Bringing Your Pet to Italy from the USA

Bringing Your Pet to Italy from the USA: A Guide for Americans Retiring to Italy

For many Americans planning to retire in Italy, bringing a beloved dog or cat is non-negotiable. Pets are part of the family, and their move deserves the same care and planning as yours. Fortunately, relocating a pet from the USA to Italy follows a clear process — and with the right timing, it becomes a smooth part of your retirement transition.

What Italy Requires: Microchip, Vaccination, and the Right Paperwork

Italy follows EU-wide rules for pets entering from non-EU countries, including the United States. Before anything else, your pet needs a 15-digit ISO microchip, followed by a rabies vaccination administered after the chip is placed. Once vaccinated, you must wait 21 days before travelling.

Dogs do not require a tapeworm treatment to enter Italy, but it becomes relevant if you plan to move around Europe later on.

The essential travel document is the EU Health Certificate, issued by a USDA-accredited vet and then endorsed by the USDA. This certificate is valid for entry for 10 days, so planning the timing is crucial — especially for retirees organising a longer relocation trip.

On arrival, you must enter through an EU-approved airport. Italy’s major international airports qualify, making arrival straightforward for travellers moving from the USA.

Travelling With Your Pet vs Using a Transport Service

If you’re moving to Italy for retirement, you have two practical ways to bring your pet.

Many retirees choose to travel with their pets themselves. It’s usually the most affordable option, with costs typically between €200 and €500 depending on the airline. Some carriers allow small pets in the cabin, while larger animals must travel in the cargo hold. Airline rules differ widely, so it’s important to confirm weight limits, crate standards, and seasonal restrictions.

Other retirees prefer a professional pet transport company, especially if they want to simplify logistics. These services handle paperwork, USDA endorsement coordination, customs checks, and airport procedures — especially useful if you’re also managing visas, housing, or your new healthcare setup in Italy. The convenience comes at a higher cost, usually around $5,000 for transatlantic transport.

Practical Advice for a Smooth Move

If Italy will be your long-term home, a little extra preparation makes the journey far easier:

• Book flights early — airlines limit the number of pets per flight.

• If you already have an IATA-approved carrier, you can often reuse it.

• Request multiple quotes from pet transport companies, as prices and service levels vary significantly.

• Avoid weekend arrivals when possible, since customs staffing may be more limited.

Service and assistance animals follow slightly different rules, so retirees depending on them should confirm both airline policies and EU guidance before booking.

What to Do Once You Arrive in Italy

Once you land in Italy with your pet, there are a few practical steps to take to settle them in smoothly.

After clearing customs, the first thing to arrange is a visit to a local Italian veterinarian, who will check your pet’s microchip and issue an EU Pet Passport. This passport replaces the travel certificate you used to enter the country and makes future movement within the EU simple.

You should also register your dog with the Anagrafe Canina, Italy’s official dog registry, which is mandatory in all regions. Some regions require registration within a specific timeframe (often 60 days after arrival), so it’s best to do this early. Finally, if you are registering with the Italian healthcare system (ASL – Azienda Sanitaria Locale) as part of your move, your vet records will be linked to the local ASL office for future vaccinations, check-ups, and emergency care. This ensures your pet is fully recognised within the regional system and helps you access local services confidently throughout your retirement in Italy.

Final Thoughts

Bringing a pet from the USA to Italy is fully achievable for anyone planning a retirement relocation. With the right vaccinations, paperwork, and travel preparation, your pet can begin their Italian life alongside you — ready to explore coastal walks, hill-town streets, and peaceful countryside living.

If you’re planning to retire in Italy and want expert support — immigration, tax incentives, healthcare, housing, and even help with bringing your pet — we can guide you through every step of your move. Book an intro call today to discuss next steps.

FAQ: Bringing Pets to Italy from the USA

Can I bring my pet to Italy from the USA when retiring?

Yes. Americans retiring in Italy can bring pets as long as they meet EU entry requirements: microchip, valid rabies vaccination, and an EU Health Certificate endorsed by the USDA.

What documents do I need to move my dog or cat to Italy?

You need a 15-digit ISO microchip, a rabies vaccination done after the microchip, and an EU Health Certificate issued by a USDA-accredited vet within 10 days of travel and endorsed by the USDA.

Is there quarantine for pets entering Italy from the USA?

No. If your pet meets all EU requirements, Italy does not impose quarantine for dogs or cats arriving from the United States.

How much does it cost to bring a pet to Italy from the USA?

Flying with your pet usually costs €200–€500 depending on the airline. Using a professional pet transport company can cost around $5,000 or more for a full transatlantic service.

Can my pet travel in the cabin on flights to Italy?

Small pets often can, depending on airline weight and size limits. Larger pets must travel in an approved carrier in the cargo hold. Each airline sets its own rules.

Do dogs need tapeworm treatment to enter Italy?

Not for Italy itself. However, dogs need it if you plan to travel later to Finland, Ireland, or Malta.

How early should I start preparing to move my pet to Italy?

Start at least 6–8 weeks before your trip to allow time for the rabies vaccine waiting period, vet appointments, and USDA endorsement.

Can I get an EU Pet Passport once I move to Italy?

Yes. After arrival, an Italian veterinarian can issue an EU Pet Passport, making future travel within Europe easier.

Is there a limit to how many pets I can bring when moving to Italy?

The EU normally allows up to five pets per owner for non-commercial movement.