s transition to Madeira or other Portuguese destinations.
Microchip and rabies vaccination rules
Before entering Portugal, your pet must have an ISO-compliant device (ISO 11784/11785). The microchip implantation must happen before the rabies vaccination. Your pet needs a second ISO-compliant microchip, or you must bring your scanner if it has a non-ISO-compliant microchip.
Your pet must be at least 12 weeks old for rabies vaccination. The waiting period after vaccination is 21 days before your pet can enter Portugal. The first rabies shot after microchipping stays valid for one year only, even with a three-year vaccine. Your pet’s booster shots can last 1-3 years if given while the previous vaccination remains valid.
EU Pet Passport vs. Non-EU Health Certificate
Pets moving from within the EU need an EU Pet Passport that shows identification details, microchip information, and vaccination records. This document remains valid throughout your pet’s life as long as vaccinations stay current.
Pets from non-EU countries, including the United States, need an EU Health Certificate instead. This certificate must:
- Come from a government-accredited veterinarian
- Be issued within 10 days of arrival in Portugal
- Have endorsement from the appropriate government authority (e.g., USDA for U.S. residents)
The certificate allows entry into Portugal for 10 days from the issue in the U.S. and permits EU travel for up to 4 months or until the rabies vaccine expires.
Rabies titre test for high-risk countries
Pets from high-risk rabies countries must undergo a rabies antibody titre test. The blood test requirements include:
- Testing at least 30 days after rabies vaccination
- Processing by an EU-approved laboratory
- Antibody level showing at least 0.5 IU/ml
Pets from these countries must wait three months from blood collection before entering Portugal. This waiting period doesn’t apply to tests performed in the EU before leaving the Union.
Breed restrictions and banned dog types
Some dog breeds face entry restrictions in Portugal due to their classification as potentially dangerous. These breeds include:
- Pit Bull Terrier
- American Staffordshire Terrier
- Staffordshire Bull Terrier
- Rottweiler
- Brazilian Mastiff (Fila Brasileiro)
- Argentine Mastiff (Dogo Argentino)
- Tosa Inu
Bringing these breeds to Madeira might need special authorisation and a Statement of Responsibility. These dogs must undergo neuterisation or be neutered within two weeks after entering Portugal for permanent relocation.
Pet age and number limits
Portugal doesn’t allow puppies, kittens, or ferrets younger than 15 weeks old. This age limit exists because pets need the rabies vaccination at 12 weeks and must wait 21 days after vaccination before travel.
You can travel with up to five pets without a commercial status. Travelling with more than five animals requires proof of participation in a competition, exhibition, or sporting event, and the pets must be over six months old.
The Portuguese authorities need notification at least 48 hours before your arrival. Submit a written notice through the form on the official DGAV website.
How to Travel to Portugal with Pets
Getting your pets safely to Portugal means picking the right way to travel. Here are the best options for moving to Madeira Island or mainland Portugal.
Flying with pets: cabin vs cargo
Air travel remains the most popular choice for international pet relocation. Your pets can travel either in the cabin or the cargo hold when flying:
- Cabin travel: Many airlines allow small pets up to 8kg (including carrier) in the cabin. Your pet’s carrier must fit under the seat (45x30x23cm). You’ll have the comfort of keeping your pet close during the flight.
- Cargo hold: The temperature-controlled cargo hold handles larger animals. TAP Air Portugal’s weight limit increased to 32kg for flights to/from the U.S., Hungary, France, and the Netherlands, and up to 45 kilograms for other destinations (including U.S. carriers).
TAP, Portugal’s national airline, welcomes cats and dogs on regular flights. Ryanair only allows service dogs. Expats heading to Madeira can book pet transportation services on TAP’s direct flights to Funchal.
Driving from EU countries with pets
Road transport works great for people moving from nearby European countries. You can control your pet’s environment better while driving, which helps reduce stress for travel-sensitive animals. Regular breaks make the trip more comfortable for your pets.
Your pet must still meet all EU entry requirements, even when driving. These include microchipping, vaccination, and valid documentation.
Sea and ferry options
Sea travel offers a good alternative if you don’t want to fly with your pets. Many European ferry lines welcome both pets and their owners. Companies like Brittany Ferries let pets travel in vehicles and provide kennels and pet-friendly cabins on specific routes.
Larger animals or pets with health issues make flying difficult, but they can benefit from this option. Some transatlantic passenger ships even offer pet kenneling services where you can check on your pet daily.
Choosing a pet relocation service
Professional pet relocation services help many expats handle complex moving logistics. These experts:
- Handle all administrative work based on current health regulations
- Make sure everything meets airline and crate requirements
- Set up door-to-door transport
- Help prepare all needed documents
Madeira-bound expats can get help from local services to transport pets from Lisbon to Funchal. Pet relocation specialists give you peace of mind with dedicated consultants who track your pet’s progress and keep you updated.
Book your pet’s travel well ahead of time. Space fills up quickly, especially on flights and ferries.
Living in Portugal with Pets
Your pet’s move to Portugal is just the beginning. Now you must handle paperwork and practical matters to help your furry friend feel at home.
Registering your pet locally
Portugal requires you to register your dog, cat, or ferret in the Sistema de Informação de Animais de Companhia (SIAC), the national pet database. The registration fee is €2.50 per pet, and you must do this if your pet stays in Portugal longer than 120 days. The fines for having pets without registration can range from €50 to €3,740.
Dogs need an extra registration at your local Junta de Freguesia (parish council). You’ll need these items:
- Proof of microchipping
- Current vaccination records
- Annual registration fee (usually €5-€20)
Ensure you update your pet’s registration details when you move or transfer ownership.
Pet-friendly housing tips
Read your rental agreement’s pet policies carefully. Some landlords welcome pets but might restrict specific sizes or breeds. Apartment living with dogs needs extra thought because thin walls might let barking noise travel to neighbours.
Small pets in carriers can ride on public transport, but larger dogs might need muzzles.
Pet stores and grooming services in Madeira
Madeira offers several options for pet supplies:
- Major supermarkets like Continente and Pingo Doce stock basic pet items
- Speciality pet stores carry premium foods, toys, and accessories
- Veterinary clinics sell prescription diets and medications
Portugal’s pet supply system works differently from other countries. You’ll need to visit different stores to get everything your pet needs. Deworming medication, needed every six weeks, comes from pharmacies, not pet stores.
Many vet clinics double as grooming centres, and insurance holders often get special rates on grooming services.
Understanding Local Pet Laws
Portugal has specific pet regulations to check public safety and animal welfare. Expats in Madeira should know these laws to avoid any penalties.
Leash and muzzle rules in public
Dogs must wear a collar showing their owner’s contact details on Portuguese streets. Regular dog owners have two choices: keep their pets on a leash or use a muzzle when letting them off-leash. Some areas don’t need these rules, as municipalities can create special off-leash zones. Madeira doesn’t have many off-leash areas yet, so plan your walks carefully.
Liability insurance for restricted breeds
Portugal lists seven dog breeds as potentially dangerous: Pit Bull Terrier, Rottweiler, Staffordshire Terrier, Fila Brasileiro, Dogo Argentino, American Staffordshire Terrier, and Tosa Inu. These breeds’ owners need liability insurance with at least €50,000 coverage. The rules don’t stop there. Owners must sign up with their local junta de freguesia, finish a behaviour assessment, keep vaccinations current, and use both leash and muzzle in public.
CITES and exotic pet regulations
CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species) controls exotic pet ownership in Portugal. This worldwide agreement helps protect more than 40,900 animal and plant species from extinction. Anyone wanting to bring CITES-protected species needs special permits through this monitoring system.
Municipal pet taxes and SIAC registration
The SIAC database needs all dogs, cats, and ferrets registered at €2.50 per pet. You have 120 days after arrival to complete this registration. Missing this requirement can lead to fines between €50 €3,740 if you have pets. Some municipalities also charge yearly dog taxes, usually less than €10. Pet owners can claim tax deductions up to €250 annually for veterinary expenses in Portugal.
Conclusion
Moving to Portugal with pets needs proper planning and preparation. This piece covers travel, from entry requirements to finding local services. Portugal is, undoubtedly, one of Europe’s most welcoming destinations for pet owners. Madeira Island appeals especially when you have its mild climate and abundant outdoor spaces.
Your pet’s experience in Portugal starts way before the travel date. Note that microchipping, rabies vaccination, and proper documentation are must-have requirements. How you transport your pet – by air, car from another EU country, or sea travel – significantly affects your pet’s comfort during relocation.
After settling in Madeira, registering your pet with SIAC and your local Junta de Freguesia becomes mandatory. This administrative step will give your pet legal status in your new home. Pet owners will love the quality veterinary care available in Portugal at lower prices than in many Western countries.
Finding a home that welcomes pets can be tricky, but many properties in Madeira accept them. You should confirm pet policies before signing any rental agreement. Understanding local leash laws and insurance requirements helps avoid potential risks, particularly with breeds classified as potentially dangerous.
Madeira is a chance for expats to give their pets a thriving environment. The island’s walking trails, coastal promenades, and outdoor cafés let you enjoy Portugal’s pleasant climate with your four-legged family. Santa Catarina Park and the Lido Promenade in Funchal make perfect spots to walk your dog daily.
Taking care of everything before arrival makes moving to your new life in Portugal smoother. The process might initially feel overwhelming, but seeing your pet happy in one of Europe’s most pet-friendly countries makes it worthwhile. Soon, you and your pet will embrace the relaxed Portuguese lifestyle that draws many expats to beautiful Madeira Island.
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