How do you bring a pet to Latvia in 2026?

Dogs, cats, and ferrets need electronic identification (microchip), valid rabies vaccination with the required waiting period, and the correct travel document. From another EU country, that is usually an EU pet passport issued by an authorised veterinarian. From many non-EU origins, PVD requires a veterinary health certificate, owner or authorised-person declarations, and for some risk countries a rabies antibody titration test. Young animals without valid rabies vaccination cannot use the simplified third-country pet route.

Non-commercial movement means the trip is not for sale or transfer of ownership. Pets should accompany the owner or a person with written authorisation. Customs perform documentary and identity checks at traveller entry points. Commercial movements and other species follow different veterinary-check rules: read the live PVD checklist for your origin before you book.

Register locally with a veterinarian, keep vaccine records, and follow Riga leash hours and forest-park etiquette: Dog-friendly Latvia. Mežaparks walks and Gauja day trips work once paperwork and the lease agree. Finish human stay documents in parallel: Paperwork after moving and Apply for a residence permit.