Moving to Hungary with a Pet
Summary: Planning to move to Hungary with your pet? Get all the vital information on required vaccinations, pet travel guidelines, and prohibited items in Hungary. Make your relocation process easier with this guide.
Moving to Hungary with a pet involves some careful planning, but with the right preparations, it can be a smooth process. Hungary is generally pet-friendly, but there are specific vaccination and paperwork requirements that need to be met. Unlike some countries, Hungary does not typically require quarantine for pets upon arrival. However, it's important to note that having a pet, especially dogs, in urban areas is less common compared to other European countries. Let's delve into the details to help you understand the process better.
Can I bring my dog to Hungary?
Yes, Hungary allows the import of dogs. However, there are specific breeds that are prohibited, which we will discuss later. As long as your dog is not on the prohibited list and meets all the health and documentation requirements, you can bring your dog to Hungary.
Can I bring my cat to Hungary?
Yes, cats are allowed into Hungary. Similar to dogs, they must meet the health and documentation requirements set by the Hungarian authorities. There are no specific breed restrictions for cats.
Pets that are Prohibited from Coming into Hungary
Hungary has restrictions on certain dog breeds deemed dangerous. These include, but are not limited to, the pit bull terrier, Boerboel, and Staffordshire bull terrier. It's crucial to check the latest regulations to ensure your pet is not on the prohibited list. Other pets like birds, small mammals, and reptiles may have specific rules, so it's essential to verify their eligibility with the relevant authorities.
How do I bring my pet to Hungary?
To bring your pet to Hungary, you'll need to obtain a European Union Pet Passport if your pet is from an EU country, or an official veterinary certificate if your pet is from a non-EU country. Your pet must be microchipped and vaccinated against rabies at least 21 days before travel. For dogs, a tapeworm treatment is also required 1-5 days before entering Hungary. Pets under three months old may have different vaccination requirements. It's essential to consult with your veterinarian to ensure all necessary treatments and documents are in order. Additionally, you should notify the Hungarian authorities of your pet's arrival at least 24 hours in advance.
Upon Arriving in Hungary
Once you've safely arrived in Hungary with your pet, there are a few things to consider. If you're staying for more than 90 days, you'll need to register your pet with the local authorities and obtain a Hungarian pet passport. Finding a veterinarian is relatively straightforward, with many clinics in urban areas offering high-quality care. Hungarians generally like dogs and cats, but it's essential to respect local rules and customs. Dog parks are not as common as in some other countries, but there are designated areas where dogs can be walked. Always keep your dog on a leash in public spaces unless otherwise indicated. With proper care and attention to the rules, your pet can happily accompany you during your stay in Hungary.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
- Hungary Guide
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Hungary
- Members Talk about Healthcare & Health Insurance in Hungary
- Best Places to Live in Hungary
- Real Estate in Hungary
- Guide to Real Estate in Hungary
- Pros & Cons of Living in Hungary
- Cost of Living in Hungary
- 10 Things to Know Before Moving to Hungary
- How to Buy a Home in Hungary
- Pros and Cons of Living in Hungary
- How to Rent a Home in Hungary
- Pros and Cons of Living in Hungary 2026
- 2026 Guide to Moving to Hungary
- More Advice about Retiring in Hungary


